Wireless Access to the USC Network
There are two wireless networks to choose from at USC: USC Wireless and USC Wireless Plus.
USC Wireless
USC Wireless is an open wireless network. Guest users can connect without entering a USC username and password. Because USC wireless is an open network, ITS recommends using USC’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) software to protect personal information when using this network. For more information, see www.usc.edu/its/vpn.
Users connecting to the USC Wireless network are required to acknowledge the university's terms of use once a week. USC faculty, students, and staff have the option to register their computer in order to avoid being required to acknowledge the university's terms of use once a week. See the information and instructions on the Computer Registration Overview page.
USC Wireless Plus
USC Wireless Plus is a faster, encrypted wireless network, available only to USC account holders. Before connecting to the USC Wireless Plus network for the first time, users will need to register their computer. For information on registering computers on the USC network, see the Computer Registration Overview page. Users may also need to configure their wireless device before connecting to the USC Wireless Plus network.
Connecting to USC Wireless and USC Wireless Plus
Instructions will vary by operating system and version. For instructions, please locate your operating system in the menu on the right-hand side of this page.
Computing Safety
ITS recommends that all users of the wireless network maintain a firewall, as well as antivirus and antispyware software. Links to free firewall and antivirus software, along with additional information, are available on the ITS Security page.
USC Wireless
Users connecting to the USC Wireless network should be aware that USC Wireless is an open network. Traffic that passes through it is not encrypted, and users should expect no privacy on this network. Your access to and use of the USC wireless network is at your sole risk.
USC faculty, students, and staff should log in to USC Wireless through the VPN, which is available to the USC community for free download.
If you wish to improve the security of your communications, consider using USC Wireless Plus. Additionally, ITS recommends (1) visiting only secure Web pages—those whose URL begins with https//; (2) using USC Web Mail, which provides encryption for you; (3) encrypting any confidential or sensitive information; and (4) logging in to UNIX shell accounts using SSH or Kerberized Telnet (rather than basic Telnet). If you are unfamiliar with these security measures, please contact the ITS Customer Support Center at 213-740-5555.
Guest Wireless Access to the USC Network
The USC Wireless network offers open access to all users in most areas on both the University Park and Health Sciences campuses. It is not necessary to register guests to use the USC Wireless network.
Getting Help
If you have problems or questions related to your connection to the USC wireless network, contact the ITS Customer Support Center at 213-740-5555 or consult@usc.edu.Last updated:
May 04, 2011