Should I connect to HOTSPOT or MCLANET?

From TechHelp - MCLA's Technology Help Center

MCLA's wireless network is designed to be compatible with a wide variety of wireless devices, old and new. Read this guide to determine the best configuration for your wireless laptop or pda.

If after reading this guide, you're still not sure what your computer's wireless is capable of, please visit the HelpDesk and the staff will show you the best configuration for your hardware.

Tip #1. MCLANET is better than HOTSPOT

If your computer can connect to mclanet, use it! Here's what you need to connect to mclanet

• Windows XP (with SP1 or better) or Mac OS 10.3
• A recent wireless card, or an updated driver that supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and the Temporal Key Interchange Protocol (TKIP).

If you have purchased your laptop through the MCLA/Dell laptop program, it comes with the appropriate software patches and drivers to connect to the mclanet network.

To verify that your computer can connect to the mclanet network. Try the instructions below for connecting. If menu items are missing as you follow through the instructions, it is likely that your wireless card needs a newer driver, or the computer needs a software patch. In these cases, please bring your computer to the HelpDesk for support.

How do I connect to the MCLANET wireless network?

In some cases, no amount of patching or updating will allow your computer to connect to mclanet. In these cases, you should follow the instructions below to connect to hotspot.

How do I connect to the HOTSPOT wireless network?

Tip #2. 802.11a is better than 802.11b or 802.11g.

The majority of wireless laptops are capable of only the 802.11b/g standard. These devices use a technology that isn't nearly as reliable as 802.11a devices.

This may seem like alphabet soup, but when you're buying a new wireless device, you should look for support of all the wireless standards, A, B and G.

If you have purchased your laptop through the MCLA/Dell laptop program, it supports all of these wireless standards. The instructions found at the link below will help you configure your D610 to work with 802.11a.

How do I configure my laptop for 802.11a wireless?

If you do not have the Dell D610 the instructions aboe may still be helpful, but your configuration options may vary. If you need help, please contact the HelpDesk to find out if your wireless device supports 802.11a and how to configure your card to take advantage of it.