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Guest Wireless Network Frequently Asked Questions

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8.0 - Updated on 2022-08-24 by Marcia Teckenbrock

7.0 - Updated on 2022-08-24 by Andrey Bobyshev

6.0 - Updated on 2021-02-18 by Carlos Salazar (Inactive)

5.0 - Updated on 2020-11-04 by Fang Wang

4.0 - Updated on 2020-11-12 by Marcia Teckenbrock

3.0 - Updated on 2020-11-12 by Marcia Teckenbrock

2.0 - Updated on 2020-11-12 by Marcia Teckenbrock

1.0 - Authored on 2013-10-02 by Donald Foss (Inactive)

Intended for

Fermilab guests and visitors who want to use the Fermilab guest wireless network 


Scenario/Use case:

This article provides answers to common questions regarding the Fermilab guest wireless network.


Instructions:

What is the guest wireless network?

The guest wireless network provides laboratory guests and visitors access to the wireless network while on campus for limited use for things such as web browsing, email and basic communications needs.

How do I access the guest wireless network?

To use the wireless network, you must register your device.

How long do I have access to the guest wireless network once registered?

After submitting the registration form, you must log in to connect to the guest network. At this point you will be granted temporary access for 4 hours.  You will then receive an email with the subject "CONFIRMATION REQUIRED" to confirm your registration.  Once your registration is confirmed you will be granted access for 1 week.

Is there a limit to the number of devices I can use on the guest wireless network?

No.

Why are some websites blocked on the guest wireless network?

Access to web sites that meet certain criteria are blocked to help prevent virus infections and to assist users in following the Fermilab Policy on Computing.

Why are some applications (such as peer-to-peer file sharing) blocked on the guest wireless network?

The network is intended for limited use to provide web browsing, email and basic communications needs for guests and visitors while they are on campus.  It is not intended to provide other Internet-based services such as transfers of audio files, video files and large datasets.

There is a website or an application that is blocked on the guest wireless network that I believe should be allowed.  Who should I contact?

First, please remember that the network is intended for limited use by campus guests and visitors only. If you are unable to perform your work using the network, you should consider using the main “fgz” wireless network from a registered machine. Otherwise, you can direct concerns regarding the security policy of the guest wireless network to the service desk at https://servicedesk.fnal.gov or 630-840-2345. 

I work at Fermilab.  Should I use the guest wireless network for any of my devices?

Any Fermilab device which is needed for production work should be connected on FGZ.  Cell phones or other mobile devices which only need email and internet should use the guest network.

Can I use the Fermilab Virtual Private Network (VPN) Service from the guest wireless network to access internal Fermilab resources?

Yes, but you do not need to.  Since you have a Fermilab VPN account, you do not need to use the guest network.  Instead please register your device and use the main “fgz” wireless network.

What is the IP address range of the guest wireless network?

The IP address range is outside of the normal Fermilab IP block. This address range is subject to change, so please do not attempt to hard code it into any device or application.

What are the risks with using the guest wireless network?

Clients who use the guest wireless network run similar risks as when using other wireless networks such as those at restaurants, hotels, and airports. This network is segmented from the other Fermilab networks.  As such, lab-wide security protections, such as managed antivirus services, are not provided.  We encourage guests using this network to ensure that their antivirus protection, operating systems and other software, are up to date.  Guests who utilize this network do so at their own risk.


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