Aruba Information
What will be changing?
There will be two major changes that users will notice. The first is that Information Services will be replacing Cisco Clean Access with a new program called Aruba. The primary functions of these programs are similar in that they both ensure that computers are up to date and virus free before being allowed on the network, but Aruba has some distinct advantages. For example, people will only have to login once and then will remain logged in. Also, the new system will require Apple and Linux machines to install Aruba thus further ensuring the security and integrity of the school's network.
The second change is that there will be changes to the names of some of the wireless networks. "LU-Guest" will remain the same in both name and function. “LU_Wireless” will be renamed “Liberty” but still function the same. And there will be a new network called “LU-HiSpeed”, which will be accessible only by students and staff who have 802.11n (Wireless-N) wireless cards in their computers.
What will stay the same?
For at least the first portion of the Spring semester, Clean Access will still be used on hard-wired connections in the halls while we work to ensure that Aruba works properly over wireless. Eventually Clean Access will be removed from the hard wired network as well.
Will I be able to take advantage of the “LU-HiSpeed” network?
In order to use the new “LU-HiSpeed” network you will need to have a wireless card that supports Wireless-N. If your computer is new, you may have one of these already. If not, you will need to purchase one. Information Services is currently working with a vendor to make these cards available to the student body at a reasonable cost (an announcement will be made later when this is finalized).
The LU-HiSpeed network will also only be available in certain areas since Information Services is still in the process of installing and configuring Aruba. At the beginning of the semester, the new wireless networks will be available in all halls, the Teacher Education Hall, and some parts of North Campus. During the Spring semester, the system will be gradually deployed to DeMoss and other academic areas until it is available to the entire campus.
Will I see faster speeds?
The speed of your internet browsing and downloading depends on a lot of factors. Some of them are under the control of Information Services and some are not. While the changes to LU’s network will allow higher speeds, we cannot guarantee that any specific user will experience faster downloads, browsing speeds, etc. because of differences in hardware, network specifications, what users use the network for, etc.
These changes should offer better speeds for most users because Information Services is installing more wireless access points on campus. This will help solve many of the congestion-related problems that some users have experienced in the past.
Will I be able to watch IPTV over Wireless?
The Wireless-N standard allows for much faster transfer speeds on campus, so Information Services is working to make IPTV available over wireless. There are problems that are preventing us from being able to do this right now, but we will be making it available in the near future as soon as these issues are resolved.
What about video game systems?
Video game systems that use the network will need to be registered each semester. Click here to register a video game device.
What should I do if I can’t get online?
The best thing to do will be to call the HelpDesk at 592-7800 or 866-447-2869 while you are at your computer and have time to troubleshoot the problem. Some issues that may arise with Aruba can be fixed remotely, so the HelpDesk will work with you to determine if your issue can be fixed over-the-phone or if you will need to bring your computer in.
Will my Antivirus software be allowed?
The new Aruba system will allow Antivirus software created by the following companies:
• AVG
• McAfee
• Microsoft
• Norton/Symantec
However, we only offer support for Microsoft Forefront.
Click here to download a free copy of Microsoft Forefront from Liberty University.
Where can I get more information?
If you would like more information about these changes, you can call the HelpDesk. The IT Customer Support webpage (http://www.liberty.edu/customersupport) also contains articles about Wireless-N, Aruba, and more. You can also visit our site to receive Twitter updates about the status of LU’s network!
For updates specifically regarding Aruba, visit this page. Information Services will be updating this page as information changes, so check back for additional information if the answer to your question is not here right now.
