Telecommunications

Wireless Network Service

ITD offers a wireless network solution that simultaneously provides for 802.11abg modes of operation. This solution is more robust with improved and more consistent coverage than previous solutions that have been available. The service is currently installed within the capital tower, judicial wing and legislative wing. There is no fee associated with using this service at these locations. The new SSIDs are “STAGEnet-Guest” and STAGEnet-Member”. The “STAGEnet-Guest” provides unencrypted access to the Internet using a real external IP address. It is available without authentication to any customer with a compatible wireless device. The “STAGEnet-Member service provides authenticated and encrypted access to the internal network without the use of a VPN client. Use of STAGEnet member requires enrollment through ITD’s security team. This can be requested through the work request system. Instructions on how to configure your device to access this service is listed below. The cost for a single access point is $750 in addition to whatever wiring cost that may be required to enable the access point. For more information regarding a specific solution at your location, please contact one of our telecommunication business consultants listed below. The business consultants can assist with designing a solution that would be appropriate along with cost estimate for the site.

State Government
John Sheldon
jscheldon@nd.gov
701-328-2015

Education
Tim Hagen
thagen@nd.gov
701-328-4455

Local Governments
Bruce Fuerstenburg
bfuerste@nd.gov
701-328-2008

Instructions
Each device and operating system may require specific instructions on how to access the wireless network. To access the SSID “STAGEnet-Member” you will need to configure your device to provide for authenticated access. For HP laptops utilizing windows XP the following instructions are available.

Manual Configuration Instructions (12Mb rtf)

Batch Configuration (61Kb zip)

Group Policy

The group policy can be applied to an OU within active directory that will enable the configuration on devices within that OU.

For assistance with any of these solutions or other devices, please contact the ITD service desk for further assistance.

FAQ/Tips

Q. What can be done to improve the overall experience with using the wireless network?
A. If you are experiencing issues with trouble with connectivity, dropped connections or poor performance check with the hardware provider for a newer driver that may address the issues.

Q. How fast is the wireless network compared to the typical wired solution?
A. Although wireless technologies have improved the speed continues to be less then the average wired connection. For high network utilization activities, wireless may not be the appropriate solution.

Q. Do other wireless technologies interfere with the wireless network?
A. Many devices operate on the same or similar radio frequencies particularly with 802.11 b/g. Examples of such devices are cordless phone and microwave ovens. If you are experiencing trouble with connectivity, dropped connections or poor performance you may want to experiment with 802.11a as it may improve the overall experience. You should consult your hardware/software documentation on how to adjust the settings.

Q. What if I am still experiencing issues or have questions regarding the wireless solution?
A. If you are experience troubles or have questions on the service, please contact the ITD service desk for assistance.