Stout Local Area Wireless

Network Proposal

Steve Krueger
Capella University
TS7000 Technical Communications
Professor Daniel Hirsshorn

April 25, 2003

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Table of Contents Page

Executive Summary………………………………………………………. 5

Introduction……………………………………………………………….. 6

Wireless Benefits…………………………………………………………. 8
Mobility
Flexibility
Scalability
Reduced Costs
Interoperability

Wireless Drawbacks……………………………………………………… 9
Connection Speed/Rate
Range
Interference
Acquisition Costs
Security

IEEE Wireless LAN Standards…………………………………………… 10

802.11b
802.11a
802.11g

Security Measures………………………………………………………… 11
Service Set Identifier
Authentication

Coverage Area……………………………………………………………. 12
Building Coverage
Outside Coverage

Project SLAWN Total Estimated Costs………………………………….. 14

Conclusion………………………………………………………………... 16

References………………………………………………………………… 21
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List of Figures
Figure 1. Stage One Costs………………………………………………. 15

Figure 2. Stage Two Costs………………………………………………. 16

Figure 3. Overall Costs…………………………………………………. 16

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List of Tables
Table 1. Question One Results…………………………………………… 7

Table 2. Question Two Results…………………………………………... 7

Table 3. IEEE Standards…………………………………………………. 11

Table 4. Access Point Coverage………………………………………….. 13

Table 5. Cisco Bridge Antenna…………………………………………… 14

Table 6. Timetable………………………………………………………... 15
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Executive Summary
This proposal recommends the implementation of Project SLAWN (Stout Local Area
Wireless Network) at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. The following information and
recommendations are necessary for the university to stay on the cutting-edge of today’s
campus technology.

Problem

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is known to many, as one of the better technical

universities in the Midwest. UW-Stout offers excellent programs in telecommunications,
computer science, information technology education, and engineering (software,
manufacturing, packaging, civil, electrical, and chemical engineering).

In order to maintain this reputation, it is imperative that UW-Stout looks to implement a

campus wide wireless network. Wireless technology has come to the forefront of
computer technology in the last few years. Many universities have or are in the process
of installing this new technology university wide. Universities like Minnesota-
Crookston, Winona State, and Northern Michigan have been the Midwest leaders in
campus wireless technology.

UW-Stout must look to stay competitive, especially with those in the UW system.
Currently, there are five other institutions in the UW system looking to introduce some
level of wireless access in the next few years. These universities are; Stevens Point,
LaCrosse, Whitewater, Oshkosh, and Eau Claire.

Advantages

ƒ Mobility
ƒ Scalability
ƒ Reduced Long-term Costs
ƒ Easy Installation
ƒ Flexibility
ƒ Interoperable
ƒ Increased Enrollment
ƒ Higher Student Retention Rates
ƒ Reputation

Project SLAWN

The implementation of Project SLAWN will be completed in three stages. The first stage
will take place from May through July of 2003, where all thirteen buildings will be
surveyed and 250 access points will be installed. The second stage will be completed
with the remainder of the summer through September. The bridge antenna locations will
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also be surveyed and installed. The final stage will completed during the remainder of
the fall 2003 semester. Network configuration, security measures, and test analysis will
take place during the final stage. Bugs and other problems will also be addressed during
the final stage of implementation

Infrastructure requirements will be very limited. Project SLAWN is an extension of the

existing Wired LAN. The Wired LAN will exist as the backbone of the whole entire
network. UW-Stout has built a very strong Wired LAN and, therefore, does not require
many adjustments or additions. A few new ports to handle the increased number of users
that will be constantly connected may be needed. This is a minimal expenditure and will
not be decided until networking tests are performed.

Cisco wireless technology products will be used in Project SLAWN. A total of 250
access points and eight bridge antennas will be required to give the UW-Stout campus the
necessary campus-wide coverage. The access points will be installed in every classroom
in all nine academic buildings. They will also be installed in the Student Center, Library
Center, M. Price Commons, and the Athletic Department, including the Johnson
Fieldhouse and Multi-purpose Gym.

Introduction
Who wants to surf the web, check e-mail, and do other network-dependent work without
being confined to a computer lab or desk? Wireless devices from hand-held assistants
like Palm Pilots, to laptop computers, to cellular phones with Internet capabilities have
exploded in popularity in the last few years.

Over 50 universities across the United States currently have implemented wireless
networks and require a laptop computer for new students enrolled in their programs. In
the Midwest, the University of Minnesota-Crookston, Winona State University, and
Northern Michigan University are some of the institutions that have paved the way in
campus wireless technology. The impacts that this requirement has had on these
universities include:

ƒ increased freshman to sophomore retention of 89-94 percent (Wake Forest

University);

ƒ increased applications for admission (University of Minnesota-Crookston,

Winona State University, and Northern Michigan University);

ƒ favorable parent satisfaction levels (Northern Michigan University); and

ƒ increased instructional effectiveness and fostered a responsive learning

environment (Valley City State University).
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Wireless technology has gotten so popular at universities across the nation that it has
moved into the mainstream and prospective students now look for it as criteria for
enrollment.

Campus Survey

In a recent survey, conducted by the students of Professor Bob Couhlson’s network

management 2003 fall semester course, 1500 random students and 75 faculty members
from nine different programs were asked if they would be in favor of a campus wide
wireless network. The three survey questions and their respective results are as follows:

1. Would you support a university wide wireless network project, where students
and faculty could access the Internet almost anywhere on campus?

Table 1 Question One Results

Yes No Neutral
Students (1170) 78% 13% 9%
Faculty (75) 68% 11% 21%
Totals (1575) 77.5% 12.5% 10%

2. If you answered yes to the first question please also answer this one, otherwise
leave it blank, faculty included. Would you still support a university wide
wireless network project if most existing students and all new incoming students
were required to rent a laptop computer and buy a network interface card? (Cost
would be roughly $70 a semester which would be included in tuition costs)

Table 2 Question Two Results

Yes No Neutral
Students (1170 of 1500) 95% 2% 3%
Faculty (51 of 75) 100% 0% 0%
Totals (1221 of 1575) 95.5% 2% 3%

These results show a vast majority of UW-Stout students and faculty that would support,
conceptually and financially, the implementation of a campus wide wireless local area
network. Receiving support from faculty and the student body is a very much needed for
the success of this project.

The following information will explain the benefits and drawbacks of wireless
technology, wireless standards, security measures, and cost analysis.
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Wireless Benefits
Mobility

This is probably the biggest benefit of Wireless LANs. Indoor wireless solutions offer
roaming ranges from 100 to several hundred feet from an access point. Outdoor wireless
systems offer ranges up to 15 miles. WLANs provide users with access to real-time
information anywhere on campus. This mobility supports productivity and service
opportunities not possible with wired networks.

Flexibility

Students and faculty can connect wherever they need access rather than in designated
computer laboratories. This can also create flexible classroom layouts. No more large
immobile desks with those large desktop computers and all their accessories. Managing
time becomes easier because there is no need to set a side time to travel to and from
computer laboratories.

Scalability

The Wireless LAN can grow as needed. It’s very easy to install an access point or
outside antenna in order to create better reception in possible dead zones or to expand the
coverage area. No cable to lay and no need to predetermine where and how many data
ports to install.

Reduced Costs

Over the long run, Wireless LANs cost less to own and maintain versus Wired LANs.
Less is spent when offices or classrooms are reconfigured or as the campus grows. While
the initial acquisition costs required for Wireless LAN hardware are higher than the cost
of a Wired LAN, overall installation expenses, maintenance costs, and life-cycle costs
can be significantly lower. Costs will be broken down and listed in more detail later in
the report.

Interoperability

Students and faculty can mix WLAN products from multiple vendors. Wireless network
manufacturers have products designed to the IEEE 802.11 industry standard. This
ensures that wireless network solutions will function with other wireless-standard
compliant equipment within the network. We will not be tied down by just one vendor
and their respective products once the project begins and after it is completed.
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Wireless Drawbacks
Connection Speed/Rate

Wireless devices are almost always slower than the same network using a wired
configuration. Wired LANs can transfer data at a rate up to 100Mbps, while Wireless
LANs usually transfer data at a rate up to 11Mbps depending on the IEEE 802.11
standard being used. But Wireless LANs are fast enough to run almost all applications.

Range

Wireless LANs can transmit up to 300 feet without losing connection but this distance
reduces every time the data rate increases. The higher the data rate the shorter the range.
High data rates are usually caused from the number of users accessing a single access
point. Range can be increased though with the installation of more access points.

Interference

Natural and unnatural elements can cause interference problems with a Wireless LAN.
Interference can be caused from cordless or cellular phones and microwaves that operate
on the same frequency band. These frequencies are unlicensed so a lot of people are
looking to develop devices within this range. Other wireless access points, outside the
campus wide network, can also use the same band.

Natural elements like concrete blocks, steel stop signals, and water can create a lot of
interference to a WLAN. The radio signals can not move through concrete block like that
of a dormitory. These signals can also be stopped or scrambled from some metal objects.
Some materials found in ductwork and even stained glass windows can present problems
because they contain lead. Water also stops radio signals. Since humans are about 60
percent water, a high population density can affect a signal.

Acquisition Costs

Wireless technology is still relatively new and prices have just recently started to decline
enough to be considered cost effective to public institutions. Even though prices have
declined considerably in the past few years, the acquisition costs of an entire wireless
network are approximately 10-15 percent greater than the same wired network. The extra
acquisition costs are quickly recovered though, in installation labor costs.

Security

A Wireless LANs lack of wires is also an advantage for hackers, theoretically allowing
them to gain access to user credentials simply by intercepting the WLAN broadcast
waves. There is no need to plug in or log on to anything in order to gain access. Even
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though past WLAN security schemes have proven that they are easy to crack, there are
new and improved security measures that are presently entering the market.
Authentication processes that require users to authenticate periodically are one security
measure that may prove to drastically reduce hack-ins.

IEEE Wireless LAN Standards

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE), 802.11 specifications
are wireless standards that specify an “over-the-air” interface between a wireless client
and a base station or access point. The 802.11 standards can be compared to the IEEE
802.3 standard for Ethernet for wired LANs. The IEEE 802.11 specifications address the
Physical (PHY) and Media Access Control (MAC) layers and are tailored to resolve
compatibility issues between manufacturers of Wireless LAN equipment.

There are currently three versions of IEEE 802.11x technology; 802.11b, 802.11a, and
802.11g. Millions of people and businesses have installed 802.11b networks, also
known as Wi-Fi networks, in the past couple years. The two newer versions, 802.11a and
802.11g, have some advantages over 802.11b but the high cost may not be worth it.

IEEE 802.11b

This is the most popular standard for wireless networking which runs on three channels in
2.4GHz band, an unlicensed spectrum. It shares the spectrum with other 2.4GHz
technology like cordless phones and microwave ovens. It transfers data up to 11
megabits per second per channel, at distances up to 300 feet. See Appendix B

IEEE 802.11a

This version runs on 12 channels in a 5GHz spectrum. Running in a 5GHz spectrum

reduces a lot of the interference issues of 802.11b but the rage at which data can transfer
reduces greatly, from around 300 feet to somewhere around 100-150 feet. But within the
150 feet, this version transfers data up to five times faster than “b”. See Appendix A

IEEE 802.11g

This last version has just introduced itself to the wireless networking market. This
version is a compliment of both “b” and “a”. 802.11g runs on three channels in a 2.4GHz
spectrum but transfers data up to five times faster than “b”. It also is more secure and it
interoperable with “b”. See Appendix C
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Table 3 IEEE Standards

Spectrum Number Data Transfer Security Level Interoperable Estimated

Band Channels Rate Cost/Per
802.11b 2.4GHz 3 11MBps Low Yes $400
802.11a 5GHz 12 56MBps Medium No $575
802.11g 2.4GHz 3 56MBps Medium Yes $650

Recommendation

Project SLAWN will utilize the IEEE 802.11g standards. While “a” and “b” both have
their own unique advantages, “g” is the best of both. There are two main disadvantages
of 802.11a standards when compared to the standards of “g.”

ƒ not interoperable, limits flexibility and scalability

ƒ reduced coverage area, 5GHz band reduces transmission distance

Although 802.11b has a lower cost per unit than “g”, the disadvantages of “b” are not
worth the difference in price. 802.11g has also just been released and its costs will
decline, as all new technology does.

ƒ low data transfer rate, some applications can not run on only 11MBps (which
usually only runs at 3-4MBps)
ƒ low security level, security issues were not been addressed as well in this first
version, “g” contains added layers of security

Security Measures
Wireless LANs are known to lack the necessary enterprise level security tools that a
Wired LAN possesses. But there are still adequate security measures included in the
standards which can be employed to help make a wireless network more secure.

Service Set Identifier

The Service Set Identifier (SSID) is meant to differentiate networks from one another.
Initially, access points come set to a default depending on the manufacturer. Since these
default settings are so well known, it makes it very easy to detect the network. These
settings must be changed from their default. But a common mistake is setting the SSID
to something meaningful such as the access point’s location or department. This makes it
too easy to guess and obtain access. The SSID for Project SLAWN will be given a strong
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password which is long, non-meaningful strings of characters including letters, numbers,

and also symbols.

This is a first level security measure and it does not offer much protection to who gains
access to the network, but taking this measurement can make it harder for intruders to
know what exactly they are looking at.

Authentication

802.11x networks use two authentication methods: open-system authentication and

shared-key authentication. In both cases, the client must begin a dialogue before
communication with the access point begins. Using open authentication allows anyone to
communicate with the access point, no real authentication is required. Using shared-key
authentication allows only those with the correct password to gain access to the network.
Shared-key authentication adds an extra layer of keyed security. These passwords are
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encrypted with a secret 40 bit number.

Project SLAWN will use the shared-key authentication method, allowing only those with
a correct user name and password to gain access to the network. The network security of
Project SLAWN will be a continuous effort though. Updating and replacing ineffective
wireless technology, in order to keep our network safe.

Coverage Area
Buildings & Classrooms

The Cisco Aironet 1200 Series Access Point will be used for this project. These access
points will be placed on the ceilings of hallways, classrooms, and study lounges in order,
to maximize connection rates.

There are twenty-two buildings on campus but only about half of them will be able to be
part of Project SLAWN. All dormitories will keep their wired Ethernet connections
because of interference problems. The concrete walls of the dormitories do not promote
good reception with a wireless network and there are too many rooms to install an access
point into each and every one. Our focus is classrooms, study lounges, and outside areas
with high density student and faculty populations.

There are thirteen buildings that require wireless access. The goal is for every classroom
and study lounge in these thirteen buildings be able to access the wireless network. The
following table gives a breakdown for each building and what is required to achieve this
goal.
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Table 4 Access Point Coverage

Number Number of Number of Total # Est. Total

of Floors Classrooms Study Areas of APs Cost of APs
Bowman Hall 4 24 4 28 $18,200
Harvey Hall 5 35 5 40 $26,000
Millennium Hall 3 24 2 26 $16,900
Fryklund Hall 2 15 3 18 $11,700
McCalmont Hall 3 22 4 26 $16,900
Jarvis Hall 2 16 2 18 $11,700
Micheels Hall 2 14 3 17 $11,050
Applied Arts 2 10 3 13 $8,450
1
Library Center 4 0 See Below 17 $11,050
Home Economics 3 18 4 22 $14,300
Student Center 2 0 See Below2 10 $6,500
M.Price Commons 2 0 3 3 $1,950
3
Athletics Dept. 2 7 See Below 13 $8,450
Totals 36 196 33 250 $162,500
1) The Library Center does not contain any rooms. Each floor of the library is wide
open space, with limited obstacles and walls. In order to make the whole building
wireless, there will only need to be 16 access points installed. The top three
floors will have four access points installed on each but the first floor will need
five access points to be installed because of high density student activity.
2) The Memorial Student Center contains two cafeterias (Terrace and Pawn Shop),
five conference rooms, and two study areas. There will be a total of ten access
points installed; one in each conference room, one in each study area, two in the
Terrace and one in the Pawn Shop. It is difficult to estimate the number of
students that will use the network in the Terrace at this time; there may be a need
for an additional access point in this area.
3) The Athletics Department will also have building wide access. In order to
accomplish this, there will be 13 access points required. They will be installed in
these areas; one in each of the seven classrooms, one in Johnson Fieldhouse, two
in the Multi-purpose Gym, and three in the Great Hall.

Outside

Besides access inside buildings and their classrooms, there is a need for access outside as
well. Eight bridge antennas are required to cover the entire campus in order to maintain
the level of wireless transfer rates needed at 11MBps. These antennas will be placed at
locations that will maximize their transmission range and will, in effect, maximize data
transfer rates and keep students connected at the necessary rates.

The Cisco Aironet Bridge Antennas, model AIR-ANT2506, will be used. The table
below gives the features of this model antenna.
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Table 5 Cisco Bridge Antenna

Cisco Aironet Bridge AIR-

ANT2506
Description Omni-directional mast mounted unit
Application Outdoor medium-range point to multi-
point
Gain 12 dBi
Approx. Range at 5000 feet
2MBps1
Approx. Range at 1580 feet
1
11MBps
Cable Length 3 feet
Weight 6 ounces
Est. Cost per Unit $750
1. The approximate ranges above are based on the use of 50 foot low-loss
cable and the same type of antenna at each end of the connection under
ideal outdoor conditions.

The eight bridge antennas will be placed on the roofs, for maximum range, of the eight
following structures: See Appendix D

ƒ Don and Nora William Stadium

ƒ Johnson Fieldhouse
ƒ South Hall
ƒ Micheels Hall
ƒ North Hall
ƒ Library Center
ƒ Millennium Hall
ƒ Harvey Hall

Project SLAWN Total Estimated Costs

The implementation of Project SLAWN will be completed in three stages. The first stage
will take place from May through July of 2003, where all thirteen buildings will be
surveyed and 250 access points will be installed. The second stage will be completed
with the remainder of the summer through September. The bridge antenna locations will
also be surveyed and installed. The final stage will completed during the remainder of
the fall 2003 semester. Network configuration, security measures, and test analysis will
take place during the final stage. Bugs and other problems will also be addressed during
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the final stage of implementation. The following table illustrates the schedule of events
or tasks that will take place for the successful completion of this project.

Table 6 Timetable

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

May - July August - September October -
February
Survey Buildings
Install Access Points
Survey Antenna Locations
Install Bridge Antennas
Network Configuration
Network Analysis
End-User Analysis
Infrastructure Additions1
1. Possible infrastructure additions or upgrade depend on end-user analysis and may
not be necessary for implementation of Project SLAWN.

The following tables breakdown the total costs for each stage along with the overall cost
for Project SLAWN.

Figure 1 Stage One Costs

May – July of 2003

ƒ Survey 13 buildings @ $5,000 ea $ 65,000

ƒ Purchase 250 access points @ $650 ea 162,500
ƒ Install 250 access points @ $900 ea1 225,000

TOTAL COST $ 452,500

1. Estimated installation costs include electrical power, wired network drop,

and labor costs
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Figure 2 Stage Two Costs

August – September of 2003

ƒ Survey 8 antenna locations @ $1,500 ea $ 12,000

ƒ Purchase 8 bridge antennas @ $750 ea 6,000
ƒ Install 8 bridge antennas @ $1,000 ea1 8,000

TOTAL COST $ 26,000

1. Estimated installation costs include electrical power, wired network drop,

and labor costs

Figure 3 Overall Costs

Total Costs

ƒ Stage 1: Access Points $ 452,500

ƒ Stage 2: Bridge Antennas 26,000
ƒ Operations Staff @ 40K each per year1 120,000

TOTAL COST $ 598,500

1. Managing the installation would be done by the operations staff members

Conclusion
The approval and implementation of Project SLAWN is a must for the University of
Wisconsin-Stout. It will keep UW-Stout competitive among the top technical institutions
in the Midwest, while giving the students and faculty higher standards for education.

The project will cost just over a half a million dollars and can be fully operational in just
under ten months. Wireless access would be available campus wide, from Harvey Hall to
the Student Center to Johnson Fieldhouse. Thirteen buildings would have access
throughout, including all classrooms, study lounges, and offices.

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has a responsibility to its students, to offer the best
educational environment available and to uphold its great reputation. I recommend that
Project SLAWN is approved and implemented, here at UW-Stout.
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Appendix A

Standard 802.11a

Building: Bowman Hall 1st Floor

Within the colors gives signal power

• Red – 54Mbps/-50dBi
• Yellow – 24Mbps/-70dBi
• Green – 6Mbps/-90dBi

Note: The green border is beyond what

Stout guarantees but there are enough
signals to send and receive packets

Antenna Settings for 802.11a

• Signal strength setting is maxed at 40mW

• The Cisco 1200 access points operate with fixed antennas with a 6-dBi gain
• Antenna is setup for omni coverage
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Appendix B

Standard 802.11b

Building: Bowman Hall 1st Floor

Within the colors gives signal power:

• Red – 11Mbps/-50dBi
• Yellow – 5.5Mbps/-70dBi
• Green – 1Mbps/-90dBi

Note: The green border is beyond what

UW-Stout guarantees but there are
enough signals to send and receive
packets.

Antenna Settings for 802.11b

• Signal strength setting is maxed at 100mW

• The Cisco 1200 access point above is operating with a 2.2-dBi gain antenna
• Antenna is setup for omni coverage
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Appendix C

Standard 802.11g

Building: Bowman Hall 1st Floor

Within the colors gives signal power:

• Red – 54Mbps/-50dBi
• Yellow – 24Mbps/-70dBi
• Green – 6Mbps/-90dBi

Note: The green border is beyond what

UW-Stout guarantees but there are
enough signals to send and receive
packets.

Antenna Settings for 802.11g

• Signal strength setting is maxed at 100mW

• The Cisco 1200 access point above is operating with a 2.2-dBi gain antenna
• Antenna is setup for omni coverage
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Appendix D
Project SLAWN Proposed Coverage Area
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 22

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