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California State University, Long BeachCalifornia State University, Long Beach
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Wireless Network Services / BeachNet

The following CSULB wireless networks are available to campus users.

  • Using BeachNet+ — Encrypted Wireless Network intended for students.
  • Using BeachNet — Unsecured Wireless Network intended for students.
  • Campus-Domain — Employees should consult with your department Technology Coordinator. Use of campus-domain is restricted to staff and faculty with accounts in the campus Active-Directory system.

The Wireless network supports most devices using IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g specifications.

Background of BeachNet

In the summer of 2006, Network Services installed close to 300 Wireless Access Points (WAPs) across campus inside nearly every building. The goal was to provide wireless connectivity in as close to 95% of the interior spaces as possible. We continue to seek additional funding to expand the CSU Long Beach high speed data network, which we call "BeachNet", and enhance our coverage.

BeachNet is how computers all over campus communicate with each other and the Internet to support the academic and administrative needs of the University. Network Services manages this network of Cisco switches and routers and over 23,000 data outlets. In some areas, BeachNet requires authentication before using any off campus web pages or other applications.

Using BeachNet+

BeachNet+ is a WPA2 wireless network offering encryption to protect your information from potential eavesdropping over the radio waves.  To connect to BeachNet+, you must have a valid nine digit CampusID along with your BeachID password.  Connecting to BeachNet+ is different than connecting to BeachNet because no web browser is required to authenticate.  You authenticate as you select the wireless network BeachNet+ from your device.  Instructions for Apple mobile devices, Windows computers, and Android mobile devices are provided below to assist with configuring your device for BeachNet+.

Note:Most wireless-configured devices purchased since January 2007 should be compatible with BeachNet+. The BeachNet service is also available to support guest access and older devices that may not be compatible with BeachNet+. Campus employees should contact your department Technical Coordinator for more assistance with compatibility issues. Students should contact the Technology Help Desk at 562-985-4959 or helpdesk@csulb.edu

Benefits of BeachNet+ (and unlike the regular BeachNet):

  • Data is protected by encryption as it passes from a computing device to a campus wireless access point.
  • Users can expect wireless speeds to be up to twice as fast as the BeachNet service.
  • No web browser is required to sign in.
  • Users will not be prompted to enter their BeachID credentials as often.  Most devices connected to BeachNet+ will automatically retain necessary credentials without prompting a user to re-enter them, even after periods of inactivity or roaming between locations across campus.

Using BeachNet

The campus BeachNet wireless network is unsecured, meaning anyone can connect to it, but only those with valid accounts can utilize it. If an off-campus web page is opened, the web browser will be redirected to the BeachNet sign-in page as shown below.

Screenshot of Beachnet Login

Registered users can log in by following the instructions on the web page above. If the user has not registered for an account yet, links are provided to the appropriate pages for registration. After a successful login, the web browser will be redirected back to the one originally requested.

Other Internet use, including e-mail clients such as Outlook or Lotus Notes will not work until the user logs in via the web.  E-mail clients and other kinds of applications cannot be redirected to login like this because of their technology limitations. The web is the best method for these kinds of logins.

Because the login-required side of BeachNet is a shared resource, users are cautioned that attempts to download very large files may be terminated at any time. Users may contact their department Technical Coordinators or Faculty Advisors to obtain advice on better methods of downloading large files for Academic or Administrative purposes. Recreational downloading of large files is not supported.

Wireless Security on BeachNet

Unless precautions are taken, such as using SSL-enabled websites ( i.e., MyCSULB ) when using the Internet, BeachNet is NOT an encrypted wireless network. All traffic is sent through the air on radio waves which can be overhead and captured by nearby users. There are no easy ways of detecting other "listeners", so caution and careful use of the Internet is strongly advised.

If your device supports it, you may use the BeachNet+ network to encrypt your wireless traffic.

Wired classrooms and Laptop Stations

Data outlets in wired classrooms and at computer lab laptop stations are automatically on BeachNet. Connect the laptop, then open a web browser to any web page off campus. The web browser will then be directed to the same login page used by wireless users.

Where to get help