Wi-Fi IoT Device Guidance

Wi-Fi and Device-to-Device Connections

Wi-Fi technology provides high-speed Internet access for mobile devices such as phones, laptops, tablets, and many others. Wi-Fi can also be used for connections between two devices on the same network. Typically, Wi-Fi connections between two devices fall into two categories:

1. Wi-Fi connections between two devices located on the network also used for Internet (e.g. eduroam or beachnet+). This is not permitted on our campus in order to protect against security threats spreading across the campus network if one device becomes infected. Therefore, Wi-Fi capable devices used on our campus network (e.g. printers) must use a hard-wired data connection instead.
2. Wi-Fi connections used to configure, manage, or administer automation devices such as lighting, thermostats, security systems, and others that can be called “Internet of Things” (IoT). The Division of IT (DoIT) recognizes there is an increase academic and administrative use of IoT devices.

Bluetooth Recommended for Configuration of IoT

Bluetooth is a similar wireless technology which has security and operational advantages over Wi-Fi for device-to-device connections. DoIT recommends that Bluetooth be used instead of Wi-Fi where possible manage IoT needs.

Guidance If Bluetooth is Not Available

If Bluetooth is not available for device-to-device wireless connections, the following guidelines are offered:

• The department Technical Coordinator can open a TeamDynamix ticket with DoIT Network Services Group (NSG) describing the business needs for using Wi-Fi between two wireless devices. NSG will work with the Technical Coordinator to develop and deploy a solution that is secure and meets the business need.
• The solution will meet the following service and security parameters:
  • Devices that offer Wi-Fi networks must not also use a Wired Ethernet connection on the campus network. This is to prevent the access of unauthenticated devices onto the campus network.
  • Wi-Fi networks are secured with a strong password that is changed annually.
  • Devices must be turned off when not in use.
  • Wi-Fi signals can cause interference. If this occurs, DoIT reserves the right to ensure that campus Wi-Fi for student/faculty/staff access takes precedence over IoT devices.
• The department Technical Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the parameters are followed and adhered to.
• If DoIT finds any of the parameters are not being followed, NSG will take immediate action to disable network access or otherwise prohibit the use of the equipment.