Guideline on Special Event Wi-Fi Access at APU

Purpose

This policy outlines the restrictions on creating new SSIDs for special events and provides guidance on using the existing Guest@APU network. The aim is to maintain network stability and security across Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU).

Scope

This policy applies to all event organizers, staff, and students planning to host events requiring Wi-Fi access at APU.

Policy Statement

To ensure optimal performance and security of the university’s wireless network, the creation of new SSIDs for specific events is prohibited. Additional SSID may create signal interferences as explained in the following section. Event organizers are encouraged to utilize the existing Guest@APU network, which is designed to manage a high volume of users and provide secure, temporary access for guests.

Here's an improved version of your explanation on why additional SSIDs should not be implemented:

Understanding the Impact of Additional SSIDs on Network Performance

SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers) are essentially the names you see when you search for Wi-Fi networks, like the ones we have at APU. While SSIDs help differentiate between different networks, each one adds its own layer of "network overhead." This includes the continuous broadcasting of signals (beacons) and the reception of signals (probes) from devices trying to connect.

These beacon and probe exchanges are not just minor traffic on our network. Studies estimate that beaconing and probing can consume between 7-10% of the network’s available airtime. This might seem small, but each SSID added multiplies this overhead, significantly affecting the network’s efficiency and performance.

So, what counts as "too many" SSIDs? While having multiple SSIDs can be useful for providing varied levels of access to different user groups and devices, it is crucial to keep their number manageable to minimize network strain. Ideally, to keep overhead low and maintain network performance, deploying no more than three SSIDs is recommended. Currently, APU already operates four SSIDs, which is above the optimal number and contributes to the limits on our network's capacity.

In summary, adding more SSIDs would further strain our Wi-Fi infrastructure, leading to poorer service for everyone connected. Therefore, we must carefully consider the necessity of each new SSID request to ensure our network remains robust and efficient.

Guidelines

1. Utilizing Guest@APU Network:

   • Event organizers should plan to use the Guest@APU network, which can accommodate a large number of connections and is optimized for guest usage.

   • Requests for Wi-Fi access should include the number of expected users and specific network requirements including network destination IP and its ports to ensure adequate support is available.

2. Request Submission:

   • Requests for accessing the Guest@APU network should be submitted to the IT Helpdesk at assist@apu.edu.my at least 14 working days prior to the event.

   • Please include details like the event date, duration, location on campus, and expected number of participants.

3. Assessment and Support:

   • The Network Management team will evaluate the existing Guest@APU network’s capacity to handle the anticipated load and make necessary adjustments.

4. Post-Event Feedback:

   • Organizers are recommended to provide feedback after the event to help improve future support and services. This includes any issues faced or suggestions for improvements.

Compliance

Compliance with this policy is mandatory. Any deviations or requests for exceptions must be approved by the Network Management team. Non-compliance may result in limited or no Wi-Fi access being available for the event.

For further information or to discuss specific needs, please contact the Network Operations team at assist@apu.edu.my.