PPS WiFi

What is it?
"PPS WiFi" is a growing network of centrally-managed wireless access points throughout the district. These access points are Cisco devices using global SSIDs (public name of a wireless network) that allow wireless users to log in with PPS credentials (email or network username/password) at any location currently using the "PPS WiFi" network.

What does it do?
It eliminates the need for long and often difficult to remember security keys and allows quick, easy access to wireless access points for staff and students with credentials they already use daily.

What will I see and what does it mean?
When you discover available networks with your laptop software, you could see these SSIDs:

• pps-wifi-alwayson
  This wireless network is always on and assigned to wireless access points that have been mounted in an optimal and secure location and are monitored for up time by IT.
• pps-wifi-guest
  This wireless network is always on and assigned to wireless access points that have been mounted in an optimal and secure location and are monitored for up time by IT. This network has very limited connectivity and is designed for short term use by school visitors.

Connect to the SSID that makes sense for your use.

How do I use it?
Just like at an airport or hotel, after you connect to the wireless access point and then launch a browser (Internet Explorer, etc.) you will see a “splash screen” identified as “Portland Public Schools WiFi”.

• pps-wifi-alwayson . . .
  use your PPS email username and password or student/classroom login.
• pps-wifi-guest . . .
  use the guest account provided at the building’s main office.

NOTE: Existing wireless access points (e.g., 3COM and Apple Airports) may not fall under the centrally-managed solution at this time. The Information Technology Infrastructure group will be contacting building administrators to discuss migration options.

Quick Reference Guide
You can open a Quick Reference Guide to take you through the WiFi connection process. Click the desired link below.