Outdoor WiFi coverage is expanding to serve physical distancing needs

From: Network Infrastructure & Services

To enable physical distancing on campuses, Network Infrastructure & Services (NI&S, a unit of the Division of Information Technology) at Virginia Tech is increasing outdoor wireless availability in Blacksburg, Roanoke, and the Greater Washington D.C., metro area. Students, employees, and guests can connect using either the VirginiaTech (guest) or eduroam (student, employee) wireless networks. 

Everyone is encouraged to use these areas as appropriate to maintain physical distancing. Keep in mind that coverage areas shown are approximations and that WiFi performance may vary. Outdoor WiFi may also be found in areas not listed below. 

Blacksburg campus

The Outdoor Gathering Spaces and Approximate WiFi Ranges map captures the estimated coverage areas of outdoor WiFi installations on the Blacksburg campus. Areas currently include:

• Burchard Hall plaza*

• Burruss Hall area 

• Dietrick Hall patio*

• Hahn Garden area

• Newman Library 

• Owens Hall courtyard*

• Lower South Recreation Area Fields

• Squires Student Center patio*

• The Inn at Virginia Tech

• Lavery Hall patio*

• Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine

The following locations do not yet have WiFi but are scheduled to be added in the near future. The Outdoor Gathering Spaces and Approximate WiFi Ranges map will be updated as these are brought online.

• Ag Quad*

• Bishop-Favrao Hall lawn*

• Davidson Hall courtyard*

• Derring Hall terrace*

• Goodwin Hall patio*

• Moss Arts Center terrace*

• New Classroom Building patio*

• Peddrew-Yates Residence Hall patio and surrounding areas*

• Theatre 101 terrace*

Roanoke

• Virginia Tech School of Medicine (rooftop terrace, accessed from third floor)

Greater Washington D.C., metro area (eduroam only)

• Between 1021 and 1001 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA, in the brick courtyard

Agricultural Research and Extension Centers (eduroam only)

• Kentland Farms (Dairy Facility and Drone Landing Strip)

*Areas marked with an asterisk also offer some shelter and seating.

Remember to continue physical distancing practices and stay tuned as Virginia Tech continues to update its COVID-19 Overview page. 

For technical assistance, review 4Help’s information about connecting to wireless services. You may also contact 4Help online at 4Help.vt.edu, or by phone at 540-231-4357.