Bicol University Captive Portal: An Implementation of an Internet Access Gateway for Bicol University’s Wide Area Network

Abstract

The output of this project was a design and implementation of a software to centrally manage the internet connection of Bicol University through authentication, authorization and auditing of its internet users. Using a desktop computer, the project achieved a simplified system for managing the internet access for administrators, employees, students and guests of the university.

Compared to expensive commercial Wi-Fi hot-spot portal software used in hotels, restaurants and internet cafes the BU Captive Portal is free. Through the use of free and open-source software the BU Captive Portal’s software cost is almost zero while delivering internet user authentication, authorization and auditing. It can be used to manage internet connection for hundreds up to tens of thousands of internet accounts. The system can be used in both wired and wireless network environment eliminating the need for cumbersome Wi-Fi authentication protocols. With its centralized monitoring and reporting module the university administrators can monitor who are using the internet facility. The data provided by the system can aid the university in deciding how much budget allocation is needed to improve its internet facility.

The Captive Portal can become a platform for other network services of the university such as instant messaging, personnel tracking, message board, document management, IP telephony, social media systems, learning managements system to name a few. The authentication module and database can be used to disseminate information and as a starting point for all the aforementioned network services.