Wi-Fi is so ubiquitous and self-sustaining that it’s hard to know what to do or where to start when it isn’t. The following tips and resources are tailored for those who live in residence halls so that you can avoid or troubleshoot issues with campus Wi-Fi.
Registration: first step for new devices
First things first. You need to register any device that hasn’t been on UCB Wireless before. It’s usually seamless, but if your web browser doesn’t automatically take you to the registration page, opening https://safeconnect.colorado.edu:9443/authenticate.!^ should get you there. Here are the steps to register on UCB Wireless. Devices without a browser should not need to register; however, the IT Service Center (contact information is at the bottom) can help manually register these devices if necessary.
Wireless interference: we’re in this together
There are many devices that can cause network interference, but the most problematic are personal Wi-Fi access points and routers. They significantly degrade Wi-Fi services; this is why they are not permitted on the campus network. Some Wi-Fi capable devices can unintentionally act like routers which also causes wireless interference. Wireless printers are an example. If at all possible, you should use the wired network for devices like these or turn off the device when not in use. Don’t forget that wepa printers are available throughout campus.
Wired network: use it where you can
To maximize your internet speed and bandwidth, utilizing the wired network is highly recommended. All rooms have at least one Ethernet jack activated, but you can have more activated free of charge. As noted before, you should not install your own routers or switches, as these cause problems for the network. You can contact the IT Service Center (contact information is below) to request extra Ethernet jacks be activated. We suggest you use CAT 6 Ethernet cables to connect to the network and these are available through the Book Store.
Streaming and multicasting: it’s complicated
There are certain media streaming devices that work better than others on the campus Wi-Fi. Devices that use multicast, such as Google Chromecast, are unable to connect. Amazon Fire is limited to video streaming. Apple TVs are able to stream video, but unable to screencast or mirror (project or control from another device such as iPad, phone or computer). Roku, Blu Rays and gaming devices that stream media should not experience issues on the network. However, due to emerging technologies and software updates, the university cannot guarantee performance of a certain make/model of media streaming devices. Find more info on the Wireless Internet - Known Issues page.
Troubleshooting help: when all else fails
The landscape of internet-connected devices, such as smart home devices, is rapidly changing. If you need help connecting any device to the campus network, or encounter issues with other campus IT services, please contact the IT Service Center at oithelp@colorado.edu or 303-735-4357. You can also report network issues via the Network Troubleshooting form.
