Get Connected – Wireless Networks at UMass Amherst

Secure wireless for students, faculty, and staff
eduroam | Best option for most devices

Configure your device to use eduroam

eduroam is the encrypted wireless network at UMass Amherst. Use this network for most devices, including laptops, smartphones & tablets.

1. Go to umass.edu/it/eduroam.  
   If you need access to Wi-Fi to get to the login page, use the UMASS network temporarily.
2. Download and run the eduroam setup app. 
   You will be prompted for your NetID and password. 

Detailed instructions

Wireless for streaming devices and gaming consoles
UMASS-DEVICES

Register a device

UMASS-DEVICES provides wireless for select streaming devices & gaming consoles (e.g. Apple TV, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch). Learn more

1. On a computer or mobile device, go to devices.it.umass.edu. 
   Log in with your NetID and password
2. Fill out the form, and click Create Device.
3. Connect your device to the UMASS-DEVICES network using the info listed on the New Device Registration page. 

Wireless for campus guests
UMASS

Campus guests can self-register via SMS to get wireless access.

1. Connect your device to the UMASS network and wait for the login page to appear. 
   If a login page does not appear, open a web browser and go to umass.edu.
2. Under Guest Wireless Options, click Guest Self-Reg Form.
3. Follow the steps to enter your cellphone number to receive a PIN via text message.
4. Enter the PIN in the Access code box and accept the terms to get online. 

UMass Amherst students, faculty, and staff can also create sponsored guest wireless accounts in SPIRE, which can be used for 3 days. Devices may stay connected for up to 7 days after the account is logged into for the first time.

Detailed guest wireless instructions

Troubleshoot & Report Wireless Issues

If you are experiencing a network connectivity issue, follow these steps to resolve common problems and report issues that persist.

1. Make sure your device’s Wi-Fi adapter is enabled and airplane mode is turned off.
2. Follow the steps above to make sure eduroam is configured on your device.
3. Report any wireless issues that persist after troubleshooting via the Wireless Connectivity Issue form in ServiceNow. 

If you are experiencing issues accessing your UMass Amherst account, or need help with other university technology services, get in touch with the IT Service Desk. 

Improving Wireless Networks at UMass Amherst

Building and supporting a resilient and performant wireless network remains a top priority for UMass Amherst Information Technology. We continue making strategic adjustments, maintaining and upgrading equipment, and monitoring performance and feedback around the clock to meet the needs of our growing, technology-forward campus community. 

UMass Amherst Information Technology oversees the infrastructure which supports campus wireless networks – including about 10,000 pieces of networking equipment, around 7,000 of which are wireless access points – all connected to the core network to deliver secure internet service. Our networks support about 150,000 connections per day, at peak times using around 30 gigabits per second of our 40 gigabit capacity.

We’re constantly making improvements to our campus network – so if something is not performing as well as it should, please let us know.

Learn more about how we tackle the challenges behind wireless at UMass Amherst