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Device Registration

To improve security and manage access to our campus wireless network, we're introducing a new device registration system.

Before using the University Wi-Fi, all personal devices must be registered. Once registered, devices will be authorized to connect to either:

  • CU Online (our open network)
  • CU Online Secure (an encrypted network with a unique, per-device password)

Devices registered using a CU account stay active for 6 months from their last use – after that, you'll need to register again.

Getting Connected

Some devices use a random MAC address by default – you'll want to turn that off before registering! Here's how.

Check out the Device Instructions page for step-by-step instructions on connecting and registering common devices.

Devices with a web browser

Computers, phones, and tablets

  • Connect to CU Online.

  • Register your device — your MAC address will automatically be detected.

    • If you don't automatically get prompted to register:
      • On Apple iOS Devices: Make sure auto-login is enabled in CU Online settings.
      • Try forgetting the CU Online network and setting it up again.
      • Open a web browser and visit any website to manually initiate the registration process.
    • Select which type of account you will be using to sign in
      • If you have a CU or PASSHE account, you can register your device using it.
      • Otherwise, you will need to request a guest account. Guest accounts are limited to fewer devices and a shorter duration of network access.
    • Select Register this device
    • Log in using your CU, PASSHE, or guest account
    • Provide a device nickname that helps you know which device this is later
    • Optional: Specify your own Wi-Fi password for this device
    • Optional: Enter a phone number to receive a text message with your device registration information
    • Review and accept the terms of use
    • Click or tap Create Device
    • Your device will briefly disconnect from the Wi-Fi. When it reconnects, you will have network access.

  • Optional: Connect to CU Online Secure using the unique password that was generated for your device.

Devices without a web browser

Gaming consoles, media players, and TVs

  • Find your device’s MAC address.

  • Head to our registration portal on a different device.

    • Log in using your CU, PASSHE, or guest account
    • Under Devices, click Create Device
    • Provide a device nickname that helps you know which device this is later
    • Optional: Specify your own Wi-Fi password for this device
    • Optional: Enter a phone number to receive a text message with your device registration information
    • Review and accept the terms of use
    • Click Create Device
  • Connect to Wi-Fi — you’re good to go!

Managing Devices

Manage your devices at netreg.commonwealthu.edu.

View and manage your registered devices, update Wi-Fi passwords, and add or remove devices anytime. Log in with your CU, PASSHE, or guest account.

Visiting campus?

No problem — guests can easily get online by registering for temporary access.

Here’s how it works:

  • Connect to CU Online.
  • When prompted, select I am a guest, then request guest account.
  • Enter your name, email address, and mobile phone number.
  • We’ll text you a temporary username and password.
  • Follow the steps above to register your device.
  • Optional: Check your email for a confirmation link, if you need guest access longer than 24 hours.
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