“WDevices” is an encrypted MAC address authentication Wi-Fi network to be used with non-802.1x media devices (ex: streaming consoles, gaming consoles, Smart TV’s, etc…) that are not compatible with the “Wnet” 802.1x WPA2 Enterprise Wi-Fi network that uses NetID username/password authentication. Wdevices requires pre-shared key (PSK) authentication to connect, however, MAC address registration will be required for each device that will connect to the Wdevices Wi-Fi network. (The term "MAC" should not be confused with Mac or Macintosh computers or other Apple products.)
When possible, wired connectivity is strongly recommended for Residence Hall network devices. Wired connectivity offers the most reliable connection and provides the fastest download speeds available compared to wireless connectivity. Most devices using wired connectivity should work once network connectivity has been established; however, all gaming consoles and gaming PCs using wired connectivity will require MAC address registration to gain access to online gaming services. (Wireless printers are not supported on any MUW Wi-Fi Network.)
All wired/wireless network devices in the world have a globally unique identifier that is called a MAC (Media Access Control) address. A MAC Address will consist of 12 characters, or hexadecimal digits usually separated by colon symbols every 2 digits. Unlike the decimal numerical system you use in everyday life, the hexadecimal system consists of 16 digits: the numerals 0 through 9 and the letters A(a) through F(f). For example, “00:11:22:AA:BB:CC” (without quotes) is an example of what a MAC address might look like.
All Ethernet and Wi-Fi network devices will have a MAC address associated with the built-in NIC (Network Interface Card) network interface port. Some devices will have a printed label with the MAC address affixed to the bottom or back of the device. However, some devices will require interaction with the device’s software setup interface in order to retrieve the MAC address. Unfortunately, with so many different device brands and versions available, there is not a single set of instructions to retrieve a MAC address via software. Please refer to your device product manual or online resources for guide instructions to obtain your MAC address.
Below is a resource to some popular branded devices that may be helpful in assisting you with locating your MAC address for most popular devices:
Devices that can’t authenticate using “Wnet” (Wnet requires NetID username/password authentication) such as streaming consoles, gaming consoles, Smart TV’s, etc… will first require MAC address registration for each device to connect to the wireless network called “Wdevices”. Instructions for MAC address registration can be found below:
Self Registration for Wdevices
If you still need help connecting, please contact the Help Desk at 329-7282, or send e-mail to helpdesk@muw.edu. For questions about any MUW Wi-Fi Network, e-mail wireless@muw.edu.
Enter your University credentials then click Sign On.
Once you have signed on, you can register up to 5 devices. Click the option 'Yes, register devices' to continue.
Fill out the form with the Device ID (MAC address) and Device Description. Click 'Add' to add another device or click 'Save, Continue' to advance to next screen.
Your device is now registered and can access the Wdevices network.
Once you have successfully registered your device you will go to the Wireless Networks and connect to Wdevices.