WIFI by Frank Wang/Unsplash

Getting Online

Whether you are a student, visitor or conference attendee, this page describes the basic steps you need to take to establish a wireless or wired network connection in College.

WIFI by Frank Wang/Unsplash

What we offer

Wolfson College Wi Fi Networks

Wolfson College provides a wired, and several wireless networks to support the needs of students, staff, Fellows, and visitors. Each network is designed for a specific purpose, helping ensure reliable, secure access across the college. 
Below is a guide to help you choose the right network for your devices.

eduroam - the primary network for members

Who should use it

All Wolfson College members, including students, staff, and Fellows. If your device supports eduroam, this should be your first choice.

What it is

eduroam (education roaming) is the recommended WiFi service for the entire University of Cambridge community. It provides secure, encrypted connectivity and allows you to stay connected not only across all University and College sites, but also at thousands of participating institutions worldwide.

Why choose eduroam?
  • Works everywhere across the University.
  • Works at participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) worldwide.
  • Offers strong security using authentication linked to your University credentials.
  • Automatically reconnects on campus and anywhere eduroam is available.
  • Ideal for laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
How to connect

You can connect to eduroam by following the University guidelines.

WolfsonCollege - For members’ non eduroam devices

Who should use it

Wolfson members who have devices that cannot connect to eduroam.

Typical devices include:

  • Games consoles 
  • Streaming devices
  • Printers
  • Smart speakers or IoT devices that do not support (802.1x)

Use this network only if your device cannot join eduroam. For all compatible devices, eduroam remains the recommended option.

What it is

WolfsonCollege is intended to support devices that are not compatible with eduroam’s authentication requirements. It is restricted to College members only.

WolfsonVisitors - for visitor day pass access

Who should use it

Guests and visitors to Wolfson College who require short term internet access. Wolfson members should not use this network.

What it is

WolfsonVisitors is a dedicated guest network that provides internet access via a temporary day pass. This ensures that visitors can connect easily without needing University credentials.

Key features:

  • Designed exclusively for short-term guest access
  • Access granted through a simple day-pass system

 

Connecting to the Visitor WiFi Network

Follow the steps below to get online using the WolfsonVisitors network.

1. Select the Network

On your device, open your Wi‑Fi settings and choose:

WolfsonVisitors

Your device will begin connecting.

2. Sign In

Once connected, your browser should automatically open a login page. If it doesn’t, open any website and you will be redirected.

Click Sign In to continue.

3. Register for access

You will be taken to the visitor registration page.

  1. Click Register
  2. Read and accept the Terms and Conditions
  3. Enter your email address
  4. Click Register to complete the process

4. You're online

After registration, your device will be granted internet access and you can begin browsing.

Wired Network (Ethernet)

Wolfson College provides a high‑speed wired network option in student accommodation to support reliable and uninterrupted internet access.

Where Wired Access Is Available

Many student rooms are equipped with a wireless access point mounted on the wall. These access points do more than provide Wi‑Fi - they also include four Ethernet ports located at the bottom of the unit, allowing students to connect devices directly using a standard Ethernet cable.

How to Connect

  1. Locate the in‑room Wi-Fi access point, usually found on the wall near your desk.
  2. At the bottom of the unit, you’ll find four Ethernet ports.
  3. Plug a standard Ethernet cable from your device into any of these ports.
  4. Your device should automatically detect the network.
    - Most laptops and desktops require no additional setup.
    - Some devices may require additional network drivers.

Benefits of Using the Wired Network

  • Fast & Stable Connection
    Wired connections are less prone to interference and offer consistent speeds, making them ideal for high bandwidth tasks.
  • Low Latency
    Perfect for real time activities such as online gaming or video calls.
  • Plug and Play
    Most devices connect instantly with no configuration needed.

Compatible Devices

Almost any device with an Ethernet port can use the wired network, including:

  • Laptops and desktop computers
  • Games consoles
Good to Know

If your device does not have an Ethernet port (common on modern laptops), you can use a USB to Ethernet adapter. For troubleshooting or if your port doesn’t appear active, the College IT helpdesk team can assist.