Check the configuration instructions to ensure your wireless card and network settings are correct. If they are, here are some general troubleshooting tips that apply to all wireless configurations:

Note: As of June 12, 2007, this service requires your UMail password (the password you usually enter to access your UMass email account) to log in. OIT is phasing out the use of the UMAccess password in an effort to simplify the way members of the UMass community connect to the campus network and access other OIT services.

Check the network status: Find out if other people in your area are also having networking problems. If they can't use the network either, the problem may not be limited to your computer.

Check your card: If you have both a PCMCIA card for wired Ethernet and one for wireless Ethernet and they are both in the computer at the same time, they may conflict with one another. If you are using a Mac, you should disable the AirPort card to avoid conflicts.

Disable network bridging (or Internet Connection Sharing): Opening multiple connections to the campus network may interfere with network stability and your wireless reception. If your computer has both a wired and wireless card, make sure it is not configured for network bridging (or Internet Connection Sharing). Learn how to disable multiple network connections and turn off network bridging.

Make sure your computer is in range of the base antenna: Find out where the antennas are located for the location you are connecting to. Make sure that you are in range of one of the antennas.

All operating systems will have facilities to check the wireless network signal strength. Make sure your signal strength is at an acceptable level. If the signal strength is weak, try pointing your card at one of the antennas.

Make sure your NetID and password are correct: If you are entering an incorrect user name or password on the UMass wireless login screen, your connection will not work. To login to the network, you will need your NetID (OIT Account user name) and UMail password. If you do not have an OIT Account, or if you cannot remember your password, please come to A113 LGRC, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Note: As of June 12, 2007, this service requires your UMail password (the password you usually enter to access your UMass email account) to log in. OIT is phasing out the use of the UMAccess password in an effort to simplify the way members of the UMass community connect to the campus network and access other OIT services.

Run the diagnostic tool on the wireless card: Many wireless cards come with a diagnostic utility that checks the card to make sure it is in proper working condition. The procedures for accessing wireless cards' diagnostic utilities vary depending on the type of card and the operating system. Check your card’s documentation.

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