ISU Wireless Network (Wi-Fi) FAQ

Description

This article provides answers to frequently asked questions regarding ISU wireless networks and Wi-Fi connectivity at Idaho State University (ISU).

Note: For information about the wireless networks available at Idaho State University and which network is right for your device, visit the Connect to ISU Wireless Networks knowledge base article.

Guide Navigation

Accounts and Passwords

Q: I changed my password, and now the Wi-Fi won't connect.

  • A: After changing your ISU password, update the saved password on every device that connects to the wireless network. 
    • Note: if a device repeatedly attempts to connect using your old password, your account may be temporarily locked out because of multiple failed login attempts.
      • If this happens:
        1. Forget the wireless network on your device.
        2. Wait approximately 15 minutes.
        3. Reconnect using your new password.

Q: Can I purchase Internet service from a third-party provider?

  • On Campus
    • No. Personal wireless routers and other non-University wireless networks are not allowed because they can interfere with the University's wireless network. 
  • Off Campus
    • If you live off campus, contact your housing provider for information about available Internet service options. 

 

Coverage and Performance

Q: Where is wireless coverage available on the Idaho State University Campus?

  • A: Wireless service is available in nearly all:
    • Academic buildings
    • Administrative buildings
    • Residence halls
    • On-campus apartments

Note: Signal strength may vary depending on the building and your location within it. 

Q: Why is my wireless connection slow?

  • A: Wireless performance can be affected by several factors, including:
    • Distance from the nearest wireless access point.
    • Physical barriers such as walls, stairwells, bookshelves, or elevator shafts. 
    • Older wireless hardware or outdated Wi-Fi technology.
    • Outdated network drivers or device software.
    • Interference from nearby devices, such as Bluetooth equipments or microwave ovens.
    • Heavy network usage, because wireless bandwidth is shared among connected users. 

Devices and Networking

Q: What is a MAC address?

  • A: A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique identifier assigned to your device's network adapter. 
    • A MAC address may also be called a:
      • Physical address
      • Hardware address
      • ethernet address
      • Wi-Fi address
Example formats:
  • A5:34:C5:41:G4:74
  • A5-34-C5-41-G4-74
  • A534.C542.G474

Q: Why am I asked to trust a certificate?

  • A: When you connect to TigerNet, your device verifies the identity of the University's authentication server before sending your login credentials. 
    • If prompted, select More Details and confirm the certificate is issued to one of these servers:
      • merry.netel.isu.edu
      • merry2.netel.isu.edu

Note: If the server name matches, continue connecting.

Q: Do I need to connect to the VPN when using ISU Wi-Fi?

  • No. If you're connected to TigerNet, you generally do not need to use the VPN to access campus resources. If you're using another network (such as your home internet, a public Wi-Fi network, or TigerGuest), you may need to connect to the Idaho State University VPN to access certain University resources. 

Note: Visit the Virtual Private Network (VPN) FAQ or Virtual Private Network (VPN) Required Applications knowledge base articles for additional details. 

Printing

Q: Where can I print while connected to Wi-Fi?

  • A: Wireless printing is available at many campus locations.
    • Note: Printing directly to personal wireless printers is not supported. 

Note: Visit the Computer Labs and Print Locations knowledge base article for a list of on-campus print locations. 

Housing and Internet Access

Q: Can I purchase Internet service from a third-party provider?

  • On Campus
    • No. Personal wireless routers and other non-University wireless networks are not allowed because they can interfere with the University's wireless network. 
  • Off Campus
    • If you live off campus, contact your housing provider for information about available Internet service options. 
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