Issue/Question
- How do I register my game console in order to get join wireless?
- How can I get my game console on wireless?
- How can I get my Amazon echo device on wireless?
- How can I get my Roku or Apple TV on wireless?
Environment
Most consumer electronics are not designed to join an enterprise-class wireless using what is known as WPA2-Enterprise or 802.1 networks. In order to continue to allow most of these devices to join a wireless, Bowdoin manages a wireless network called BOWDOIN-PSK. This network uses a more consumer-level network security protocol that many consumer electronic devices can use. This network is still secure, but it uses a unique device password in order to connect to the network.
This network is not to be used for computers, phones, tablets, or any device that can connect to an 802.1 network. If a device is found to be on this network, it will be removed.
In order to join the BOWDOIN-PSK wireless network, you must register your device and obtain a password that is unique to that device. The steps below will guide you through the registration process.
Resolution
To register your device and obtain the device's unques password, follow these steps:
- Log in to https://bowdoin-psk.bowdoin.edu using your Bowdoin email address and password. Note that this service does use single sign-on. If you are logged in to another Bowdoin service, it is possible you won't be prompted for your login information.
- Click the Create button near the middle of the page.
- Enter the MAC address of your device (for information on how to find your MAC address if you don't have it, see the "Related Articles" section on the right.) If you need to go through a setup of your device to get the MAC address please choose PRIVATE NETWORK (NOT the Guest Network!).
- Enter a name for your device. Be descriptive like "Jason's PlayStation 5". This way, if you have more than one device, you'll be able to pick it out of the list.
- Click Create.
- Once you click Create, you will receive an email that has the details of the registration and the password to be used. You can print those same details from the website if needed.
You will NOT be able to see the password anywhere other than that email message so you will want to save it. If lost, you will need to come back to the portal and generate a new password. If you need assistance generating a new password, see the "Related Articles" section on the right for a link to how to generate a new password.
- On your device, choose the wireless network named BOWDOIN-PSK and when asked, enter the password that was emailed to you.
- Your device will now join the wireless network and you can use it as you normally would.
If you need further assistance, please contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk