On Monday, September 30, 2024, UNCG will implement a significant change in how personal devices connect to campus networks. From this date forward, certificate-based authentication will be the only method allowed for connecting devices to the UNCG network and personal devices will no longer be permitted to access the GCN (General Computing Network).
While certificate-based authentication has been available on campus for the past five years, UNCG is now making it the exclusive authentication method. This move is part of the university’s strategy to enhance security and prioritize a wireless-first approach to secure authentication practices.
What’s Changing?
Certificate-Based Authentication Across All Networks:
- Applies to all devices connected to eduroam and the GCN.
GCN (General Computing Network) Access:
- Only UNCG-managed devices will be allowed to connect to the GCN. Personal devices will no longer have access to this network.
- Faculty and staff using personal devices must connect to the eduroam network instead.
- Access to GCN services on personal devices will still be available through MyCloud desktops, ensuring continued access to essential resources.
- GCN VPN Access: Only UNCG-managed devices will be permitted to connect to the GCN via VPN. The GCN VPN service will no longer be available for personal devices.
eduroam Network Updates:
- Regular eduroam users will benefit from certificate-based authentication, enjoying improved security and convenience.
- Visitors from participating eduroam institutions can continue to use their home credentials for seamless access, with no changes to their login process.
What Does This Mean for You?
- For UNCG-Managed Devices: No action is required. The transition will happen automatically.
- For Personal Devices: Users must connect to eduroam for campus internet access. Once a device is registered with a security certificate, users will no longer need to log in to wireless repeatedly on that device for four years, simplifying the connection process. Additionally, password changes will no longer require updates on each device.
Action Required
To avoid any disruption in service, it is important that users of personal devices update their devices to use certificate-based authentication before September 30.
If it is not installed on your device, see the following detailed instructions:
- Connect to the eduroam Wireless Network with Windows
- Connect to the eduroam Wireless Network with Mac OS
- Connect to the eduroam Wireless Network with iOS Device
- Connect to the eduroam Wireless Network with ChromeOS
- Connect to the eduroam Wireless Network with Android Device
If you have questions or need technical assistance, please contact 6-TECH at (336) 256-TECH (8324), [email protected]. or by submitting a ticket online.
