Getting Online

Online Authentication

MSU NetID

MSU NetIDs are assigned to all current faculty, staff, students, and retirees. A NetID is a unique alphanumeric identifier auto-generated from the user’s name. Your NetID is your personal identifier at MSU and serves as your login to many university computing and networking services. Before accessing the MSU network, you’ll need to activate your MSU NetID.

MSU Guest Accounts

Guest Accounts provide access to some services for individuals are who not affiliated with MSU directly. These individuals typically include parents/guardians of enrolled students, members of the general public who sign up for non-credit courses or distance learners, etc. Learn more or register for an MSU Guest Account.

Connecting to MSU Wi-Fi

Connecting to eduroam for the first time

1. Download and install the JoinNow application using this link.
2. Once redirected, click JoinNow to begin the download.
3. Once the download is complete, open JoinNow from your downloads folder and click next.
4. This will redirect you to MSU’s single sign on.
   • Login to your MSU account using your NetID and password.
5. Once logged in, you go back to the JoinNow application.
   • Your device is now setup to automatically connect to eduroam.
   • You’ll connect across campus and have access to your campus resources globally, everywhere that eduroam exists, without any additional setup.

Specific operating system information for connecting to eduroam can be found using these links:

• Android
• iOS
• macOS
• Windows

Connecting Smart TVs & Gaming Devices

To connect other devices like gaming systems, smart TVs, access points, and streaming services like Apple TV or Chromecast, you’ll need to register your device to connect to the MSUnet 3.0 Wi-Fi.

1. To register, you’ll need to use your laptop or mobile device
2. Go to dhcp.msu.edu
3. Sign in with your MSU NetID and password and click Register that device
4. You’ll then have the option to Register Another Device
5. Find and enter the device’s MAC address, name of device, and location.
   1. If you can’t find the MAC address, just search the internet for ‘MAC address for [name of device]’.
6. Click Register Now, then I agree
7. When you’re done, restart your device.

Please read the Acceptable Use Policy for MSU Information Technology Resources for the MSU community.

Connecting to Guest Wi-Fi

MSU guests and visitors can connect to MSUNet Guest Wireless without needing an MSU NetID or to register their devices.

Read more about MSUNet Guest Access.

Public Wi-Fi: How to Stay Safe

If you choose to use public Wi-Fi, consider taking these appropriate steps to protect yourself:

• Keep antivirus installed and up to date
• Use a VPN
• Be skeptical if it’s too easy to connect (ex. no agreement page)
• Only browse on HTTPS websites
• Refrain from accessing confidential data (ex. bank account)
• Avoid performing online transactions
• Verify popular Wi-Fi networks are correct (ex. Starbucks WiFi vs. Free Starbucks WiFi)
• Always make sure paid Wi-Fi is legitimate and use a third-party payment system
• Cover your keyboard when entering any passwords or credentials
• If the connection is slow, it could be due to the device rerouting to the hacker’s access point

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Also known as Campus VPN, MSU secure remote access, or F5 BIG-IP Edge, this service provides the MSU community to securely connect to the MSU campus network. This VPN connection works from any location, whether in East Lansing or anywhere around the world.

Faculty, staff, retirees, trustees, and students can access and download the new Campus VPN (F5 BIG-IP Edge Client) using their MSU NetID at new.vpn.msu.edu.

An MSU VPN override may be requested by a sponsoring faculty or staff member for VPN access for temporary/on-call employees, vendors, affiliates, and other NetIDs associated with university business.

More info on Campus VPN can be found here: https://go.msu.edu/q4p

Need Help?

Contact the MSU Service Desk at (517) 432-6200 or visit ithelp.msu.edu.