Connecting to the UNC Network - Step 3: Wi-Fi (Wireless) Setup
This document will provide you with the information and instructions needed to configure a Wi-Fi card for use on the UNC-Chapel Hill Wi-Fi network.
Before you can connect to the UNC Wi-Fi network, all Wi-Fi cards must be:
- Registered and configured for DHCP on the UNC network
- Configured with the proper SSID and WEP key
- Physically located in a UNC Wi-Fi zone
Registering and Configuring for DHCP on the UNC Network
You cannot connect to the UNC Wi-Fi network until your device has been registered and configured for DHCP. The registration process is the same for both wired and Wi-Fi cards. Please see the document: Connecting to the UNC Network - Getting Started for further instructions. If your card is already registered and configured for DHCP, then continue on to the next section.
Configuring the SSID and WEP key
Our Wi-Fi network is restricted and encrypted. You must configure your system to use the UNC-CH Wi-Fi SSID and WEP key in order to use the Wi-Fi Internet on-campus.
Wi-Fi or wireless networking is an evolving technology and can be managed by your computer in multiple ways (i.e. your operating system's configuration software, your Wi-Fi card software, or third party software). To begin, you will need to determine what system or software you are or will be using to manage your Wi-Fi settings. You should choose one method; multiple configurations can cause conflicts on your computer. We recommend that you use the operating system's configuration software. If you need technical assistance on determining what is managing your Wi-Fi settings, then contact the ITS Response Center.
For configuration instructions, select the operating system or software that you are using to manage your Wi-Fi settings from the list below:
Operating Systems:
Software/Other:
- ThinkVantage Access Connections
- Other Devices - Generic Configuration Checklist (i.e. Netgear, Linksys, DLink, etc.)
Finding a UNC Wi-Fi zone
In order to get connected to the UNC network via Wi-Fi, your machine must be within a UNC Wi-Fi zone. Wi-Fi access is not available everywhere on the UNC campus. However, many classrooms and campus gathering places are covered. See our Wi-Fi Access Point Locations document for specifics.
Also, see our list of Wireless and Wi-Fi Best Practices and FAQs.
If you need assistance with these instructions, contact us via one of the Other ITS Help Options.


