Connecting a Windows XP Computer to the TrinAir Wireless Network

The steps outlined in this document will guide you through connecting your computer to Trinity's wireless network which requires 802.1X authentication. This authentication provides a secure network connection. Students must register their computer on the wireless network every academic year if they wish to remain on the Internet. NOTE: These instructions are for wireless access in public spaces on campus only, and for the Connecticut Culinary Institute which has wireless access only on site. You must plug into a "wired" Ethernet connection in your dorm room or office on campus.

Configuring Your Windows Computer for Wireless Access

1. Right-click on the wireless network connection icon on the bottom right of your screen and select View Available Wireless Networks menu option.

(You can alternatively go to the Start menu > Settings > Network Connections > Wireless Network Connection > and click on the View Wireless Networks button).
 

2. Select the Change Advanced Settings link on the bottom left hand side of the window.

3. Select the Wireless Networks Tab and select the Add button.

4. The Wireless network properties window opens. Under the Association tab, enter TrinAir for the SSID, WPA for Network Authentication and TKIP for Data encryption:

5. Next click on the Authentication tab. Select Protected EAP (PEAP) for EAP type. Check the box "authenticate as computer when computer information is available".

6. Click on the Properties button. A new window opens. Check the box "Validate server certificate" and select Secured password (EAP-MSCHAP v2) for Select Authentication Method option. Click on the Configure button.

7. A new window opens. STUDENTS will leave this option UNCHECKED if your logon to your computer on startup does not match your Trinity logon username and password (does not log onto the CMPCNTR domain). FACULTY and STAFF will CHECK this box for college-owned computers that log onto their computer with their Trinity username and password.

8. Select OK on this window and all other open windows. You will be prompted to logon to the network; use your Trinity username and password. The first time you logon, you will be asked to accept a certificate. Select OK. You should only have to accept this certificate once.

Registering Your Windows Wireless Connection on the Network

9. Once you are connected, you will need to register your wireless connection. Every student needs to register their computer on the network each academic year if they want access to the Internet.  Computers that are not properly registered will not be able to access web sites outside of the Trinity domain nor will they be able to use other Internet services such as instant messaging. Open a web browser. The only page you should have access to is http://ipassign.trincoll.edu from which you can do a self registration.
10. The ipassign page will not let you view any other web pages or have any Internet activity until you have registered your computer on the network.
11. Follow the directions that appear.  Login with your Trinity ID and password. When asked to enter your Student ID Number, enter your student or faculty ID number located above the bar code on your Trinity ID.
12. Select your dorm or building location and whether your computer is a desktop or a laptop (portable).
13. You do not need to enter any "additional description" unless you wish to.

If you have questions or problems, please contact the Help Desk: students x2007, faculty and staff: 2100