Change coming to network sign-in

Shortly after Spring graduation, JMU Information Technology will replace the system that controls your computer’s access to the JMU network.

What does this mean for you? If you are a JMU employee or affiliate, you may experience a new sign-in page when you connect your device to the JMU network with an Ethernet cable. The new page will be introduced to the JMU network gradually, beginning after Spring graduation and completing by May 31, 2024.

While the page gets a fresh look, it functions the same as the current sign-in page. Those required to sign in to the network will see the page appear in a web browser, though not all computers are required to sign in through it. Network authentication is primarily required on Mac computers, “un-managed” Windows computers (devices that are not managed by IT), and some managed Windows devices that are connecting to the network for the first time. Windows devices that are managed by JMU IT typically authenticate automatically when you log in to the device, so the browser-based sign-in page is not displayed.

Device Authentication

Every 30 days, devices must be allowed to connect to the JMU network via an Ethernet cable.  On most Windows devices, this happens automatically when you log in to your device with your JMU eID and password.  On devices that are not managed by IT, or on Mac devices**, users see a login page whenever they open a web browser and try to access the network.  For many years, the login screen looked like this:

Following the change, the login screen will look like the following:

With the new system, the login will also be a bit faster. Currently, network sign in takes about 15 seconds to take effect after you enter your eID and password.  After the change, there will only be about a 5-second delay before you gain network access.

** JMU is actively working on a solution for Mac network authentication that does not require users of JMU-managed Mac computers to perform web device authentication every 30 days.

Questions?

If you have questions or would like more information about this change, please reach out to the IT Help Desk at (540)568-3555 or helpdesk@jmu.edu.