Wired and wireless internet service is provided in residence through Connect-IT, our in-house internet service team. Wi-Fi is available in all residence buildings for everyday use, while a wired Ethernet connection is recommended for activities that require a more stable connection, such as online quizzes.

For setup instructions, troubleshooting tips and device connection information, refer to the guides below.

Internet Connection Guide

The Internet Connection Guide provides step-by-step instructions on setting up wired and wireless internet on your devices.

If you experience connection issues and cannot resolve them using the guide, please contact the Connect-IT Hotline at 519-661-4225.

Download Internet Connection Guide

Connect-IT Hotline Hours

The Connect-IT Hotline is available during the academic year to assist with internet-related questions and troubleshooting.

Connect Additional Devices

To connect an additional device (such as a PlayStation, Xbox or second computer) to the wired residence internet service, you'll need to register its MAC Address (also known as a Physical Address). 

Please note:

• Only devices that connect directly to the Ethernet port can be registered.
• Phones, tablets and other wireless-only devices cannot be registered.
• Game consoles must be registered and connected using an Ethernet cable, as they cannot connect to the residence Wi-Fi.

Need help finding your MAC Address? Refer to the Finding Your Computer's MAC Address or Gaming support pages, or contact the Housing IT Hotline.

Please note that all fields are required. If a field doesn't apply, enter N/A. Please allow 3–4 business days for processing. Requests submitted in September may take longer due to higher volumes.
 

Register New Device

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Connect-IT?

Connect-IT is the University's internet service provider in Western and Huron residences.

How do I access Connect-IT?

Connect-IT is included in a residence room charge. With access to Connect-IT, users can enjoy our high-speed wired internet connection in their residence bedroom and a convenient wireless service throughout their residence building. More information can be found in our Internet Connection Guide.

Is there University provided wireless in my Residence room?

Yes! Students living in residence can access Connect-IT (our wireless service) in their residence room, as well as in other spaces of residence.

Students can also access uwosecure-v2 (Campus wireless service) in main campus buildings such as the University Community Centre.

For more information, please visit wireless.uwo.ca. 

Can I bring a wireless router?

No. Personal wireless routers broadcast interfering signals continuously and represent a security risk to the Connect-IT internet service. As a result, personal wireless routers are not permitted in residence. If you are having issues with your current wireless connection, please call our hotline 519-661-4225 so that we can explore potential solutions. 

Can I connect a wireless printer to Connect-IT?

Wireless printers are not compatible with the security required by our wireless service. Additionally, signals from wireless printers also interfere with the wireless internet being provided to you and your fellow residents. 

You can still use your printer by turning off the wireless broadcasting and using a USB printer cable.

What type of computer do I need to connect to Connect-IT?

Nearly any computer, tablet or smart phone can connect to our wireless and/or wired service. To ensure you have the best experience in the campus technical environment, we recommend that your device meets these recommended minimum specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i3/i5 or AMD equivalent (PC or Mac)
• Memory (RAM): 6GB
• Operating System: Windows 10 or macOS 11 or higher

We provide full technical support for:

• macOS 11 and above
• Windows 10 and above
• Android Phones and Tablets
• iPhones and iPads
• Chrome OS devices

Please note that distributions of Linux operating systems may not be supported by our staff, but can connect to our services. 

If you have any questions about your device specifications, please contact our Hotline at 519-661-4225 or email us at connect-it@uwo.ca. 

What are the Connect-IT Bandwidth limits?

Connect-IT has no monthly bandwidth limits. Please note that primary purpose of our network service is to support the academic mission of the University. To ensure equal access for all users, we do reserve the right to request that users monopolizing the network resources, reduce their usage. In order to preserve the integrity of the network, we also reserve the right to modify our bandwidth limits policy.

What else do I need to bring?

• Ethernet cable (recommended for wired internet)
  • In order to take advantage of our high-speed wired service, you will need an Ethernet cable. A 15ft Ethernet cable is sufficient (available at residence front desk if you forgot to bring one).
• A USB printer cable
  • Required if bringing a printer (wireless printing is not permitted due to network interference)
• Anti-Virus Software
  • Must be installed and set to update automatically before arriving to residence.
  • Tech Services (located in Dellelce Family Bookstore) offers student pricing on anti-virus software for both Windows and macOS computers.
• Ethernet adapter (if required): For devices without an Ethernet port (USB-A or USB-C)

For a complete list of what to bring to residence, please visit our Move-In Planning Guide.

What if I need help during the year with Connect-IT?

Although you are responsible for getting connected, we have an excellent student support team available to assist with configuration issues. For those who are experiencing connection difficulties, we recommend that they call our Hotline at 519-661-4225 and speak with a customer service representative. 

What is a good network speed?

Worried about your network's speeds? You can run a speed test here: http://speedtest.uwo.pri/ 

Here's what your result means:

• Download speed = how much information your device can receive in one second
• Upload speed = how much information your device can send in one second
• Ping = your device's reaction time, how quickly you receive a response from the network after sending a request

So how much speed do you need to connect?

• Sending a Snapchat requires about 1Mb to upload, your speed will affect how quickly this 1Mb of information leaves your device
• Fortnite recommends 3 Mbsp Download Speed and 0.5 Mbps Upload Speed
• Zoom recommends 4 Mbsp Download Speed and 3.8 Mbps Upload Speed
• YouTube recommends 4 Mbps Download Speed for 1080p streaming
• WhatsApp recommends 5 Mbps Download and Upload Speed for a video call
• Twitch recommends 6–8 Mbps to broadcast a stream
• GTA Online recommends 7.5 Mbps Download Speed and 1Mbps Upload Speed
• Netflix recommends 15 Mbps Download Speed for Ultra HD streaming