Many devices use Wi-Fi privacy features that change the identity your device uses when connecting to wireless networks. While these features are designed to protect your privacy, they can sometimes interfere with device registration and connectivity on the Northwood Wi-Fi network.
To maintain a consistent connection and avoid repeated registration, you MUST turn OFF this feature in your device’s Wi-Fi settings (if available). Important: If you forget or remove the Northwood Wi-Fi network from your device and reconnect later, your device may use a different Wi-Fi identity. This can require you to register your device again. If you experience connection issues or are prompted to re-register, check your Wi-Fi privacy settings.
▸iPhone or iPad (iOS18 or iPadOS18)
- Open the Settings App
- Tap on Wi-Fi to view available networks.
- Find the northwood network and tap the info icon (ℹ️) next to it
- Tap Private Wi-Fi Address
- Tap Off
- Tap Allow Tracking
- Choose Join This Network
▸Android
Note that the steps may differ slightly depending on your device's manufacturer and the version of Android you’re using.
- Open the Settings App
- Tap Network and Internet
- Tap Wi-Fi
- Locate the northwood Wi-Fi and tap the gear icon
- Tap Advanced
- Tap Privacy
- Tap Use device MAC
- Join northwood Wi-Fi to register your device
▸Mac (Sequoia 15.0)
- Click the Apple menu in the top left corner of the screen
- Select System Settings.
- Click on Network
- Choose Wi-Fi
- Click Advanced
- Find the option for Private Wi-Fi Address and set it to Off
▸Windows
- Select the Start button
- Select the gear icon to go to Settings
- Select Network and Internet
- Select the Wi-Fi tab
- Set "Under Random hardware addresses" to Off
▸Entertainment or Smart Home Devices
For instructions on turning off MAC randomization for smart devices or TVs, please refer to the manufacturer's guidelines, as the process can vary by device. It's essential to disable this feature to ensure proper connectivity on college campuses like the northwood Wi-Fi.