How to setup a wired connection

Connect to Acadia’s wired network

Overview

A wired connection uses an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to a campus network wall jack instead of using Wi-Fi.

Before you can use the connection, Technology Services must register the MAC address of your Ethernet adapter. A MAC address identifies a network adapter; it is not specific to Apple computers.

Before you begin

You will need:

  • An Ethernet cable.

  • A computer with an Ethernet port, or a compatible USB Ethernet adapter or docking station.

  • A campus network wall jack (note: not all network wall jacks are connected)

If you use an adapter or dock, connect it to your computer before finding its MAC address.

Instructions

1. Find your Ethernet MAC address

Use the address for your wired Ethernet connection—not your Wi-Fi address.

Computer Where to look
Windows 11 Open Settings → Network & internet → Advanced network settings → Hardware and connection properties. Find the Ethernet adapter and copy its Physical address (MAC).
Mac Open System Settings → Network. Select your Ethernet connection, then Details → Hardware. Copy the MAC address.

A MAC address contains 12 letters and numbers, usually separated by hyphens or colons—for example, 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E.

Using a dock or USB adapter? Register the Ethernet address shown while that device is connected. Changing adapters or docks may change the address used for your connection.

2. Request registration

  1. Open the MAC Address Registration Form.

  2. Sign in with your Acadia account if prompted.

  3. Complete the form using your Ethernet MAC address. Include your building, room, and wall-jack label, if available.

  4. Submit the request.

Registration typically takes 24 hours. Watch your ticket and Acadia email for confirmation or requests for additional information.

3. Connect after registration is confirmed

  1. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your computer, adapter, or dock.

  2. Plug the other end into the campus network wall jack.

  3. Allow a few moments for the connection to become available.

  4. Open a website to test access. To confirm you are testing Ethernet, temporarily turn off Wi-Fi, then turn it back on afterward if needed.

Troubleshooting

Problem What to try
The computer does not detect a cable Check both ends of the cable. Confirm your adapter or dock is connected and powered, if required. Try another Ethernet cable.
Ethernet is connected, but there is no internet access Confirm registration is complete and that you registered the Ethernet address rather than the Wi-Fi address.
You changed your dock or Ethernet adapter Check its MAC address. If it differs from the registered address, request registration for the new address.
A previously working connection has stopped Check whether your registration has expired. Registration expires annually on April 30 and must be renewed each year.
The wall jack appears inactive Contact the Service Desk and provide the building, room, and jack label. A wall jack may require activation or investigation.

If you need further assistance, include your registration ticket number, Ethernet MAC address, location, and any error message.

Outcome

Once registration is complete and the network jack is active, your computer can access Acadia’s wired network through Ethernet.

Need help?

Contact the Service Desk by submitting a ticket or by initiating a Live Chat.

 

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