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Wireless and mobile computing (WiFi)

You can access the internet on your mobile device via a wireless (WiFi) network that serves many areas of Birkbeck. There are two ways of connecting: Eduroam and BBK-guest. Printing is also available if you are connected wirelessly. Read our Wireless Network Policy.

If you have a problem with accessing WiFi and need support, or wish to provide feedback on the coverage across Birkbeck, please contact us using Ask. Birkbeck staff should raise an Ask request in My Birkbeck for Staff.

Eduroam

eduroam is an international service that allows staff and students at participating educational organisations to connect to the internet.

You need to initially configure eduroam with your Birkbeck credentials before you can start using it (see below), but, once configured, the service will work automatically at any eduroam location around the world. 

Some Birkbeck services, such as printing, will only work via the virtual private network (VPN).

How to connect to eduroam for Birkbeck staff and students

  • You need to download and run an installer for your device before you can connect to eduroam. You also need to download a security certificate. 
  • You can run the installer while connected to eduroam (if you need to upgrade), or from a broadband or 3G/4G connection, or from the BBK-Guest wireless network. 
  • For installers and detailed instructions please log in to My Birkbeck and go to 'My Software'. For students this is under the 'Manage' menu; for staff it is under the 'My' menu.

How to connect to eduroam for visitors

  • Visitors to Birkbeck from other eduroam institutions should be automatically connected to the network if they have a configured device.
  • Please contact your home institution for support with eduroam, but below are some general instructions that might be of assistance:
    • Visit the eduroam CAT page to begin the installation. Select your country (on mobile devices) and your institution. The page will automatically detect your operating system and download the correct installer for your device when prompted.
    • If you are reinstalling, you should remove the old eduroam profile from your IOS or Android device before proceeding.
  • If you are not from an eduroam institution, you should use the BBK-Guest network instead.

Guest wifi

The BBK-Guest WiFi network is for guest users who need temporary access for conferences and events. It can also be used to set up your device for eduroam.

How to arrange access at your conference

  • Birkbeck staff organising conferences and events can request guest accounts for use by their delegates.
  • These accounts are time-limited and are set up by ITS (for Birkbeck staff) or the Room Bookings Team (for external organisations), in advance of the conference.

How to connect as a delegate or visitor

  • Conference delegates should connect to the BBK-Guest wireless network, review and confirm acceptance of Birkbeck's wireless policy, and then can log in using the time-limited account provided. Read our registration instructions.
  • Visitors to Birkbeck can make a request to access the network, authorised by a sponsor in the department they are visiting. Any Birkbeck staff wishing to be set up as a sponsor should raise an Ask request in My Birkbeck for Staff.