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Have you brought your computer to campus and need network access? No problem! Follow the steps below to use Oberlin College's network. Be sure to note your existing computer network settings so you can revert to them when you return to your home or workplace.

Step 1: Get a Sponsored Account

Sponsored accounts enable guests to gain access to the Oberlin College network. All Oberlin college account holders, including faculty, staff and students, have the ability to created sponsored accounts. You may also obtain a sponsored account from one of the following locations: Alumni Services, Conference Services, the Mudd Library Circulation Desk, the Conservatory Summer Programs Office or the Oberlin Inn front desk.

A sponsored account has Internet access only (not an email account). It will be the responsibility of the Oberlin College account holder who creates the sponsored account to vouch for the identity of the person who is to use the account and to ensure that individual's compliance with the Oberlin College Policy for the Acceptable Use of Information and Technology Resources.

Step 2: Connect to the Network

Install or update your own virus protection software

Scan for viruses

Perform all operating system updates

Plug into a network port anywhere on campus or connect your computers wireless to ObieWiFi

Step 3: Enter Your Sponsored Account Information

Open a web browser. Enter the Sponsored Account username and password and click Submit. You will have to enter this information once a day; you should open your web browser as the first thing you do when connecting on campus.

Step 4: Install Safe·Connect

Once logged in, you will be prompted to download Oberlin's Safe·Connect Policy Key, a tool used to check the health of your computer. Installing the Policy Key is a quick process, and only needs to be done once. After the Key is installed, the system then checks the computer for viruses and current system updates. If viruses are found or updates are not current, you will be given additional instructions to remedy the problem. Once the checks have been passed, you will be authorized for connection to the network.

Step 5: Returning Home

Uninstall the Safe·Connect Policy Key using the instructions posted here on the Oberlin College CIT Wiki. Revert any computer network settings (e.g., the default wireless network ObieWiFi) to your original home or workplace settings.