Background

UWNet is a public Wi-Fi network that can be accessed by anyone here at UW-Madison. As with any public Wi-Fi network, some devices that utilize specific features on that network will not work on UWNet. Specifically, UWNet blocks the "IP Multicast" feature, which will cause some devices that utilize this feature to not be able to connect at all while others are able to connect with limited functionality. This feature is common in devices such as Google Homes, Amazon Echos, and Google Chromecasts (basically, anything with a Cast feature or something similar built-in). Features other than "IP Multicast" may also cause issues and function incorrectly on UWNet.

The first list contains devices that will not work under UWNet, while the second list contains devices that partially work under UWNet (i.e. certain features will be unavailable).

NOTE: The DoIT Help Desk cannot guarantee that any device on either of these two lists will/will not work on UWNet. Devices on these lists may work in certain scenarios, for limited amounts of time, or not at all.

Known Incompatible Devices

• • Wireless Printers

  • Google Chromecast

  • Smart home devices such as Google Home, Amazon Echo, etc

  • Some SmartTVs, especially those with a Cast feature (e.g Airplay, Screen mirroring, Screen sharing)

    • This can include Roku, Apple TV, Samsung, Vizio, Sony, Amazon, and most other brands of SmartTVs

      Note: It is hard to predict which specific models will connect due to the abundance of TV models. If unsure, ask the manufacturer if the device has 'IP Multicast'. Some Smart TVs will connect and just have limited Cast features, while others will not connect to UWNet at all.

  • Wi-Fi Extenders

    Note: If the Wi-Fi extender has been supplied or approved by DoIT Help Desk, then it is okay to use. However, using an extender that has not been approved by DoIT can result in negative effects on the entire network. Users that are experiencing connectivity issues should first resort to contacting the Help Desk and submitting a case for improved coverage. 

  • Any device that is not able to be registered using a web browser. Users with a UW Madison NetID can attempt to connect by registering the device as shown here: Wireless UWNet - Register a Device Without a Browser

Devices That May Experience Connectivity Issues

The following devices may be able to connect to UWNet and use the internet in some cases, but the features of the device may be limited (such as online gaming/voice chat).

NOTE: The NAT type of UWNet, which limits some online gaming functionality in modern game consoles such as the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, cannot be modified due to security reasons.

• Nintendo Wii

• Nintendo 3DS and DS

  • NOTE: The Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service, which the original Nintendo DS used to connect to Wi-Fi, has been discontinued by Nintendo and will not work in any scenario.

• Nintendo Switch

• PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

• Xbox One, Series X or S

• Kindle Devices

• Any device that has a 'Cast' feature

• Some LED lights

Note For UW Housing Residents:

Residents of the UW-Madison Residence Halls are able to connect devices that are not compatible with UWNet by connecting to a personal wireless router and therefore a private local network. When connected to a personal router, you should be able to use your devices normally, however, certain features may not work. Features such as P2P gaming or voice chatting may still not function correctly.