PittNet Wi-Fi and Wired Networks

Overview

PittNet

PittNet is a high-speed, multi-service network that provides access to University computing resources, the internet, and external research networks. All students, faculty, and staff can connect to the network. In order to support an ever increasing number of large bandwidth applications, PittNet is evaluated continually for updates and maintenance requirements.

Network services include IP Address Management, Domain Name Services, and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol Services. The University manages the IP addresses and name services for the pitt.edu domain. Domain Name Services and DHCP services provide for provisioning of IP addresses and name resolution for PittNet users.

The University of Pittsburgh participates in the Internet2 and Energy Sciences Network (ESnet) initiatives. The University is a charter member of KINBER, the Keystone Initiative for Network-Based Education and Research. Pitt is actively engaged in the establishment of the Pennsylvania Research and Education Network (PennREN).

Wireless

MyResNet is the free high-speed Wi-Fi network in residence halls and University-owned housing. It's capable of accommodating up to ten devices per student, for streaming music and video, as well as online gaming.

Wireless PittNet provides fast, secure, and easy-to-use internet access from academic and administrative buildings across campus. The wireless system is integrated with PittNet authentication services via the 802.1x protocol and can be used by any University-affiliated user with a University Computing Account. PittNet Wi-Fi service provides radio frequency service in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands and is intended to augment the PittNet Wired Network.

Outdoor coverage is provided in several key locations, but the majority of the network infrastructure is targeted at in-building coverage. The service provides for connections to the internet and requires the use of the PittNet VPN (GlobalProtect) service to access resources that are protected by University firewalls.

Pitt Information Technology is constantly working to deliver outstanding wireless service to Pitt students, faculty, and staff. Learn more about our efforts.

Guest Access

Guests have three options for guest Wi-Fi access when visiting the University of Pittsburgh: Eduroam, Pitt Guest Wi-Fi (Anyroam), and MyResNet. Use the comparison table below to learn which service best meets your needs.

Detail

How to Connect

Students

Students living in residence halls on the Pittsburgh campus have access to MyResNet, a dedicated high-speed Wi-Fi network for streaming music and video, as well as online gaming. Students can connect up to ten devices.

In regional campus residence halls and academic buildings on campuses, students can connect to PittNet Wi-Fi for fast, reliable service.

Faculty and Staff

As a faculty or staff member, someone in your department will usually assist you in connecting to PittNet. You can also request assistance through the Technology Help Desk.

Departments

Departments can connect computers, servers, and printers to PittNet. Only one device per port is permitted. Pitt IT installs and supports all networking equipment including hubs, switches, wireless access points, data ports, and cabling. Departmental networking equipment is not permitted. Please review the Network Usage Standards for more information.

An IP address is required for each device and addition of a new data port. One may be requested by submitting a request via online form or contacting the Technology Help Desk.