At first glance, the campus network may look the same, all the familiar Wi-Fi networks like BU-Student, BU-Guest, and BU-IOT are still there. But behind the scenes, everything has been upgraded.

The new infrastructure introduces major improvements in bandwidth, reliability, and scalability. This means more stable connections, fewer interruptions, and better performance even when many devices are online. Think of it like widening the digital highways - more lanes, less congestion, and room to grow.

Faster internet speeds are also on the way. While those upgrades are happening in phases, the foundation is now in place to support them. Stay tuned, we’ll share more details soon!

Which Network Should I Use?

BU’s networks are segmented to give you a better, more secure experience based on your needs.
Network access passwords and connection instructions are available on myBU. After logging in, you’ll see the networks available to you, just click the one you want to join for step-by-step setup instructions.

Here’s a quick overview:

• BU-Guest: Open to anyone on campus. This network is isolated from internal systems and is best for basic browsing or temporary access. It supports VPN use. Access is limited to 24 hours per session, and bandwidth is capped to ensure a stable experience for all users.
• BU-Student: For enrolled students only. This network provides access to key internal systems like campus printers. For security reasons, VPNs are disabled here to maintain visibility and enforce our zero trust policy.
• BU-Faculty/Staff: For faculty and staff devices only. This network provides secure access to internal university systems and administrative resources. Like BU-Student, VPNs are restricted here to maintain security and visibility in accordance with our zero trust policy.
• BU-IOT: For gaming consoles, smart TVs, and other connected devices. Each device must be approved before connecting. Submit your request through the Device Access Request Form. This network does not connect to internal systems but offers the highest bandwidth on campus, optimized for multimedia, streaming, and gaming. It supports VPN use.

If your device doesn’t reconnect automatically when you return to campus, don’t worry, this is expected in some cases. While the network names look the same, the system behind them has changed. Your device might still be trying to connect based on old settings.

To fix it, simply forget the network on your device and reconnect. When joining the “BU-Student” network, you’ll enter the network password first, followed by your BU student credentials. After a short delay, your device should connect normally.

We’ve also made some important security upgrades to the BU-Student network, including changes to how VPNs are handled. Don’t worry, we’ll explain more in just a moment. For now, just know that VPN use is still supported on the Guest and IoT networks.

Why Is My VPN Not Working?

Personal/Private VPNs are intentionally restricted on the BU-Student and BU-Faculty/Staff networks to maintain the security and integrity of internal campus systems. This network provides access to sensitive resources like campus printers and other internal services, which require high levels of visibility and control.

When a VPN is active, it encrypts your traffic and routes it through an external server, which limits our ability to detect threats, monitor activity, or respond to security issues. To protect all users and systems, we follow a zero trust security model on this network, meaning every connection must be visible and verifiable.

If you need to use a VPN, you can still do so on the Guest or IoT networks, which are segmented and don’t interact with secure internal systems.

Can I Use a Personal Router or Hotspot in My Dorm?

How Do I Report Network Issues?

You can reach IST by emailing " support@bluefield.edu " or stopping by the IST office located in Lansdell Hall on the first floor Room 100.