Wireless networks at UMBC is available throughout the residence halls and academic buildings. The network uses the latest IEEE 802.11ac and Wifi 6 standards to transmit and receive data. Since the addition of privately-owned access points may inadvertently cause interference, personal (or non-UMBC DoIT) installed access points are not permitted. This includes enabling "hotspot" or "wireless internet connection sharing" from a device on campus.
There are three wireless networks at UMBC:
“Retriever Home” Retriever Home is a secure, encrypted wireless network designed specifically for UMBC residence halls. It provides students with a personalized, home-like network experience, allowing for easy connection of multiple devices such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, gaming consoles, printers, smart home gadgets, etc. Authentication is handled through your housing assignment and myUMBC credentials, ensuring that your devices are connected within your assigned residence hall. Once set up, your devices will automatically connect, providing a seamless experience. For setup instructions and more details, please visit
“eduroam” Is the preferred network in Academic buildings, provides elevated access to campus network services and the Internet. All traffic is encrypted with WPA2, and your credentials may be stored on your device. The eduroam network is used by thousands of schools internationally and will give you access to those other school’s network once configured. Once set up, your devices will automatically connect, providing a seamless experience. The eduroam network may be used with laptops as well as smartphones.
“UMBC Visitor” is designed to grant campus guests easy access to basic web and email services. On “UMBC Visitor” bandwidth is limited and peer-to-peer networking is blocked. Popular file sharing programs may not work and does not offer network encrpytion.
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