Wired Networks with icon of ethernet cable

The URI wired network provides robust Ethernet connections to thousands of locations across campus, ensuring reliable access for devices such as VoIP phones and desktop computers that require a physical connection.

Managed by ITS Infrastructure Networking, the system delivers high-speed, secure connectivity for academic, administrative, and operational needs.

Get Help

If you encounter an inactive or damaged network wall jack, or need a new network jack installed, contact the ITS Service Desk. Note that new installations require a fee.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

Wifi with wifi icon

The University of Rhode Island provides campus-wide WiFi access through three networks:

  • URI Secure – The recommended encrypted network for students, faculty, and staff.
  • URI Open – For initial setup and guest access.
  • EDUROAM – Available for visitors from participating institutions.

For best security and performance, all URI account holders should connect to URI Secure using their university credentials.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

About the Service:

WiFi Networks and Access

URI Secure

  • Provides encrypted, authenticated connections.
  • Best for daily use by students, faculty, and staff.

Device-Specific Setup Guides

URI Open (Guest Network)

  • Available for short-term use and initial WiFi setup.
  • Guests can follow the instructions in this Knowledge Base Article to get connected.

Eduroam (For Visitors)

  • Simply connect to EDUROAM using your home institution’s login credentials.
  • Available for visitors from institutions that support EDUROAM.

Troubleshooting and Support

Common Connection Issues

  • General Troubleshooting: Knowledge Base Articles.
  • Android Users: Some Android devices may require disabling randomized MAC addresses (Instructions).
  • Gaming Consoles & Smart Devices: Register devices manually using this guide.
UPS power maintenance with icon of ups and plug

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is a device that provides battery backup to protect IT systems from power failures or voltage drops. UPS systems are deployed in network closets and key locations across URI campuses to ensure continuous operation of mission-critical networking and computing components.

In data centers, UPS systems act as a temporary power source until electrical generators take over, preventing unexpected system shutdowns and minimizing disruptions.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

About the Service:

Features

  • Battery Backup – Provides power during electrical failures to prevent outages.
  • Automatic Shutdown – Can notify servers to power down safely when backup power is low.
  • Network Protection – UPS systems safeguard networking and data infrastructure from interruptions.
  • Monitoring & Alerts – Detects voltage irregularities and can trigger notifications for maintenance.

Access

  • UPS systems are managed centrally by the ITS Infrastructure Networking Team.
  • Most users do not require direct access to UPS devices.
  • Report Issues such as beeping noises, electrical smells, or outages to the ITS Service Desk.

Support and Training

  • Regular Maintenance – The ITS team monitors UPS systems to ensure reliability.
  • Issue Reporting – Contact ITS immediately if you notice unusual UPS behavior.

Get Help:

For assistance with UPS Power Maintenance or to report an issue, contact the ITS Service Desk.

Network Training with icon of person standing in front of a board

URI ITS offers a variety of training opportunities designed to enhance your understanding of networking and related technologies. These sessions aim to build confidence in navigating and using the university’s network infrastructure securely and efficiently. Whether you’re looking for one-on-one guidance, department-wide instruction, or recurring educational events, the ITS Networking team provides resources to meet your needs.

Get Help

For additional training requests or department-specific needs, contact the ITS Service Desk to open a consultation request.

Additional Resources

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

 

Network Communication Services with icon of computer and lan cable

Network / Communication Services supports the design and coordination of physical network infrastructure for URI buildings and renovations. The URI network is a complex computing environment that delivers wired and wireless connectivity across all campuses. Core networking includes central switches, building-to-building fiber connections, and the university’s internet presence.

Endpoints may include computers, printers, wireless access points, VoIP phones, lab or facilities systems, security controls, and mobile devices. URI network infrastructure also supports systems related to facilities management, safety, and modern campus technologies.

If you require guidance for new network-enabled spaces or believe a disruption has occurred, please contact the ITS Service Desk for assistance.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

emergency phones with icon of phone and sos

The URI Emergency Phone system is a separate stand-alone phone system located on campus. This system provides emergency dial tone to critical campus infrastructure such as blue light emergency phones, elevator emergency phones, and campus police emergency lines. This system operates over dedicated infrastructure and is redundant in terms of physical hardware and electrical infrastructure.

If you are experiencing difficulties utilizing the system or need additional information, please contact the ITS Service Desk for assistance.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

Core Networking with image of lan cable and wifi signal

URI’s networking infrastructure delivers wired and wireless access to nearly every space on all campuses. Core Networking encompasses the central network switches, inter-building connections, and internet connectivity that support a wide range of devices. These devices, or end points, include computers, printers, facility systems, cell phones, gaming devices, wireless access points, and telephones, ensuring robust connectivity for all users.

If you suspect a service interruption more extensive than your local device please contact the ITS Service Desk for assistance.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

Automated Alerting for numerous URI IT systems is provided via Solar Winds monitoring software. SolarWinds is a network performance and systems monitoring software that enables businesses to identify, diagnose, and solve critical networking and IT problems. SolarWinds software also improves troubleshooting and service levels that increase usability while minimizing downtime.

Executive Lead

Mark Fester

Technical Lead

Mark Fester
mfester@uri.edu

Support Team

ITS Networking

If you are experiencing difficulties with your existing SolarWinds system or would like more information please contact the ITS Service Desk to request a consultation.