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Getting Connected: Visitors

Visitors to the Cornell campus (without a NetID) can use the Cornell University network (wired and Wi-Fi) as registered guests for 21 days per semester. 

Network Registration for Visitors

Every computer using the Cornell University network must be registered with contact information for the person using the computer. This enables the IT Security office to contact the owner if a computer appears to have a security issue.

Online registration is fast, easy, and automatic.

  1. Register: When you first use a web browser on the Cornell University network, you will see a web page asking for identification information including:
    • Your name
    • A valid e-mail address
    • Length of your visit (21 days per semester)
    • Cornell unit (optional)
    • Purpose of visit (optional)
  2. Confirm: After you enter your contact information, you can immediately begin using the network. You will receive a confirmation e-mail, with a URL where you can confirm your registration. Once you confirm your registration, you can continue using the Cornell network for the length of your visit, up to 21 days. Unconfirmed registrations are deleted overnight.

How To Connect to the RedRover Wi-Fi Network: For step-by-step instructions, see the How To Connect to RedRover as a Guest page.

Public Ports: If you register your computer on a public port that permits access by any computer, your registration can be used on any other public port or on departmental networks that allow public access.

Departmental Networks: If you are visiting a Cornell college or department, consult the IT support staff there. Departmental networks may or may not allow visitor registration, and may require a passcode. Your host department may prefer to have a network administrator register your computer for you.

Connecting to the Wired Network in a Residence Hall: Some visitors stay in campus residence halls. If you want to connect to the wired network in a residence hall room, you'll need to ask the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) to complete the registration. Call (607) 255-8990, or send e-mail to helpdesk@cornell.edu.

Longer visits: Visitors can register to use the Cornell network for up to 21 days per semester. (Registrations are reset on January 1 and July 1 each year.) If your visit is longer than 21 days, speak with your department host. You may be able to obtain a Sponsored NetID or the department's network administrator may be able to extend your registration. You can also ask the CIT Contact Center to provide a 5-day extension for your RedRover Wi-Fi registration. Call (607) 255-8990.

Help: If you are using a Cornell department's network, the departmental IT support staff will be best able to assist you. Otherwise, call the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) at (607) 255-8990, or send e-mail to helpdesk@cornell.edu.