It’s best to avoid public WiFi and go online using a secure U-M WiFi option or a secure home wireless network. If you need to use public WiFi, you can do so more securely by following the tips below.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Secure Your Internet Connection includes best practices for securing your connection and helps you find the appropriate VPN for your campus.
- MiWorkspace Windows Users: The Cisco management tunnel is installed on your computer, and it automatically protects many of your connections to U-M resources for remote work without you needing to do anything. You may still need to use the U-M VPN to connect to some resources, and you should use a VPN to secure work connections from your personal computer.
- MiWorkspace Mac Users: Your MiWorkspace Mac is configured to use the U-M VPN. Learn more about connecting to the UMVPN using the built-in macOS client.
- Devices not managed by MiWorkspace: Getting Started with VPN provides more information on configuring VPN.
Limit What You Share
- Beware of registering for or signing up to use public WiFi, especially if this requires you to provide personal information. Do not connect if it asks for information you are uncomfortable giving. Don’t reuse your username or password.
- Avoid doing sensitive work or transactions like banking, shopping, or transmitting personal information on public networks.
- Don’t save a public network for automatic connection later.
See Security Tips for Using Public WiFi on Safe Computing for more tips and helpful resources.
