Frequently Asked Questions (Zone 1)

What is a MAC address?

MAC stands for Media Access Control. A MAC address is used to uniquely identify an individual network device. Many devices have more than one network interface (often one wired and one wireless), and each of them has its unique MAC address. We use it in our system to identify students’ computers.

How do I find my MAC address?

Details on how to find your MAC address on various operating systems can be found here.

I have entered an incorrect MAC address. What do I do next?

You can change this yourself once you are registered. Log into the portal and click on 'Register another device'. Once you have entered your MAC address and device name (optional) please check the box 'make active' and select register.

I want to change my active device

If you have registered more than one device you can switch the active device by logging into the Hornet portal, find the device you want to active and select 'make active'

I have registered in the wrong room. How do I correct this?

You can update your own room by logging into the Hornet system and selecting the appropriate hall and room. Alternatively, your room should be automatically updated every 12 hours.

I moved over to different hall. How do I update my account?

Your room should be automatically updated within 12 hours. If this is not the case then please speak to your local reception team who will be able to update your room allocation on the University accommodation system.

My room is not available from the list

First, double check, it's easy to miss! If you still cannot find your room then please speak to your halls informing them your room isn't available and they will be able to check your allocation on the University accommodation system.

I cannot log on using my University username and password

You should already have your University of Manchester username and password. If your username and password do not work then your password can be reset on the IT Account Manager. If you are unable to reset your password or still cannot log on then please contact the IT Support Centre.

I cannot log on using my guest username and password

You can reset your guest account credentials on the Hornet login pages.

How do I connect to Wi-Fi?

Eduroam is the Wi-Fi network at the University you need to connect to.

All eduroam usernames start with your IT account name and finish with @manchester.ac.uk

When setting up eduroam, you must enter the username in the format itaccount@manchester.ac.uk , where "itaccount" is your IT account name.

For example, if your IT account name is v12345ab, your eduroam username is v12345ab@manchester.ac.uk

Can I connect my smart device to the University network?

Eduroam's security features require you to introduce your username and password to connect. If you have a device such as Chromecast, Google Nest, Echo, Alexa... without the functionality to introduce a username and password, unfortunately they will not work on Eduroam. If you have devices without the option for username/password, but with a browser interface (for example, some Smart TVs), you will be able to connect to UoM_Wifi instead.

I went through the FAQ and I was unable to find the solution to my problem. What do I do next?

Once you're registered, you can report a problem from your Hornet Account. One of our dedicated Hornet Reps will respond to the issue within the next 48 hours and aim to fix the issue within next 7 days.