Updating Windows Laptop Network Policy

Problem

Cortland‑issued Windows laptops may be unable to connect to the eduroam Wi‑Fi network until they receive a required policy update. To receive the update, the laptop must be connected to the network using a wired Ethernet connection.

If you see a message prompting you to connect to the guest network while your device is docked or connected via wired Ethernet, do not connect to the guest network. Instead, follow the steps below.

If you are unsure how to connect to wired Ethernet, or if you do not have a wired connection available in your workspace, please bring your laptop to the Technology Help Center at Memorial Library for assistance.

Resolution

  1. Connect the laptop to the network directly with an Ethernet cable or docking station. If you are unable to connect to the network through a docking station, try connecting the Ethernet cable to the laptop directly, with the laptop undocked. 
  2. In the Windows search bar, search for "Command Prompt" and click it to open. 
    Windows search bar with command prompt typed in the search bar. Command Prompt is shown as the first best match, with options to Open, Run as administrator, Open file location, Pin to Start, and Pin to Taskbar shown.
  3. In Command Prompt, type gpupdate /force 
    Command Prompt window. gpupdate /force is typed in the command prompt.
     
  4. Press Enter, and allow the update to run. This may take 5-15 minutes. 
    gpupdate in progress. "Updating policy..." is shown in the command prompt window.
     
  5. Once the update is complete, Command Prompt will likely show several errors. Ignore these errors and close command prompt. An example successful update is shown below: 

    If you do not see Computer Policy update has completed successfully then run the command again.
     
  6. Restart your computer.
  7. When the restart is complete, wait a moment and then disconnect the computer from Ethernet. The computer should automatically connect to Eduroam soon after disconnecting. 

 

If after following these steps, you are unable to connect to eduroam wifi, please bring your device to the Technology Help Center at Memorial Library

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