1.0 Audience
- Students
- Employees (Staff, Faculty)
2.0 Purpose
This article provides answers to frequently asked questions about the Network Modernization Project at Mines. It is designed to help students, faculty, and staff understand how to connect to the updated network, manage devices, access resources remotely, and navigate changes to printing and Wi-Fi across campus. As buildings transition to the new infrastructure, this guide will support users in adapting to the upgraded systems and maintaining reliable connectivity.
3.0 Instructions
FAQ Table of Contents (Answers below)
Connecting to the Network
Device Management and Access
Printing
Project Overview
In newly upgraded buildings, connect to the “Mines” network (“eduroam” is also an option) using your full Mines email (username@mines.edu) and password.
- Connection Tip: Open your Wi-Fi settings, disconnect from the current network, and reconnect to the strongest available signal using your Mines email and password. For more help connecting to the “Mines” network, see our knowledge base article.
In buildings that haven’t been upgraded, continue using the “Mines-Legacy” network ( “eduroam” is also an option). If you’re not sure which buildings have been upgraded, please visit our website.
- Connection Tip: If you’re continuously being asked to re-register with the “Mines-Legacy” or "Mines" network, follow the instructions in this knowledge base article.
- "Mines": Use in upgraded buildings.
- "Mines-Legacy": Use in buildings that have not yet upgraded.
- "Mines-Guest": Backup option with limited access (you won't be able to print or use some other internal tools).
- "eduroam": Available across campus and other institutions; use your Mines email and password to connect.
What can I expect when a building's network is updated?
During the Network Installation: We'll do our best to minimize interruptions while we’re installing the new network in a building, but intermittent interruptions in network connectivity will occur, especially during the first week.
After the Network Installation: Wi-Fi Impacts: If you learn, work, or attend classes in these buildings, here’s what to expect:
- “Mines-Legacy” Wi-Fi is Retiring: A new “Mines” wireless network is replacing it. Once the “Mines” network appears in your available Wi-Fi networks, your computer will either automatically connect or you can manually connect using your username@mines.edu email and password.
- “Mines-Guest” Wi-Fi: You may see additional acceptable use policy prompts, but overall connecting to this network will remain the same.
- "eduroam" Wi-Fi: You can use your username@mines.edu email and password to sign into the eduroam network.
- "Mines-Personal" – This is a new network we've put in place in most residence halls (except the older Mines Park buildings) to connect smart TVs, gaming consoles, and media devices to the Mines-Personal network.
Connection Tips:
- Open your Wi-Fi settings, disconnect from the current network, and reconnect to the strongest available signal using your Mines email and password. For more help connecting to the “Mines” network, see our knowledge base article.
- If you’re continuously being asked to re-register with either the “Mines-Legacy” or "Mines" network, follow the instructions in this knowledge base article.
Impacts to IT-Managed Computers
Impacts to Non-IT Managed Computers: to connect to the New "Mines" Network: Non-IT managed computers will have internet-only access. Follow these steps to gain access to the new “Mines” network.
VPN/GlobalProtect Access Changes
In newly upgraded buildings, non-IT-managed computers will have internet-only access. If you need to access internal network resources (Y: drive, Z: drive, research computers, etc.), follow the instructions in this article.
Impacts to Printing
Non-BlasterPrint printers will no longer work after the new “Mines” network goes live. However, you can still use these printers by connecting them directly to your computer via USB.
Alternatively, BlasterPrint printers are available across campus–find out where they’re located here.
"Mines-PersonalPPSK" Network
The "Mines-Personal PPSK" (Private Pre-Shared Key) network is available in most residence halls (except the older Mines Park buildings) that have been upgraded. This network allows for secure, isolated subnetworks for designated users and is perfect for gaming and streaming devices to connect smart TVs, gaming consoles, and media devices.
How do I know if I am in a building with the new network?
If your building has transitioned to the new network, the "Mines-Legacy" network will no longer appear or will have a weak signal. Going forward, you'll need to connect to the "Mines" network. Check out this article for step-by-step instructions.
When is my building live with the network?
Find the most up-to-date Network Modernization Building install schedule on our website.
Why am I switching between different Wi-Fi networks on campus?
As buildings are upgraded one-by-one, you may find yourself switching between “Mines,” and “Mines-Legacy.” This is temporary. Once the Network Modernization Project is complete in June 2026, the “Mines” network will be the main network across campus.
What is a managed computer?
Get an overview of what it means to have a managed computer this article.
What if my computer is non-IT managed--how does it become managed?
Fill out a Device Management request.
How do I connect to GlobalProtect (VPN) on an Unmanaged or BYOD/Personal device?
Learn more in this article.
What are the Impacts to Printing (BlasterPrint and Non-BlasterPrint printers)?
Non-BlasterPrint printers will no longer work after the new “Mines” network goes live. However, you can still use these printers by connecting them directly to your computer via USB.
Alternatively, BlasterPrint printers are available across campus–find out where they’re located here.
What is new about the network?
This network modernization project is designed to enhance academic and research excellence by providing faster, more reliable connectivity, expanded wireless coverage, and increased capacity. The upgrades also bolster network security and better support the evolving needs of our campus community.
Key enhancements:
When will the Network Modernization Project be completed?
The project is currently 65% complete and is expected to finish by June 2026. Once complete, all buildings will use the new “Mines” network.
4.0 Definitions
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"Mines" Network: The new, secure wireless network available in upgraded campus buildings. Connect using your full Mines email (e.g., username@mines.edu) and password.
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"Mines-Legacy" Network: The older wireless network still in use in buildings that have not yet been upgraded. This network will be retired as the modernization project progresses.
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"Mines-Guest" Network: A limited-access network intended for visitors. It does not support printing or access to internal Mines resources.
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"eduroam": A global academic Wi-Fi network that allows Mines users to connect at participating institutions using their Mines credentials.
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"Mines-Personal" Network: A secure network available in most upgraded residence halls for connecting personal devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
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IT-Managed Device: A computer or device that is configured and maintained by Mines IT, ensuring secure access to internal resources and automatic network connectivity.
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Non-IT Managed Device: A personal or departmental device not maintained by Mines IT. These devices may require additional steps to access internal resources or become managed.
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GlobalProtect (VPN): A virtual private network tool used to securely access internal Mines resources from off-campus or on non-IT-managed devices.
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BlasterPrint: The centrally supported printing system at Mines. BlasterPrint printers are compatible with the new network.
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Network Modernization Project: A campus-wide initiative to upgrade wired and wireless infrastructure, improve speed and reliability, expand coverage, and enhance security. Completion is expected by June 2026.