I work at a small independent school with less than 100 students, and we lack a dedicated tech team, leaving our internet security minimal. I want to start by restricting our student WiFi network to only allow Chromebooks issued by the school. However, I’m not experienced in this area, and I’m struggling to find relevant resources due to my unfamiliarity with the technical terms. Can anyone guide me on how to set this up or point me to useful resources?
You can set up restrictions through your router settings, usually accessible by typing the router’s IP address into your browser. You could then limit access to only those devices whose MAC addresses are registered in the system, though gathering and maintaining this list can be tedious.
@keny
I can access the Google admin console, which lists several iPhones, but I’m unclear if it’s possible to filter devices directly without knowing each MAC address. Am I right in thinking that device and website restrictions need to be configured on the router rather than through the Google Admin Console?
@Dr.Smitha
Yes, to block personal devices effectively, you would need to configure your router, not the Google Admin Console. The console is more about managing access to Google services rather than restricting network access. Depending on your router, you might be able to create a secondary network specifically for students or change the WiFi password regularly to restrict access.
@keny
For more on MAC filtering, check out this guide: MAC Filtering: What Is It and Should I Enable It?
This might be more technical than you’re comfortable with. You could use a Captive Portal to require logins, or MAC address filtering to allow only specific devices. Another simpler method, if you’re using Google Workspace for Education, is to set a unique SSID for the Chromebooks and keep the WiFi password confidential.
@Alex
It’s quite overwhelming. I might not have the technical depth required for detailed network configurations.
Consider connecting with professional networks through your school’s accrediting body or organizations like NAIS, Oesis, ISTE, or NEIT. They often provide resources and support for tech challenges in educational settings.
@ProfessorPenny
I’ll look into that. It’s surprising that we’re distributing Chromebooks without adequate digital safeguards in place.
We use a specific network setup where Chromebooks automatically connect to a student device network, which is password-protected, and the network login info is managed through Google Admin. This setup avoids students knowing the WiFi password.
@Mark
That sounds like what we need, but I’m not familiar with setting this up. Could you explain this in simpler terms? It’s vital that we find a solution soon to ensure our network’s security.
Dr.Smitha said:
@Mark
That sounds like what we need, but I’m not familiar with setting this up. Could you explain this in simpler terms? It’s vital that we find a solution soon to ensure our network’s security.
Here’s a breakdown: Set up a temporary network for onboarding new devices. Once enrolled, these devices receive WiFi settings via Google Admin, which automatically connects them to a secure network. This way, students never need to enter a WiFi password themselves.
You might want to start by identifying the brand of your wireless equipment. Look for wireless access points around your school or check the network closet. Then, contact the manufacturer for support, especially if your school has a service contract with them.