Adding an Ethernet Adapter to Mac Computer

This article aims to assist with allowing a Macbook computer to connect using an ethernet adapter to the JMU wired network. As most Macbooks do not have a built in ethernet port, there are sometimes issues with a Macbook properly detecting or using an ethernet adapter.

JMU-owned devices, MacOS

The majority of Mac computers will automatically detect an Ethernet adapter, or Multi-port adapter once it is plugged in, and will ask for permission on screen to use the adapter. Once you select yes, this should automatically allow the ethernet port to be active on the adapter, and should recognize the ethernet connection once connected. If this does not happen, try the steps below:

For macOS Ventura (13.0) and above:

1. Go to System Settings
2. Go to Network Settings
3. Click the Ellipses on the bottom right
4. Click on Manage Virtual Interfaces
5. In the menu that appears, click on Plus Sign
6. Select whichever generic name most closely relates to the dongle being used. It may read something like USB-C LAN, or Belkin ethernet adapter, or something entirely different like the brand name associated with the device being used.
7. Name the connection whatever you would like
8. Click Create
9. In the bottom right click Done
10. Your ethernet interface should connect if it's already plugged into the ethernet cable. Once it has you'll see a green dot and the word "Connected"
11. From here, open a web browser and visit cip.jmu.edu to register your device on the JMU network (if applicable) using your eID and password

If this does not help to resolve the connection issue after plugging in your ethernet or mutiport adapter, contact the Help Desk for at helpdesk@jmu.edu or 540-568-3555.