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How to Reset Mac Wi-Fi Certificate Settings for UAlaska
Step-by-Step Guide
If your Mac cannot connect to the UAlaska Wi-Fi network, it may be holding onto an old security certificate. This guide walks through clearing the old certificate so your Mac can connect again. It applies to all users connecting to the UAlaska network, using personal or university-managed Macs.
Prerequisites:
- The password you use to log into your computer (required for personal devices only)
Instructions
University-Managed Macs
- Open Iru Self Service using the Spotlight Search (Cmd + Spacebar) or by selecting the 'Jellyfish' icon at the top of your screen.
- Find and run the July 2026 Wi-Fi Fix script. If the script is not available or does not fix the problem, please contact the NTS Service Desk.
Personal Macs
Terminal Command Warning:
These steps use the Terminal and the sudo rm command, which permanently deletes files. Enter the file paths exactly as written to avoid deleting unintended system files.
- Open Terminal. Press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight, type Terminal, and press Enter.
- Delete the old certificate preferences. Copy and paste the following command into Terminal, then press Enter:
sudo rm /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/com.apple.airport.preferences.plist /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/com.apple.network.eapolclient.configuration.plist /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/NetworkInterfaces.plist
When prompted, enter the password you use to log into your computer. Your keystrokes will not appear on screen while you type.
- Restart your Mac. Click the Apple logo in the top left corner and select Restart. The restart is required for the changes to take effect.
- Reconnect to UAlaska. After restarting, open Wi-Fi settings. If UAlaska is still listed, select it and choose Forget This Network. Then select UAlaska to connect again.
- Trust the new certificate. When your Mac prompts you to accept and trust the new security certificate, accept it.
Verification:
You will know this process is complete when your Mac connects to the UAlaska Wi-Fi network after you accept the new certificate. If you are still unable to connect, please contact the NTS Service Desk.