Keep Connected
Maintaining Internet connectivity when teaching, learning, or working from home may be challenging for some. Fortunately there are a number of options for computer access and accessing the Internet remotely. Updated 9/20/23.
See also: Keep Learning, Keep Teaching, and Getting the Most Out of Your Home Office
Accessing Computers, Equipment, & WiFi through WWU
Hot Spots
A limited number of hot spot devices for students with financial need are available through the Equipment Loan Pool.
The Bellingham Public Library offers WiFi hotspots for shorter term checkout (3 weeks).
WWU Computers on Campus
Computers are available on campus. All have Adobe Creative Cloud and the Microsoft suite of applications.
See: General University Computer Lab Locations
See: Study Spaces and 'Virtual Class' Locations - for locations where you can connect to a class remotely if you are on-campus.
WWU Computers at a Distance
Remote Access to WWU Computer Labs - Gain access to a lab computer, access software, and more
WWU Laptops for Checkout
Laptops are available for checkout through the ATUS Equipment Loan Pool, open by appointment (360-650-3300) in Haggard Hall 114.
Connecting to the Internet
Drive-in Wi-Fi hotspots launch statewide
Public-private partnerships seek to bridge the “digital divide” by providing free broadband access to all Washingtonians through community drive-in Wi-Fi hotspots.
More details and a map of locations
Free Wi-Fi Hot Spots in Bellingham
If you live in Bellingham, there are currently dozens of free, open Wi-Fi hotspots. Also, Haggard Hall 153 has Wi-Fi and is open Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm.
Map of Free WiFi Hotspots in Bellingham
Borrow a WiFi HotSpot device from the Bellingham Public Library
Wi-Fi Access Through Other Academic Institutions
If you live near another academic institution, you can log in using your WWU credentials
Eduroam Global WiFi Roaming for Academia and the Eduroam Map
Emergency Broadband Internet from the FCC
The Emergency Broadband Benefit is providing internet and computer discounts.
Receive Low-cost Internet Access through Comcast
New Comcast customers will receive two months of free service in response to the Coronavirus emergency. Internet Essentials is a program for families and other low-income households who currently do not subscribe to Internet at home.
Internet Essentials from Comcast
Charter Communications Offers Free Access to Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi For 60 Days For Educators and Students
Starting March 16, Charter Communications offers free broadband Internet access and Wi-Fi for new educational customers for 60 days.
Create a Hotspot with Your Phone
In some cases, you can create an Internet Wi-Fi hotspot using your cell phone.
Optimize Your Bandwidth
- Getting the Most Out of Your Home Office
- How to Increase Your Internet Speed (WikiHow)
- Internet Performance Checklist
Internet and PC Options in Your Area
EveryoneOn.org - searches for internet and PC options in your area (zip code searchable)
Accessing Resources in the Community
Community Resources in Whatcom County
Community Resources During COVID-19 - Opportunity Council's list of available services for Whatcom County
Accessing Computers in the Community
Computers in the Community
Refurbished computers are available through a local Bellingham non-profit called Computers for People in Need.