When traveling and connecting to public WiFi networks at hotels, airports, coffee shops, and convention centers, users may encounter captive portals that require authentication before accessing the internet. To successfully connect to these networks while using the Exium SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solution, users need to temporarily deactivate the SASE tunnel. Here’s how to do it:
¶ Step-by-Step Instructions:
¶ Step 1: Admin Console Access:
- Navigate to the Exium MSP Admin Console.
- Go to Companies and select the relevant company name, or directly access the Customer/ Client Workspace Sign In.
¶ Step 2: Adjust User Settings:
- Click on Admin Console located in the left menu bar.
- Then, select Settings followed by Advanced.
¶ Step 3: Enable Disconnect Options:
- Toggle the User Controls switch to YES: This allows users to manage their connection settings.
- Toggle the Auto Reconnect switch to YES: This ensures that the Exium client will automatically reconnect after a brief disconnection
¶ Step 4: Control Using the Tray Icon:
- Users will see a Tray Icon on their devices, allowing them to temporarily disconnect the SASE tunnel for up to 5 minutes. This is essential for signing into the captive portal.
¶ Step 5: Automatic Reconnection:
- If the user does not manually reconnect to the Exium client after signing into the captive portal, the client will automatically reconnect after 5 minutes. This feature ensures that users remain connected to the SASE service, maintaining secure access.
¶ Automation to allow Captive Portals
We have also identified potential improvements for the tunnel experience for users on the move, with plans to introduce these features in the General Availability (GA) release in the first quarter of 2025. These upgrades include automatic detection of network changes and access to hotel and airport WiFi captive portals, which traditionally are blocked when the tunnel is active.
¶ Conclusion
By following these steps, users can efficiently connect to public WiFi networks while ensuring their SASE connection resumes automatically, providing security and continuous access to their services.
For expert guidance on implementing SASE, XDR, IAM, and GRC solutions, reach out to Exium at partners@exium.net. If you are ready to get started, check out our testing and onboarding process.