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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We've collected some FAQs from our pilot and early adopter sessions in order to give you more information on Marvis, the Marvis Client and what it means for you.
Where are the instructions?
You can find the instructions for connecting to eduroam at: Wi-Fi: Connecting a personal device to eduroam .
Which devices need to have the Marvis Client installed?
Basically any device which is not centrally managed via DTS (i.e. your own personal devices and BYOD) as well as any device which does not receive software updates pushed from DTS (e.g. University provided Android mobile phones and Android tablets). If you are uncertain about a specific device, please raise a ticket and we'll let you know.
Devices which are managed by DTS (e.g. Macs, Windows desktops and laptops, University owned iPhones and iPads) will get the required certificate pushed via a central update and should not install the Marvis Client.
Why are we rolling out the Marvis app to connect to eduroam?
Everything is using apps these days, and we are no exception. The Marvis application is being rolled out by Juniper Networks (who provide our Wi-Fi network infrastructure) as the new modern method of authentication for their Wi-Fi network equipment.
DTS already uses Marvis to monitor our Wi-Fi network and diagnose issues with Wireless Access Points. By combining data from both the Wireless Access Points and devices with Marvis installed, we get a full view of network performance.
The main reason we are accelerating the move to Marvis on personal devices is security. The existing username/password method is not as secure as we would like, and there are benefits to being an early adopter that can help shape future development of the Marvis Client.
What info does Marvis collect and what permissions are needed?
The Marvis Client collects data on your device's Wi-Fi interactions, including signal strength, connection quality, and other network metrics. Juniper Mist uses this data to provide a comprehensive view of the device's network experience. This information is not shared with third parties.
The only permission you may need to grant the Marvis Client is location services (some devices require this to access Wi-Fi). Nothing else is mandated.
Where can I get the Marvis Client app I need to connect to eduroam?
You can download the Marvis Client app from the UoR Juniper Mist Portal , or from the Microsoft Store, Apple App Store, or Google Play Store.
Which "Marvis" app is the one that I need?
If you find more than one app called Marvis, make sure you install Marvis Client, published by Juniper Networks.
The logo is a green square or cube with eyes, depending on the platform.
What are the minimum requirements to install the Marvis Client?
The Marvis Client application runs on most devices:
- iOS for iPhone or iPad: 16.6 or later
- Android: 12 or later
- macOS: 14.6 Sonoma or later
- Windows: Windows 10 or 11
- Linux Debian-based systems: Debian 10 (Buster) or later, Ubuntu 20.04 or later
- Linux Fedora-based systems: Fedora 34 or later
As per the University of Reading Bring Your Own Device Policy , devices connected to University networks must be running supported software.
- iOS for iPhone or iPad: 18 or later
- Android: 14
- macOS: 14.6 Sonoma
- Windows: Windows 11
- Linux Debian 11/12, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS+, Fedora 43
Although Marvis may run on earlier versions, future releases may enforce minimum supported operating system requirements.
Check supported versions at: endoflife.date
I am a Linux user - can I install the Marvis Client?
Yes. Fedora and Debian-based Linux distributions are supported. Please refer to the eduroam connection instructions for personal devices.
I've got a University of Reading provided mobile phone - do I need to install the Marvis Client app?
University-provided Android phones and tablets require Marvis Client if they need to connect to eduroam.
University-provided iPhones and iPads should not install Marvis Client. If they are not connecting automatically, contact DTS for assistance.
Which devices can't connect to the Eduroam Wi-Fi network?
Some devices do not support 802.1X authentication or TLS 1.2 and therefore cannot connect to eduroam.
Examples include:
- Amazon Alexa
- Google Mini
- PlayStation
- Nintendo Switch
- Older Xbox consoles
- Basic Kindle Readers
- Older Apple TV models
This aligns with the University's existing BYOD policy.
I can't install the Marvis Client app. How do I get onto eduroam Wi-Fi?
The Marvis Client app is required for connecting personal devices to eduroam. If you cannot install it, ensure your operating system is up to date and that your device has sufficient storage available.
I don't want to keep the Marvis Client app on my phone. Can I uninstall it?
You must keep the Marvis Client app installed to connect to eduroam on your personal device. Removing the app will prevent connection to the service.
Why does the Marvis Client app ask for permission to access my location?
Android requires location permissions for applications that access Wi-Fi information. You should allow this permission for the app to function correctly. Location access is the only permission requested.
Can I have more detailed information about the data that Marvis Client collects from my device?
The information collected helps DTS understand network performance and includes:
- Detailed Wi-Fi properties including OS version, radio hardware and driver versions.
- Coverage issues caused by differences between device and access point signal readings.
- Cellular or Wi-Fi transitions and signal strength.
- Roaming behaviour and how devices select access points.
Information is used solely to improve network visibility and troubleshooting. It is not shared with third parties outside the Juniper environment.
Juniper Networks states that:
- The Marvis Client installs wireless and certificate profiles only after authentication.
- Juniper Mist does not share personal data with third parties.
- Device identity is managed securely within the Juniper Mist cloud.
Further information: Juniper Mist Marvis Client Overview
Data protection: Where is the data held and processed?
Data is retained by DTS for 12 months and access is restricted to a small number of authorised team members.
University of Reading data is hosted and processed within the UK through Mist AI cloud services.
Further information: Mist AI Cloud Service Description
I still have concerns - what is the app monitoring?
The Marvis Client gathers Wi-Fi telemetry, operating system version information, and wireless radio details.
It is not:
- Spyware
- Mobile Device Management (MDM)
- Endpoint security software
- Tracking software
- A monitoring application
The application does not:
- Read personal content
- Track browsing activity
- Access files or applications
- Monitor messages
- Provide security oversight
- Collect location beyond Wi-Fi telemetry requirements
How do eduroam guest accounts for visitors (EVA) work?
There is no change. Visitors continue to use EVA account credentials (username and password) to connect to eduroam.
What about people visiting from other institutions? Do they need the app just for Reading?
There is no change. Visitors from other institutions continue to use their own institution's credentials.
If they already use Marvis Client at their home institution, their device can connect without additional authentication.
What happens when I visit an institution with eduroam?
The Marvis Client will manage the connection for you. In most cases this will be the same seamless experience currently provided when connecting to eduroam at other institutions.