Jamf Connect is a cloud-based identity management solution that simplifies Mac login and password management for college-owned computers. This guide explains how to use Jamf Connect features and troubleshoot common issues.
Audience
This article is intended for faculty, staff, and student employees who use college-owned Mac computers managed by Information Technology.
Platform
Apple macOS 11 Big Sur or newer (college-managed devices)
Contents
Overview of Jamf Connect
Jamf Connect provides a seamless connection between your Mac and your Ithaca College network account. It replaces the standard macOS login screen with a Microsoft Single Sign-On interface, ensuring your Mac password stays synchronized with your network credentials.
Key benefits include:
- Single sign-on using your IC email credentials
- Automatic password synchronization between your Mac and network account
- Quick access to IC systems and support tools
- Enhanced security through multi-factor authentication support
Logging In with Jamf Connect
Important: You must use your full email address (username@ithaca.edu) to log in, not just your username.
When you start your Mac, you'll see the Jamf Connect login screen:
To log in:
- Enter your full IC email address in the format username@ithaca.edu
- Click Sign in
- Enter your network password when prompted
- Complete any multi-factor authentication requirements if prompted
Connecting to Network Before Login
You can connect to Wi-Fi directly from the login screen without signing in first. This is helpful when you need network access to authenticate.
- Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top-right corner of the login screen
- Choose an available wireless network from the list
- Enter the network password if required
Note: The eduroam network is not currently configured to work with Jamf Connect at the login screen. Use IC-Wireless or another available network instead.
Using Local (Offline) Login
If you cannot connect to the internet or the authentication servers are unavailable, you can still access your Mac using local login.
- Click the Local Login button at the bottom of the screen
- Enter your username (without @ithaca.edu)
- Enter your Mac password
Tip: Local login only works if you have successfully logged into the Mac at least once before while connected to the network.
To return to network login mode, click the Refresh button on the login screen.
Understanding FileVault Encryption
Jamf Connect automatically enables FileVault disk encryption on all faculty and staff Macs to protect sensitive data. This encryption:
- Runs silently in the background without user intervention
- Encrypts your entire hard drive to protect against data theft
- Stores recovery keys securely with IT for emergency access
If you forget your password completely, IT can use the FileVault recovery key to help you regain access to your Mac.
Using the Jamf Connect Menu Bar
Once logged in, the Jamf Connect icon appears in your menu bar, providing quick access to important tools and information.
Menu options include:
- Check Password: Verify your Mac and network passwords match
- Change Password: Update your network password through the IC Accounts portal
- Reset Password: Use self-service password reset if you've forgotten your password
- Get Help: Access IC remote support and chat systems
- Self Service: Install additional software and utilities
Managing Your Password
Checking Password Synchronization
To verify your passwords are synchronized:
- Click the Jamf Connect icon in the menu bar
- Choose Check Password
- Review the status message that appears
Changing Your Password
To change your IC network password:
- Click the Jamf Connect icon in the menu bar
- Choose Change Password
- The IC Accounts portal opens in your browser
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set a new password
- Jamf Connect automatically synchronizes the new password to your Mac
Resetting a Forgotten Password
If you've forgotten your password:
- Click the Jamf Connect icon in the menu bar
- Choose Reset Password
- Follow the Microsoft self-service password reset workflow
- Verify your identity using your configured recovery methods
- Jamf Connect synchronizes the new password automatically
Key Features and Benefits
Jamf Connect Login Features
- Cloud-based authentication using Microsoft Azure Active Directory
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enforcement for enhanced security
- Automatic local account creation during setup
- FileVault encryption management
- Network account linking with existing local accounts
- Mobile account to local account conversion (demobilization)
Jamf Connect Menu Bar Features
- Real-time password synchronization monitoring
- Direct access to on-premises network shares and services
- Quick links to IC Remote Help and Chat support
- Self-Service portal access for software installation
- Account status and connection information
Common Issues and Solutions
Cannot Log In
- Verify you're using your full email address (username@ithaca.edu)
- Check your network connection - connect to IC-Wireless if needed
- Try Local Login if network authentication fails
- Contact the Service Desk if issues persist
Password Out of Sync
- Click the Jamf Connect icon in the menu bar
- Choose Check Password
- If passwords don't match, choose Change Password to resynchronize
Menu Bar Icon Missing
- Open Spotlight Search (Command + Space)
- Type Jamf Connect
- Press Enter to launch the application
- The icon should reappear in the menu bar
Getting Help
For assistance with Jamf Connect or Mac login issues, please reach out to the Ithaca College Service Desk.