Auto-Login (formerly referred to as Smart Authentication) links a user’s device to their account. It automatically logs them in when they reach the Splash Page on returning visits, eliminating the need to re-enter credentials.
ℹ️ Software vs. Hardware Authentication: This article describes software-based Auto-Login, which executes automatically once the user lands on the Splash Page. Alternatively, you can implement hardware-based MAC Authentication (RADIUS bypass) to let users browse instantly without seeing the Splash Page at all.
Note: Unlike the standard software auto-login, hardware-based MAC Authentication is not included by default and requires both vendor compatibility and a specific Cloud4Wi license activation.
Prerequisites
This software feature relies on MAC-based identification. It requires an Access Point (AP) capable of forwarding the device's MAC address to the platform during the URL redirection.
How the Workflow Works
1. First-Time Access
When a user connects to the Wi-Fi for the first time, they go through the standard onboarding process (e.g., self-registration, social login) configured in your Cloud4Wi Dashboard. Once authentication is successful, Cloud4Wi securely records the device's MAC address in its backend database.
2. Subsequent Access
Upon returning to the venue, the user connects to the Wi-Fi network and opens the Splash Page. Instead of prompting for credentials, the portal instantly recognizes their device's MAC address, fires an automated access request to the RADIUS server, and logs the user online seamlessly.
Key Operational Notes
⚠️ Important Impact of MAC Randomization
Modern mobile operating systems (like iOS, Android, and Windows) utilize randomized MAC addresses ("Private Wi-Fi Addresses") by default. If a user resets their network settings, disables private addresses for the office SSID, or if the OS rotates the address, Cloud4Wi will treat the device as a brand-new visitor, requiring them to complete the first-time login flow again.
🚫 Logout Button Behavior
When Auto-Login is enabled, the manual Log out button is automatically hidden from the Splash Page template to prevent users from breaking the automated loop.