The C-Pen Reader 3 connects to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks using WPA2-Personal or WPA2-Enterprise security. It cannot join 5 GHz-only networks, WPA3-only networks or networks that need a certificate or a web login page. Wi-Fi is optional: the pen reads aloud, defines words, saves text and records voice notes fully offline. Only translation into 40+ languages and over-the-air updates need a connection.
The Reader 2 and Exam Reader 2 have no Wi-Fi and need no network access.
Connect the pen
- Press Back a few times to return to the main menu.
- Press the M button to open the quick menu, then tap the Wi-Fi icon.
- If Wi-Fi is off, tap the switch in the top-right corner to turn it on.
- Scroll to the network you want and tap it.
- Enter the password with the on-screen keyboard.
- Tap the confirm button in the top-right corner and wait for the pen to connect.
If it won't connect
- Check the band. Ask IT whether a 2.4 GHz network is available. Some schools broadcast 5 GHz only.
- Check the security type. WPA2-Personal and WPA2-Enterprise work. WPA3-only and certificate-based networks don't.
- Try the guest network. Guest networks often allow new devices and use simpler security.
- Try a phone hotspot. If the pen connects to a hotspot, the pen is working and the school network is blocking it.
- Update the firmware. WPA2-Enterprise support arrived in firmware 1.0.03 (see updating firmware).
- Give IT the MAC address. Find it in Settings > System information.
For school IT teams
Share this section with your IT team, or download the one-page network note (PDF).
Network requirements
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi standard | IEEE 802.11 b/g/n |
| Frequency band | 2.4 GHz |
| Security | WPA2-Personal (PSK), WPA/WPA2 mixed mode, or WPA2-Enterprise (firmware 1.0.03 or later) |
| Not supported | 5 GHz-only networks, WPA3-only, certificate-based authentication, captive portal or proxy logins |
Firewall allowlist
The Reader 3 needs outbound access to these endpoints:
| Endpoint | Purpose |
|---|---|
| https://europe-west1-dictionary-api-190e9.cloudfunctions.net | Language services |
| https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com | Language services |
| https://firestore.googleapis.com | Language services |
| https://penotaupdate.blob.core.windows.net/cpen/* | Software updates |
Common fixes
- Create a separate 2.4 GHz WPA2 network for learning-support devices.
- Allowlist the pen's MAC address (Settings > System information).
- Allow the pen on the guest network.
- Check for device isolation, strict VLAN rules or proxy servers that need a login. The pen cannot sign in to a proxy.
Privacy note
The Reader 3 uses its connection for translation, language services and software updates. Text sent for online translation is processed by the manufacturer's online language services. If your school's privacy policy restricts this, keep the pen offline. It still reads aloud, defines words and saves text without a connection.
Frequently asked questions
Does the C-Pen Reader 3 need Wi-Fi?
No. It reads aloud, defines words, saves text and records voice notes offline, and reads five languages offline. Wi-Fi adds 40+ online languages, translation and automatic updates.
Why won't my Reader 3 connect to school Wi-Fi?
The most common reasons are a 5 GHz-only network, WPA3-only security or a login page. Ask IT for a 2.4 GHz WPA2 network, or try the guest network or a phone hotspot.
Does the Reader 3 work with WPA2-Enterprise?
Yes, on firmware 1.0.03 or later. Update the pen if it won't join an enterprise network.
Where do I find the Reader 3 MAC address?
In Settings > System information.
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