FINAL SOLUTION: I was on Windows 11 but this would work on any similar platform when you connect to a wifi, and it tries to redirect you to their captive login page. If it refuses your connection, go to “Network & Internet” menu (right-click on your wifi icon). In the wifi menu, turn off the “Random hardware addresses.” This fix took about 10 minutes to figure out, and here’s what I learned:

  • When nothing else worked – disabling Windows network firewall, all browser cookie and pop-up blockers had no effect.
  • I was able to re-enable random hardware address once logged in, and all other security measures without getting kicked off, but now the gateway has my real identity.
  • I was able to disconnect and reconnect to this wireless network a second time without having to re-do the fix.
  • This is like a weak point, and I felt vulnerable, because they now had my identity, and it was to late to visually inspect gateway site to make sure I was actually on the hotel’s actual captive network before entering any information.
  • Other more computer-savvy users might have some safer way to log in.

You’re welcome.