Is it difficult to connect to the wireless network?
Not usually. Most laptops that come configured for wireless access can automatically pick up the wireless signal. If yours does not, you will have to know how to use your wireless device's configuration software to connect to the wireless network. The library uses the WiFi standard known as 802.11b and 802.11g.
Why can't I get a Wi-Fi signal, but the person next to me can?
Not all wireless cards are the same. The quality of your card versus your neighbor's can be quite different.
Will my Macintosh work with wireless in the library?
Yes, as long as it supports 802.11b or 802.11g wireless.
Do I need special software or drivers to connect?
While you won't need special software, up-to-date drivers have remedied many connection problems. The drivers included with the card may be quite old. Updates are usually available on the vendor's website.
How long does my connection last?
We have not implemented any sort of time limit presently; however, we reserve the right to do so at a later date.
Is there a charge to connect to the wireless network in the library?
There is no charge for using the library's wireless network with your wireless device.
Can I connect to the printer via the wireless network?
No, the wireless network is not connected to the library's public printer. If you need to print, save the data on your computer to print it from home or work, or copy the data to a floppy disk and take the disk to a word processor. Printing is 5 cents per page.
Why does my wireless network connection speed vary?
There are several possibilities including:
- Your distance from the access point and/or obstructions that might be in the way.
- The number of people using the connection. Since a wireless network is a shared network, if several people are using the network then users might see slower connections.
If you experience a connection problem try moving to a different part of the library or within sight of an access point (the library has two on the adult side).
Is my information safe while using wireless?
The library's wireless network is not secure and the library cannot guarantee the safety of your traffic across its wireless network. Information sent to or from your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and appropriate software, within up to three hundred feet. Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information.
Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
No, the library's wireless network is open to everyone. No special encryption settings, user names, or passwords are required.
Since I’m using my own equipment, do the general rules about computer use still apply to me?
YES! - you still must abide by the Hudson Area Joint Library Computer & Internet Use Policy (found at the web address http://www.hudsonpubliclibrary.org/policies.htm). Any activities deemed illegal apply to you whether or not you are on a library-owned computer or your own computer.
What about virus protection and security?
It is solely the responsibility of the wireless device owner/user to provide anti-virus protection, and to configure their laptop/PDA settings to provide the appropriate security settings to control access from other wireless devices within the library and the Internet itself. The library cannot and will not take responsibility for damages incurred for incorrect, insufficient or incomplete security settings; or lack of adequate or up-to-date virus protection. Wireless users assume all risks in this regard.
Can the library help me configure my computer?
No - everyone's computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware or software. The library staff cannot provide any help beyond this FAQ sheet.
Tips for Windows XP users
You must have a wireless card installed properly on your computer for the connection to function properly. If your laptop does not connect to our network automatically, try these tips to establish a connection.
- Select Start > Control Panel > Network Connections
- Right click on Wireless Network Connection
- Left click on Properties, then click on the Wireless Network Tab
- In the window you should see "available wireless networks"
- Choose the one that applies to the library location you are currently at
- Be sure the small box is checked allowing you to connect to the selected wireless network then click “Connect “
Tips for Macintosh users
Network Settings (OS 8 & 9):
- Select: Apple Menu > Control Panel > TCP/IP.
- Connect via "AirPort" or other wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet.
- Configure "Using DHCP Server."
- Leave Name Server and Additional Search domains blank.
Network Settings (OS X):
- Select: Apple Menu > System Preferences > Network button.
- Select TCP/IP tab and Configure "Using DHCP."
- Above the TCP/IP tab, you may need to Configure via "AirPort" or other wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet.
- Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.
Please be aware that:
- Due to insurance limitations and warranties, library staff is not allowed to configure users' laptop or handheld computers or install any devices or software on those computers. Library staff is not able to provide technical assistance for laptops, cards or configurations. If you need assistance, contact the manufacturer of your laptop or software.
- Anti-virus, security, and privacy protection is the responsibility of the user.
- The library assumes no responsibility for any alterations or interference with a laptop's configuration, operation, or data files resulting from connection to the library's wireless network.
- The library is not responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings.
- The library assumes no responsibility for damage, theft, or loss of any kind to a user's equipment, software, data files or other personal property brought into or used at the library.
- The library cannot guarantee that the service will be available at any specific time or that the connection will have any specific quality or speed; there is no guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
- The connection shall not be used for illegal or capacity-hogging purposes, nor shall it be used in such a way to violate library policies.