Wireless Network FAQ

Q. Where can I access the Library's wireless network?
A. The network is accessible anywhere in the Library.

Q. What do I need to access the Library's wireless network?
A. You need a laptop computer and a Wireless Network PC Card. After you purchase the card, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it on your computer. This should involve installing the network card driver and also a client utility program. This program will allow you to configure the settings for your network connection, monitor signal strength, and perform other useful tasks.

Q. What kind of wireless card do I need?
A. You need an 11Mbps 812.11b Wireless Network Card for your laptop. For PCs we recommend Orinoco Silver, made by Lucent. Based on online user opinions, Cisco Aironet and Netgear brands should also work well, but Linksys, SMC, D-Link or U.S. Robotics brands may be problematic, especially for Windows XP users. For Apple notebooks, their Airport card is recommended. Most cards are available for about $70 at local computer stores or one of the many online computer stores.

Q. What are the minimum requirements for my laptop (PC and Apple)?
A. You should be limited only by the wireless network card you buy. The drivers and software to operate the card must be compatible with your system. See the card's packaging and documentation for compatibility and minimum requirements.

Q. What settings do I use?
SSID or Network Name: ANY
WEP: disabled IP or Network Settings: DHCP enabled or obtain an IP address automatically
DNS: obtain DNS address automatically
Gateway: no default gateway set - your card should detect it automatically
Close settings and restart computer if necessary

Q. If there are too many users, will I be blocked from using the wireless network?
A. A pool of resources has been set aside large enough to accommodate users at the library. You will not be "blocked" from accessing the network because of too many users.

Q. What speed is the Internet connection?
A. The Library has a DSL line. However as with any Internet connection, your speed may fluctuate greatly due to heavy traffic on the Internet at different times of day.

Q. Can I download large files?
A. The bandwidth available for the wireless Internet connection is shared with all others in the Library. To show consideration for others' needs, we ask that you not download excessively large files or access streaming audio/video.

Q. What are the limitations on the wireless network?
A. No FTP or file sharing.