Wireless Internet Access Guidelines

You are invited to explore the Internet using your own wireless enabled device at the Greensboro Public Library. Free access is provided at all locations at all times the Library is open.

Wireless Internet access uses radio frequency signals to move information between your laptop computer and the Internet. No cables are required. This allows you to bring in your own computer and get Internet access, and allows the Library to offer more computer access than our existing floor space and wiring currently allows. You can use your wireless laptop at chairs and tables in the Library, rather than at our normal public computer areas.

Set up as: Network name (SSID) is Library, no password is needed, WEP encryption is off.

Limitations and Disclaimers
Hardware Requirements
Software Requirements
General Troubleshooting Hints
Wireless Internet Access Policy

Limitations and Disclaimers

• No printing is available.

• By using this free wireless service, you agree to abide by the Library’s Agreement for Acceptable Computer Use Policy and the Public Library Wi-Fi Internet Access Policy.

• Since all information moves over open radio frequencies, the Library’s wireless network is not secure. Any information you enter or display, including e-mail, can be captured by anyone with a wireless device and the appropriate software within several hundred feet. The Library strongly urges you not to enter passwords, PINs, account numbers or other private information while using the wireless network, and cautions that using the wireless network for e-mail may allow other people to read your e-mail. Use Web based e-mail that employs encrypted (https) access if you absolutely must use e-mail.

• The Library cannot supply technical support or troubleshooting beyond the helpful hints in this document if your equipment does not work with the Library wireless service.

• The Library is not responsible for any changes you make to your computer in order to use or attempt to use the Library wireless services.

• The Library assumes no responsibility for the security or safety of computer equipment you bring into the Library, and users must keep their equipment with them at all times.

• Turn off any audible sound if you use your laptop computers in the Library.

• Signal strength and performance will vary within the Library depending on the location of the equipment that produces the radio signals.

• Although the wireless Internet service is usually available, it is not guaranteed and during times of high use or technical problems, the wireless service may not be available.

• You need a WiFi-compliant 802.11b/g wireless Ethernet device installed in your laptop, or a laptop or device with built-in WiFi.

• The Library does not supply laptop computers. You must bring your own laptop computer to use the wireless services.

• The Library has a limited number of public tables and seating, and not all seating is within easy reach of electrical outlets, so be prepared to be self-powered. Do not block or cross aisles or floors with extension or power cords, and do not move chairs to electrical outlets.

• Use headphones if you use audio files.

• Most WiFi software and equipment will be compatible. However, the Library can make no guarantees as to the compatibility of your equipment with the Library’s network, and cannot supply technical support if you have problems.

(see below for specific operating system hints)

• Use a Web browser, such as Internet Explorer, Safari, Netscape or Firefox.

• The Library strongly urges the use of current virus and spyware protection and/or personal firewall software while using the wireless Internet.

• Use the software that came with your computer or wireless card to configure the settings and verify that you have a connection to the Library wireless services.

• SSID (network name) = Library.

• Turn off WEP encryption since the Library does not use any special encryption settings, user names or passwords (WEP = disable WEP encryption).

• Mode or Network Type = Infrastructure or Access Point (not Ad Hoc which permits other computers to connect directly to you!)

• Set your TCP/IP client software to obtain addresses automatically from a server (DHCP).

• Don’t set your wireless card to connect automatically to any available network (not secure).

• Refresh your DHCP address if you have trouble getting connected.

• Some wireless adapters have a physical switch (very small) that must be turned on in order to connect to the wireless internet.

• Most wireless software has an indicator that tells you a signal is being received. Make sure the link quality and signal strength are both “good.” If not, move around the Library to a location that has a stronger signal.

• If you have installed a PFS (Personal Firewall System), make sure that your PFS is not blocking Library wireless Internet access. You may need to authorize access or even disable the PFS while you are using this connection.

Troubleshooting Windows XP/2000

• You will need Administrative rights on your computer to make the following changes.

• In XP select Start -> Control Panel > Network Connections (depending on the set up, this may instead say Network and Internet Connections).

• In 2000 select Start -> Settings > Network and Dial-up Connections.

• Click on the icon for Local Area Connection.

• Click on Properties.

• In the General Information tab, highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click on Properties.

• In the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties box, click on Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.

• In XP, click Wireless Network Connection and select View Available Wireless Networks and select the Library wireless network.

• Click [OK] and close out all windows by clicking [OK].

• If prompted, you should restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

• If your laptop computer has previously been on another network, you may need to release your current addresses in order to pick up a new IP address from the Library.

• To release and renew IP addresses go to Start -> Run and type: cmd or command and press the Enter key. A command prompt window will appear. Type the following in the command prompt window:

ipconfig /release – releases an older ip address. You should get a notice that the address has been released.

ipconfig /renew – renews the ip address. After a brief moment, you should be notified that you have a new IP number associated with your NIC card. At this point you should be able to connect.

If your computer has acquired an IP address and you are showing being connected, but cannot access a website:

·         Click Start > Run, type in CMD and click OK.

·         At the command prompt of the CMD window that opens, type IPCONFIG.

·         If the DNS SERVERS IP address for your wireless connection is not 207.235.53.226, then you will have to:

o        Start > Control Panel > Network Connections (depending on the set up, this may say (Network and Internet Connections).

o        In 2000 select Start > Settings > Network and Dial-up Connections.

o        Right click on the icon for your wireless connection.

o        Click on Properties.

o        In the General Information tab, highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click the Properties button.

o        In the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties box, click on Use the following DNS server addresses:

Enter 207.235.53.226 in the Preferred DNS Server field (Remember to set this back to Obtain DNS Server address automatically when you leave the library.)

Troubleshooting Windows 95 and 98

• You will need Administrative rights on your computer to make the following changes.

• Select Start > Settings > Control Panel and select Network.

• Select the NIC card you are using under TCP/IP. If you have multiple TCP/IP components, select the one that is in use for your wireless connection.

• If you have more than one adapter, you may have to disable the one you are not using.

• Click on the correct card name to highlight it and then click on Properties.

• In the TCP/IP Properties box, click on the IP Address tab and click on Obtain an IP address automatically.

• Click on the DNS Configuration tab and click on Disable DNS.

• Click on the Gateway tab and confirm that there is no Installed gateway set, or remove any gateways if they exist (you probably want to copy down any information that you are removing for later use.)

• Select the WINS Configuration tab and select Use DHCP for WINS resolution.

• Click [OK] for all windows.

• You will be prompted to restart your computer for the changes to take effect. Save any work and click [Yes].

• If your laptop computer has previously been on another network, you may need to release your current addresses in order to pick up a new IP address from the Library.

• To release and renew IP addresses: go to Start > Run and type: WINIPCFG and press Enter. Click [OK]. The IP configuration window will appear.

• Click on the [More Info] button.

• Click on the [Release All] button to release the current IP address, click on the [Renew All] button.

Internet Explorer tips

(depending on your version of IE and OS there may be some variations)

• From the Control Panel, select Internet Options and the Connections tab.

• For those used to a dial-up connection, make sure Always dial my default connection is off.

• LAN Settings should be Automatically detect settings and leave the Proxy server setting blank.

Troubleshooting Macintosh OS 8 & 9

• Select Apple Menu > Control Panel > TCP/IP.

• Connect via Airport or other wireless (WiFi) Ethernet.

• Configure Using DHCP Server.

• Leave Name Server and Additional Search domains blank.

• Apply your changes.

• Using either the AirPort Control Strip Module > Wireless Network or the AirPort application (Choose Network > Wireless Network) make sure AirPort is ON and select Library from the list of available networks.

Troubleshooting Apple Macintosh OS X

• Select Apple Menu > System Preferences > Network icon.

• Select TCP/IP tab and set the Configure menu to Using DHCP.

• Above the TCP/IP tab make sure the Show: menu is set to Airport or other wireless (WiFi) ethernet. If AirPort does not show, choose Active Network Ports and activate it. Then choose AirPort in the Show menu.

• Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.

• Click on Refresh DHCP Address if available.

• Click on Apply Now.

• If you have an AirPort wireless network card installed, look for an icon shaped like a slice of pie on the top right side menu bar. Click on it and select Turn AirPort On to complete the set-up for a wireless connection.

• Using either the AirPort menu or the Internet Connect application, select a wireless network. You should choose Library as the selection on the menu or in the list of Networks.