Wireless Internet Access
What is wireless Internet access?
It is the ability to access the Internet with a portable computing device, such as a
laptop computer, without having to plug into a wall outlet. Users are free to work with their own computers in areas of the library where Internet PCs are not available.
Who can use wireless access at the Northport-East Northport Public Library?
All Adults and Northport-East Northport Public Library teens and children who have parental permission with Access Level 3. Internet access levels for minors may be selected by a parent or guardian at the Circulation desk. All users must agree to the Library's Computer Access Policy prior to use.
What do I need?
You need a laptop computer with DHCP-enabled, a standard wireless or wired network interface card (NIC). Headphones are needed if you plan to use audio files or other multimedia applications. Consult your laptop manual for specifications.
What do these terms mean?
“DHCP” (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a protocol for dynamically assigning IP addresses to devices on a network. “Wi-Fi” (Wireless Fidelity) represents a type of wireless network access provided by the IEEE 802.11 (Institute of Electrical Engineers) networking standards. “802.11b” transmits data at speeds up to 11 Mbps (megabits per second) and can reach up to 300 feet if there are no obstructions. “802.11a” can transmit data at 54 Mbps, to five times faster then “802.11b”, but this speed is reduced as your range increases beyond 60 feet. “802.11g” is a new standard which can also transmit data at 54Mbps, but reaches up to 100 feet before the speed is reduced.
Does the library provide laptops or NIC cards?
No, patrons must supply their own.
Where can I get a Wi-Fi card?
Most new laptops come with Wi-Fi as a standard feature. Older laptops can be fitted with an 802.11a, 802.11b or 802.11g wireless network interface (NIC) card. Consult your laptop manual for specifications.
Where can I get help setting up my laptop for wireless access?
The library has books about PC hardware and software. If you are not familiar with computers or networking, we recommend bringing someone to the library that can help you configure your laptop. Reference and Circulation staff are not trained or equipped to configure laptop computers for users.
How can I tell whether the wireless network is working?
After your laptop has been properly configured, it should sense the wireless network as soon as you turn it on. If you don't get a response for two or three minutes, please “restart” your laptop and try again.
How long does my wireless connection last?
At the present time, there are no time limits. However, the Library reserves the right to disconnect any device to manage the wireless network and to provide equal opportunity for wireless access to all users.
Why does my computer work in the library, but no longer at home or at work?
If you changed your laptop's network configuration to make it work in the library, remember to change it back when you are at home or at work.
What speed is the wireless Internet connection at the Northport-East Northport Public Library?
The Northport-East Northport Public Library wireless network accesses the Internet through a 20 Mbps connection. The response time you see on your laptop also depends upon the size of the web page or file, the speed of the web site's
connection to the Internet, and the number of other wireless users transmitting data at the same time.
Can I use peer-to-peer file-sharing programs?
Some software programs on laptops will not work in the library. For network security reasons, certain types of wireless communication must be blocked. Examples that are likely to be affected include, but are not limited to, peer-to-peer file-sharing programs and VPN software. The library does not guarantee or support wireless access with any specific software program.
Is the information on my laptop safe from hackers while I am connected?
Utilizing virus protection, a personal firewall, and other measures to protect the information on your laptop is highly recommended, and is the sole responsibility of the laptop user. The Library is not responsible for any loss of information or damage to your laptop that might result from using the wireless network or other facilities in the Library.
Is my connection to the Internet secure and/or encrypted?
No. All information received by or sent from your laptop may be intercepted by anyone with the appropriate equipment. We recommend that users do not use this service to send any sensitive information, such as social security or credit card numbers.
How do I print from my wireless laptop?
Printers are not available via the wireless connection; if you need to print, save to a floppy disk or USB flash drive and use one of our public workstations to print.
