What is wireless Internet access – and how do I use it at the Library?
What is wireless?
- Wireless Internet access uses radio frequency signals to exchange information between your computer and the Internet.
- No cables are required.
Why wireless?
- Wireless allows library users to bring their own computers to the library and to get Internet access.
- Wireless enables the library to offer this service without having to go through the great expense of upgrading and installing new wiring.
- Library users can use their wireless laptop computers to get Internet access at any table or chair in the library and are not limited to the normal computer areas of the library.
How do I use wireless at the library?
- The Cedar Springs Public Library uses the WiFi standard (also known as IEEE 802.11b).
- You will need to bring your own laptop computer to the library and it will need to have built-in WiFi or you will need to install a WiFi network card.
- Most WiFi equipment will be compatible. However, the library system can make no guarantees as to compatibility of your equipment with the library’s network.
- Printers are not part of the Wireless Internet Access program in the library. If you need to print, please save the work to disk, then use a workstation and send print jobs to a printer.
Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
- No, the library’s network is open to all visitors.
- No special encryption settings, user names, nor passwords are required.
Can the library help me configure my computer?
- Sorry, everyone’s computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment.
- Some helpful tips are included on this page.
- 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.
General Information for all systems
NOTE: The following instructions are general guidelines and require that you understand how to configure and restore the settings of your own computer. It is best to try to use the Internet before attempting any of the changes suggested on this page.
Windows 98
Network Settings:
1. From Control Panel, select Network.
2. Locate the TCP/IP protocol and get into its Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
3. For IP Address, select “Obtain an IP address automatically.”
4. For DNS, select “Disable DNS.”
5. For WINS, select “Use DHCP for WINS Resolution.”
Windows 2000 & XP
Network Settings:
1. From Control Panel, select “Network and Dial-up Connections” or “Network and Internet Connections > Internet Connections.”
2. Right-click on “Wireless Network Connection” or “Local Area Connection” and click Properties.
3. Locate the Internet TCP/IP protocol and get into its Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
4. Select “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server address automatically.”
5. For XP, right click on “Wireless Network Connection” and select “View Available Wireless Networks.”
Windows NT
Network Settings:
1. From Control Panel, select Network.
2. Locate the TCP/IP protocol and get into its Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
3. Select “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server” and click OK.
Internet Explorer Tips:
Please note that depending on your version of software, there may be variations in the procedures.
1. From Control Panel, select Internet Options > Connections tab.
2. If you also have a dial-up connection, it should not be set to “Always dial my default connection.”
3. LAN Settings should be “Automatically detect settings” and leave the Proxy server settings blank.
Macintosh
Network Settings (OS 8 & 9):
1. Select: Apple Menu > Control Panel > TCP/IP.
2. Connect via “AirPort” or other wireless (WiFi) ethernet.
3. Configure “Using DHCP Server.”
4. Leave Name Server and Additional Search domains blank.
Network Settings (OS X):
1. Select: Apple Menu > System Preferences > Network button.
2. Select TCP/IP tab and Configure “Using DHCP.”
3. Above the TCP/IP tab, you may need to Configure via “AirPort” or other wireless (WiFi) ethernet.
4. Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.