Q. What is wireless?

A. Wireless is internet access using radio frequencies instead of cables.

Q. How does it work?

A. Wireless connection at the Library reaches the Internet through our high speed broadband connection donated by Comcast. Access points located in the library communicate with your wireless device. When your wireless network card [ IEEE 802.11 b or g] senses a signal, a message appears on your screen indicating a wireless network is available. Open your web browser. A greeting screen appears (in place of your home page) asking you to sign in with the user name and password you obtain at the Circulation Desk. Use of the connection indicates your agreement to abide by the Library's Internet Public Use Policy & Guidelines. Copy available upon request and on our website.

Q. Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?

A. Please obtain the current password at the Circulation Desk. If your system does not automatically detect the wireless signal, you can alternatively connect wirelessly in Win XP as follows: click on START -->Control Panel--> Network Connections. Double click on the Hanson Public Library connection, or highlight it and click the connect button. Then go and open your internet browser, where you encounter the library sign- in page. This connection is good for one hour, after which you may have to sign in again. Or, if you are idle for 10 minutes while using the wireless connection, you may have to re-sign-in.
note: if you also have a dialup connection, it shouldn't be set to "always dial my default connection". LAN settings should be "automatically detect settings", the proxy server settings should be blank.

Q. Are there any restrictions on my use of the Internet?

A. Wireless users agree to abide by the Library's Internet Public Use Policy & Guidelines which prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Library's Internet service. Downloading large files [ software, large images, music, etc.] which adversely impact network performance may be terminated.

Q. Can I print while using wireless?

A. Printing is not currently available. If you need to print, please save your work to disk or e-mail files to yourself, then login to a library workstation and send print jobs to a connected printer.

For reasons of liability, our library staff cannot assist with problems related to your wireless device or assist in making changes to your device’s settings and/or configuration. The Library can not guarantee that your device will work with the Library’s wireless access points.

Transmitting personal information, such as credit card numbers and passwords, is not recommended, since the wireless network is not secure. The Library is not responsible for any damage caused to your hardware or software due to electric surges, security issues or consequences caused by viruses or hacking. Please take appropriate precautions when using this service.

All users are expected to use the Library’s wireless access in accordance with the Library’s Internet policy.