Wireless Internet @ the Library

Ocean County Library offers free wireless internet access at all branches. To learn how to use your wireless device at the library, check out our FAQs or read and print detailed instructions (the detailed instructions are for Windows XP).

NOTE: Each device is different; these instructions provide general procedures.

FAQs

The answers to the following frequently asked questions should provide the information you need to use your wireless device at the Ocean County Library.

Q. Where can I use my wireless device?
A. There are enough access points at each location to provide wireless access anywhere in the building. Wireless access is not filtered; however, all Library Internet policies still apply. If you use your computer for a purpose that violates our policies, you will be asked to stop using your laptop.

Q. How can I use wireless Internet at the Library?
A. The Library’s wireless network allows access using standard wireless protocols IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g. Most users can simply bring their wireless-enabled laptop computer or other wireless device to the Library and the device will automatically recognize the wireless network. Your device will receive a signal which our wireless network broadcasts indicating that it is available. You may still need to open your wireless management software and indicate which wireless access point you wish to use for your connection.

If your laptop does not have wireless built-in, you can install a wireless network card. These are available at any store selling computer hardware. While most wireless devices should be compatible with our network, the Library cannot guarantee your equipment will work.

Q. Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
A. No passwords are required and you will probably not need to change any of the settings on your computer. However, if you are unable to make a connection to our network, please check the following:

1. Make sure your wireless network adapter has been properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Use the management software that came with your wireless device to confirm that your configuration settings match the values shown below. If you need to make changes, be sure to copy your current settings so that, if necessary, you can reset them later.

NETWORK NAME or (SSID):  An SSID is not required*
NETWORK MODE: Infrastructure
WEP: Disabled
IP or NETWORK SETTINGS: “DHCP enabled” or “Obtain an IP address automatically”
DNS: Obtain DNS address automatically

3. Save any changes and restart your device if required.

*Our wireless network will broadcast its SSID. Your device should automatically find it.

Q. Can the library help me configure my computer?
A. We’re sorry, everyone's computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. 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 hardware or software manufacturer.

Q. Is my information safe while using wireless?
A. In order to simplify the steps required for our customers to connect to our wireless network, we have not implemented any type of wireless encryption. Unless you are connecting to a web page that employs some type of encryption such as SSL, your information will not be protected. Most stores, banks, etc. that allow you to make transactions online will use encryption whenever sensitive data like credit card information is being sent. Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information. We recommend you use up to date antivirus software, a personal firewall and turn off file and printer sharing. The Library is not responsible for the security of your data or computer when using our network.

Q. Can I print while using wireless?
A. Printing directly from your wireless device is not available. If you need to print, please save your work to a disk or email files to yourself at a web accessible email account such as Hotmail. Floppy drives are available on Word Processor and PCPlus computers. Web based email can be printed from any Internet PC. However, be aware that Internet PCs have limited software available for opening email attachments such as Word or Excel documents.