Wireless Internet Access

Curtis Memorial Library offers free Walk-In-Wireless Internet access to users with appropriately equipped wireless devices. The “WiFi Zone” has been designed to support a wide-range of 802.11b and 802.11g laptops, PDA, and other devices. When you access the Internet via any Curtis Library network, wireless or cabled, you are agreeing to abide by the Library's Internet Use Policy . Please take the time to review these policies before accessing the network.

Advantages of the Curtis Memorial Library WiFi Zone:

• No waiting for a free public PC
• No enforced time limits…connect for as long as you like
• Spread out at a larger table in a quieter area of the building*
• Fast broadband connection
• Download files
• Save files permanently to your own device

*Exception: The 1904 Reading Room (old library) is out-of-bounds for all electronic devices.

Limitations of WiFi:

• No printing services available at this time
• A WiFi network is less secure than a wired network (see FAQ below)
• Signal strength varies within the Library

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is WiFi?

WiFi is radio wave technology which allows an appropriately equipped device to access the Internet and library resources from within the Curtis Memorial Library without physically connecting to a network via Ethernet or a phone line.

What can I do with it?

When you are connected to our wireless network you have a high speed connectionto the Internet so you can:
Do online research.
Check the library catalog
Access the library's databases
Check your e-mail.

Where is it?

All public areas of the new Library building have wireless coverage. The 1904 building, however, remains a technology-free zone so it has no WiFi coverage.

What do I need?

You need a laptop (or suitable PDA) equipped with an IEEE 802.11b or 802.11g compatible (Wi-Fi) wireless network card. Some laptops have wireless cards built-in, for most others you can purchase a compatible card to plug into your computer. Installation of the card and its associated software will vary depending on specific computer, card, and operating system.

What if I don't own a laptop?

If you don't own a laptop you can't use the wireless network but you can access the Internet using the Library's public access computers; sign-up may be required for the use of these workstations.

Can the library help me configure my computer?

Library staff are not permitted to provide direct assistance configuring laptops. The Curtis Memorial Library System cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings.You are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment.

Some helpful tips are included on this page. If you need additional help, reference librarians can assist you in locating local computer stores or other information resources or you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware or software.

What are the guidelines for use?

While using our network (either wired using our computers or wireless using your own) you agree to be bound by our Internet Use Policy. In simple terms you agree not to interfere with or disturb other patrons (use headphones if necessary), and not to use our network to harass other people or break the law.

Do you charge for this service?

No.

Why are you providing this service?

Wireless allows library users to bring their own computers to the library and to get Internet access.
Wireless enables the library system 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 most * tables or chairs in the library and are not limited to the normal computer areas of the library.

* Please note that laptops and other electronic equipment are not allowed in the 1904 Reading Room.

How do I connect?

In most cases, a connection will be automatic and you will need to do nothing more than just open your browser and start surfing. Details of configuring your computer for wireless networking will vary depending on the specific models of laptop, operating system, and wireless network card, and are therefore beyond the scope of this brief pamphlet.

I have Microsoft Outlook Express. How do I set up an e-mail account?

Full instructions for configuring your system are available from the Maine School and Library Network site. The outgoing SMTP e-mail address is mail.msln.net.

Must I register?

No. We have decided to try offering access without requiring any registration; if there are problems with unrestricted access we may reconsider registration.

Does the number of people using the wireless network effect the network speed?

Yes, the larger the number of concentrated users the slower the speeds will be.

Can I download large files?

The bandwidth available for the wireless Internet connection is shared with all others in the Library. To show consideration for others' needs, we ask that you not download excessively large files or access streaming audio/video.

Can I print from the wireless network?

No, there are no printers configured on the wireless network. To print you should either save your document and print when you get home or sign-up to use one of the Library's public access computers (save document to be printed to disc or e mail it to yourself).

I can connect to the Internet, but how do I get help finding the information I'm looking for?

If you have questions about accessing the Library's reference databases or about finding specific information on the Internet, you should ask at the Reference Desks.

Is the WiFi network secure?

No, but wireless networks are not unique in that respect; on all shared networks, whether wired or wireless, users can potentially eavesdrop on each other's data, though it is not usually likely that they will. Whenever it is appropriate and practical, you should use additional methods to secure your data. If you are transferring confidential information (passwords, credit card numbers, online banking information, health data and so on) you are strongly encouraged to use secure web sites (SSL) or other techniques (SSH, VPN) to safeguard your confidentiality. Curtis Memorial Library is not responsible for insuring the privacy of information you transfer over our network.

Due to the fundamentally insecure nature of public computer networks, the Library does not recommend the use of its terminals for online shopping, ordering merchandise, or electronic banking. The Library does not prohibit these activities, but (1) does not ensure the provision of secure connections to support them; (2) does not provide support or troubleshooting for any electronic financial transactions; and (3) is not liable for these personal financial transactions.

What about viruses and hackers? Is the information on my laptop safe from hackers while I am connected?

Connecting your computer to the Internet via our wireless network can expose your computer to the same viruses and other security risks as any other Internet connection. You are responsible for ensuring that your computer is protected against such threats: you use the library's wireless network at your own risk.Utilizing virus protection, personal firewall, and other measures to protect the information on your laptop is highly recommended.

Do you collect or log data about my session?

Curtis Memorial Library neither collects nor stores any other information about you, your computer, or the data you transfer over our network.

What if I have problems?

Library staff is not able to provide technical assistance and no guarantee can be provided that you will be able to make a wireless connection. The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for laptop configurations, security, or data files resulting from connection to the Library's network.

Is it safe?

Yes. Wireless networking uses very low power signals in the same frequency band as many cordless phones, and manufacturers design their equipment to fall well within industry safety guidelines. Experts generally agree that WiFi technology is very safe when used appropriately.

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.

Wireless Card Settings:
Use the software that came with your wireless card or computer to configure the settings and to verify a connection to the library’s wireless network.
SSID (network name) = “any” (without quotes)
WEP = disable WEP encryption
Mode or Network Type = Infrastructure mode or Access Point
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.” Select the name of the wireless network available at the library and click “Connect.” Please ask library staff for network name.

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.
Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.

Outgoing mail address: mail.msln.net