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Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQs)
Do
you charge for this service? No.
How
do I connect? Ask
for login information at the Main Desk or the Reference Desk. In most cases, you will need to do nothing
more than open your browser. This will
load the Library’s login page. After
reading the Library’s wireless access guidelines, login using the form
at the
bottom of the page . 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. You can find some
helpful information here.
Ask
for login information at the Main Desk or the Reference Desk. These logins will be changed periodically. If your login is invalid, visit one of the
desks for the latest login.
Why
are you providing this service? Wireless
access allows Library users to bring their own computers to the Library
and to
get Internet access as part of the Rochester Public Library's
commitment to
provide educational, intellectual, cultural, and recreational resources
and
services. Wireless is an additional
method for the Library to provide access the Internet's vast array of
unique and
diverse resources for information, ideas and commentary from around the
world.
What
is WiFi? WiFi
is radio wave technology which allows an appropriately equipped device
to
access the Internet and Library resources from within the Library
without
physically plugging into 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
connection to
the Internet so you can:
Where
is it? The
wireless access point is located on the second floor of the Library, in
the
Reference area.
What
do I need? You
need a laptop equipped with an IEEE 802.11a, b, or g compatible
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.
See the Main Desk for details.
Can
the Library help me configure my computer? Library
staff are not permitted to provide direct assistance configuring
laptops. The
Library 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.
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? Yes, there is a black and white printer configured on the wireless network. Please ask for details at the Reference Desk. Printed pages cost 10 cents apiece.
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.
What
if I have problems? Library
staff is not able to provide detailed 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.
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. The Rochester Public 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.
The
Library’s wireless management device temporarily stores your computers
unique
MAC address. This is purged daily. No personal information is collected,
stored, or shared.
Advantages
of Rochester Public Library WiFi access: No waiting for a free
public PC. Fast broadband
connection. Download files. Save files permanently to
your own device.
Limitations
of WiFi: A WiFi network is less
secure than a wired network. Signal strength varies within the Library. |