Fairfield Public Library

Main Library

Fairfield Woods Branch


WiFi @ Fairfield Public Library

introduction | wifi specs | frequently asked questions | wifi definitions

A Brief Introduction

Thanks to the Friends of the Fairfield Public Library, wireless Internet (aka WiFi) access is now available at the Main Library and the Fairfield Woods Branch Library. If you have a wireless capable laptop or PDA and want to access the Internet from anywhere in the Library (except the lower level), simply bring it in and turn it on. Our wireless network is designed for ease of use. There are no "WEP keys" to deal with and we do not encrypt any of the traffic on this network.

Privacy

As with our public PCs, we do not recommend any online banking, investing or purchasing. Your credit card and other vital information are not encrypted on our network and anyone with a basic knowledge of wireless hacking can access any data sent over this network. THE LIBRARY IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSS OF DATA OR FUNCTIONALITY THAT MAY ARISE FROM USING YOUR EQUIPMENT ON OUR UNSECURED PUBLIC NETWORK. USE OF OUR WIRELESS NETWORK IS DONE AT YOUR OWN RISK!

Problems

Should you experience any problems, limited assistance is available at the Reference Desk. Staff cannot provide technical support for patrons using their own devices. You may need to refer to your owner's manual or to contact the support services provided by the manufacturer of your device.

Printing

If you need to print while using our wireless network, you will need to save your data to a floppy disk or USB memory key (aka USB memory stick) and then use our wired computers to print. Floppy disks are available at the Reference Desk for $1.00 each. USB Memory keys and Wireless Network Adaptors can be purchased just about anywhere (Staples, Office Max, CompUSA, etc.)

introduction | wifi specs | frequently asked questions | wifi definitions

WiFi Technical Specs:


You will need a computer or other device with a wireless card or built in wireless capability - which supports the 802.11b Protocol.

Use the following configuration for your wireless device's software:

  • Network Name (SSID):
    • for Fairfield Woods Branch Library: woodswifi
    • for the Main Library: mainwifi
  • WEP Key: none
  • Encryption Scheme: none

Network settings should be set to "obtain IP address automatically" or "use DHCP".

Please make sure that you have turned off file sharing while using our WiFi network.

introduction | wifi specs | frequently asked questions | wifi definitions

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What do I need to utilize the wireless network?

How can I tell if my laptop is wireless capable?

Why is the Library using the 802.11b protocol? What about 802.11a or 802.11g?

Is the wireless network available 24/7?

Is the wireless network secure?

How does this wireless network affect the Library's wired network?

How many users are supported on this network?

Is there a printer available on this network?

Does the Library supply power outlets in case my batteries run out?


Q: What do I need to utilize the wireless network?

A: Any IEEE 802.11b compatible device (laptop, PDA) can connect to our wireless network.

Return to top


Q: How can I tell if my laptop is wireless capable?

A: Please check with your hardware manufacturer or place of purchase. If this is not an option, you can look for 'Network Adaptors' within the Device Manager in Windows.

Return to top


Q: Why is the Library using the IEEE 802.11b protocol? What about 802.11a or 802.11g?

A: The Library chose 802.11b as it is the most widely used protocol for WiFi. Although newer protocols offer faster access speeds, 802.11b is still faster than our Internet connection, so users will not see any degradation in performance.

Return to top


Q: Is the wireless network available 24/7?

A: No. Our wireless network can be accessed during library hours.

Return to top


Q: Is the wireless network secure?

A: No. In order to provide the most convenient means of accessing the Internet with your laptop, we have turned off all encryption. We do not recommend any online banking, investing, purchasing or anything where your passwords or private information are sent over this unsecure network.

Return to top


Q: How does this wireless network affect the Library's wired network?

A: The Library is using Business Class Optimum Online to provide wireless access to the Internet. It does not connect to our network in any way. Users on the wireless network accessing the Library's electronic resources will act as though they were accessing the Library from home or work, even though they are in the building.

Return to top


Q: How many users are supported on this network?

A: This network should be able to handle an unlimited number of users, however the more users on at the same time, the slower access to the Internet will be. Chances are, we will never go over capacity and you will never see any degradation in performance.

Return to top


Q: Is there a printer available on this network?

A: No. If you want to print while at the Library, you will have to sign up to use one of our wired computers and then print to the printers available on that network.

Return to top


Q: Does the Library supply power outlets in case my batteries run out?

A: There are various power outlets throughout the building. We will make extra outlets available in the Adult Reference area study carrels.

Return to top



library catalog | research | children | teens | branch | events/registration | about/services | contact us
Library Catalog Library Catalog Research Events/Registration About/Services Contact Us Search Our Site Home Site Map