Boyden Library
Boyden Library Wireless Internet Access Policy and
FAQ
The Boyden Library offers
free high-speed wireless access to the Internet to library patrons with
appropriately equipped wireless devices.
The wireless network is fully IEEE802.11b/11g compatible. The service is
available daily during library hours, and the network can be accessed from most
areas within the library.
Wireless access in the
Children’s Room is available only to children and their accompanying parents or
caregivers. Children ages 17 and under
must have signed permission from their parent or guardian on file at the
library Parents and caregivers are encouraged to supervise children’s Internet
activity.
When you access the Internet
from any Boyden Library network or computer, you are agreeing to abide by the
Boyden Library’s Internet Policy. Please review this policy before accessing
the wireless network.
Library patrons need only to
launch a web browser to establish a connection to the Boyden Library Wireless Network,
recognized simply as “Boyden” by your device. Your browser’s homepage will
appear and you may begin surfing immediately. If your device does not connect
see the appropriate FAQ below.
Advantages of the Boyden Library Wireless Network
* No waiting for an
available public PC
* No enforced time limits;
connect for as long as you like
* Available at study tables
and in the library’s Quiet Study Area
* Fast broadband connection
* Ability to download files
* Save files permanently to
your own device
Limitations of the Boyden Library Wireless Network
* No printing services
available at this time
* A
wireless network is less secure than a wired network (see FAQ below)
* Signal strength varies
within the library
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do I need to connect to the wireless network in
the library?
You will need a
WiFi-compliant 802.11 b/11 g wireless Ethernet device installed in your laptop.
Most new laptops are already configured for wireless. You will also need a web
browser, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer, or Mozilla Firefox.
Is it difficult to connect to the wireless network?
Not usually. Most laptops
that come configured for wireless access can automatically pick up the wireless
signal. The following settings should be used:
SSID or network name: Boyden
WEP:
disable
TCP/IP or Network Settings:” DHCP enabled” or “obtain an IP address
automatically”
DNS:
obtain DNS address automatically
Gateway:
no default gateway set – your card should detect it automatically
Will I need any special settings or passwords to
connect?
No special encryption
settings, user names, or passwords are required.
Is technical support available from the library
staff?
No. Technical support from
the library staff is not available. You must be familiar with your device and
know how to set it up for wireless access.
Where is the wireless access available?
Network access is available
from most areas inside the library.
What speed is the internet connection?
The wireless network
accesses the internet using a broadband high speed internet line. The speed of
this connection will vary based on the traffic; however speeds of 1 MB/sec are
typical.
Can I download large files?
The wireless bandwidth is
shared with all other wireless users in the library. To show consideration for
others' needs, we ask that you not download excessively large files, use
peer-to-peer file sharing programs, or access streaming audio/video.
Is my information safe while using wireless?
If you are accessing
sensitive business or personal information, your information is not protected
unless you are connected to a web page with encryption (stores, banks, etc.).
Can I search the Library Catalog and special
databases using wireless?
You can access the SAILS
Library Network catalog and databases using the following link: http://www.sailsinc.org/.
Database access requires a library
card and pin number.
The wireless access data
line is provided by COMCAST as a public service to the Boyden Library and its
patrons.
The Library takes no
responsibility for any damage caused to your laptop or handheld device from
configuration changes or software downloaded while accessing the Library’s
public wireless network.
Please update your
anti-virus software before connecting to the Internet.
Approved by the Boyden Library Board of
Trustees