Arlington Public Library & Community Information

Wireless Internet Access @ the Library

The George W. Hawkes Central Library now has free wireless Internet access! You can bring your wireless-ready laptops or other portable devices with you and connect to the Internet anywhere in the library with no waiting. Simply sit down, start up, and get on to the World Wide Web. Connection information is available at the Reference Desks.

Wireless access allows library patrons to use their own computers at the library and still connect to the Internet. This allows library users to work from most tables and carrels within any Arlington Public Library branch without waiting. We ask that WiFi users remember that the Library is a public area with children and other patrons. The spirit of the Arlington Public Library Computer Use Policy standards apply to all computers within the library.

What is wireless?

Wireless Internet access uses radio frequency signals instead of cables to connect computers and devices to the Internet.

Why wireless?

Wireless allows library patrons to use their own computers at the library and still connect to the Internet. This allows library users to work from most tables and carrels within any Arlington Public Library branch without waiting.

Do the general rules about computer use still apply?

Yes, the Arlington Public Library Computer Use Policy applies to all computers within the library.

What about virus protection and security?

Virus protection and privacy security is not provided by the library. Users are encouraged to have firewall and virus protection software installed on their computers before using the wireless Internet connection.

How do I use wireless at the library?
The Arlington Public Library System uses the WiFi standard (also known as IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g). Speed will vary by location and number of users.

You will need your own laptop computer or wireless device with built-in WiFi or you will need to install a WiFi network card.

Printers are not available to wireless users in the library.

Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
No, the library's wireless network is open to all visitors.
No special encryption settings, user names, nor passwords are required.

Can the library help me configure my computer?
No - library staff are not able to provide technical assistance.
If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware or software.

Technical Settings and Help
NOTE: It is best to try to use the Internet before attempting any of the changes suggested here. These instructions are general guidelines and require that you understand how to configure and restore the settings of your own computer.

Library Connection Settings

Network name or SSID = coa-online
Network mode = Infrastructure
WEP = disabled
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

Macintosh OS X
Network Settings:

Select: Apple Menu > System Preferences > Network button.
Select TCP/IP tab and Configure "Using DHCP."
Above the TCP/IP tab, you may need to Configure via "AirPort" or other wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet.
Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.

Windows 2000 & XP
Network Settings:

From Control Panel, select "Network and Dial-up Connections" or "Network and Internet Connections > Internet Connections."
Right-click on "Wireless Network Connection" and click Properties.
Locate the Internet TCP/IP protocol and click on Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
Select "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically."
For XP, right click on "Wireless Network Connection" and select "View Available Wireless Networks." Select the name of the wireless network available at your location in the library and click "Connect."