Wi-fi Wireless Internet Access

What is wi-fi?
Wi-Fi stands for Wireless Fidelity. We use it here to describe our wireless Internet access.

Is it free?
Yes, using our wi-fi is free. Printing costs the same as from other computers in the library.

What is a wi-fi hotspot?
A wi-fi hotspot is any place where you can get a wireless signal. You should be able to go anywhere in the library and get a wi-fi signal.

May I use my own computer and connect to the library wi-fi?
Your laptop computer will need a wireless card in order to connect with our wi-fi. If it is properly configured, your laptop should automatically recognize the wireless network and connect with it. The library cannot guarantee that your equipment will work with our network. You can also check out a laptop at the Circulation Desk - they are configured to access the wi-fi. Once connected to the network, we recommend using Microsoft Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Netscape Navigator as your browser.

Where can I sit to pick up a stronger signal in the library?
Wireless access points have been installed on every floor and signal strength is typically strong throughout the entire building. The speed of the wireless network may slow down at times of heavy usage.

Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect to Wi-Fi?
If you are using your own laptop or wireless device with a wireless network card, no special encryption settings, user names, or passwords are required. Our network supports 802.11b/g & 802.11g only. When using one of the library laptops from the Circulation Desk, you will need to login using the appropriate username which is provided to you at the time you checkout a laptop.

Is my information safe while using wireless?
Your information is not protected while using wireless unless you are connected to a web page that employs encryption (stores, banks, etc.). Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information.

Are there any restrictions on my use of the Internet?
When connecting to the Internet you are agreeing to abide by University of Central Oklahoma Computer and Network Usage Policy which prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Internet. In addition, users of library laptops are financially responsible for any laptop loss or damage. Late fees also apply to library laptops if returned after the time they are due.

Can I search the library catalog and databases using wireless?
Yes. From the library website, click “Search Catalogs” or “Search Databases” just as you would from any other computer in the library or at home.

Can I print while using wireless?
Yes, but you cannot print directly to our printers. Save your files to a storage media (we recommend a Flash Drive, but you may also use a floppy disk or CD), then go to the Express Print Station computer in front of the Reference Desk. You may also email files to your email account, then login to any library computer and send print jobs to a printer.

Can the library help me configure my computer?
Sorry, everyone's computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings.

Wireless Networking – Step by Step

If you have used your laptop or wireless device on other wi-fi networks, you typically only need to turn on your wireless network card and connect to the library’s wi-fi network (look for the network named “UCO”). The following steps describe how to configure your computer for wireless usage. Your specific wireless card and associated software may be different. Consult your user manuals or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Your computer must be set to dynamic “DHCP network addressing” mode.
Here’s how to check or change the current network settings.

Connecting to the wi-fi using Windows 2000 and XP

• Click on “Start”
• Go to “Settings” then “Control Panel”
• Double click on “Network and Dial-up Connections” or “Network Connections”
• Right-click on all Local Area Connections, click on “Properties”
• In “Components checked are being used by this connection” select “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)”
• Click on “Properties”
• Select “Obtain an IP address automatically”
• Click on “OK”
• Click on “OK”
• Restart computer

If are still unable to connect, do the following:

• Click on "Start", "Run" and type cmd, hit the Enter key. (a command window will appear)
• Then type ipconfig and hit the Enter key.
• Type in ipconfig /release and hit the Enter key.
• Type in ipconfig /renew and hit the Enter key.
• Exit the window and launch your web browser to start surfing!

Connecting to the Network using Windows 98

• Click on “Start”
• Go to “Settings” then “Control Panel”
• Double click on “Network”
• Select the network component associated with the wi-fi device
• Click on “Properties”
• Select the “IP Address” tab
• Select “Obtain an IP address automatically”
• Click “OK” twice.
• Restart computer

If are still unable to connect do the following:

• Click on “Start”, “Run” and type winipcfg, click “OK”. The IP Configuration window will appear.
• Click on “Release All”, then “Renew All”
• Click “OK”

Connecting to the Network Using Mac OS 10. x

• At the "Apple menu", select "System Preferences" Select "Network." Verify that "Show": is set to "AirPort".
• Select the "TCP/IP" tab. The settings should appear as follows: Configure: Using DHCP. Leave all else blank.
• Click "Save".
• Under "System Preferences", select "Quit System Preferences." Launch Your Web Browser and start surfing!

Limitations and Disclaimers

• The library's wireless network is not secure. Information sent to and from your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software.
• 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.