WiFi Is Here: Wireless Internet Access at Bellmore Memorial Library
a service provided by

  Wireless Printing available for WIFI Users from our Kyocera Network COLOR LASER Printer

The Bellmore Memorial Library offers wireless "WiFi" access to the Library's Internet service for properly equipped laptops.
When you use the Internet in the Library you are accepting the library's Internet Access Policy (Acceptable Use Policy).
Please take the time to read the policy before accessing the network.

Advantages
No waiting for a free PC
No enforced time limits...connect as long as you like
Spread out at a larger table in a quieter area of the building
Fast access
Download files
Save your files permanently on your own device

Limitations
A WiFi network is less secure than a wired network (see below)
Signal strength varies within the Library

802.11b, Also Known as WiFi
Your laptop must conform to the "802.11b" standard, commonly known as "WiFi". New laptops often come standard with a wireless interface. These laptops usually come automatically configured to pick up the wireless signal. Older laptops with a PCMCIA slot or USB port can be fitted with a wired/wireless network interface card (NIC) for about $80 or even less. The library will have a limited supply of USB Wireless Adapters available for patrons with laptops that are not equipped with WIFI capability.

Where You Can Pick Up the Wireless Signal
This is a new service; most of the building will be wireless accessible, more information will be available later.

What You Will Need
Wireless network interface card (NIC) with WIFI Capability
Charged battery
Compatible headphones if you plan to use audio files

How Safe is WiFi?
The Internet is a public communications network, which means that there can be untrusted parties between you and anybody you communicate with. WiFi unplugs the Internet and makes personal security risks more visible. WiFi poses the same risks to your personal information that a wired network poses, as well as some new risks. WiFi users need to educate themselves about these risks, and take steps to secure their personal information. Cautious WiFi users may choose not to transmit their credit card information and passwords while using any WiFi "hotspot", including the Library's. The Library cannot assure the safety of your data when you use either our wired or wireless Internet access.

Wireless Technical Information
Wireless hardware and software varies as to the operating systems you may use on your laptop, so we can't give you precise instructions. In many cases, you need to do nothing to hook up (just click on Internet Explorer), but you might need to check the following in your wireless software:

The "Service Set Identifier" (SSID) should be set to "default"
Wherever your software ask for a "name" or "wireless area" or "access point name" insert "public" (all lower case!)
The "Wireless Mode" should be set to "Infrastructure" (not "ad hoc")
In Network Neighborhood Properties (right click on Network Neighborhood and click on "Properties") click on the Wireless TCP/IP adapter setting and look at its properties. Ensure that you have checked "Obtain an IP address automatically."
If you use Windows 2000 or XP and have more than one adaptor, you may have to disable the one you are not using.
Some adaptors have a physical switch (very small) that must be turned on in order to connect to to the Internet
Most wireless software has an indicator that tells you a signal is being received. Make sure the link quality and signal strength are both at least "good". If not, move about the room to a location that has a stronger signal.
Click on Internet Explorer or Netscape and the Internet should come right up!
Please note that the Library cannot assist you with your laptop, card, or configuration. The Library cannot accept the liability of handling your equipment.

Questions? Call 516-785-2990 or email us at askauntb@aol.com

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