Free Wireless Access at the Orange County Public Library
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WiFi FAQ @ OCPL

Wireless Internet Access at Orange County Public Library
Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can anyone use this service?
    If you have a laptop computer, tablet PC, or PDA with a wireless network interface card (NIC), you can use the wireless network at the library.
  • What do I need to access OCPL's wireless network?
    You need a laptop computer or other device with a wireless network interface card (NIC).
    Wireless access uses the WiFi standard IEEE 802.11 g or b.
    New laptops often come with a built-in wireless NIC and will be configured to pick up the signal. If your laptop does not have a wireless network interface card, you will need to purchase a compatible card and follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it on your laptop. This typically involves installing the network card driver and a client utility program. This program will allow you to configure the settings for your network connection.

  • What settings do I use?
    Important: Note your current configuration settings before making any changes.
      Use the following settings:
    • SSID or Network Name: OCPL WiFi
    • WEP: Disabled
    • Mode or Network Type: Infrastructure mode or Access Point
    • DHCP: Obtains IP address automatically
    • DNS: Obtains DNS server address automatically
    • Close settings and restart computer, if needed.

  • Can the library staff help me configure my
    The library staff cannot help you with your laptop, card, or configuration.
    If you need help, refer to the manufacturer's documentation or contact them directly.
    The library staff cannot accept the liability of handling your equipment.

  • Where can I access the library's wireless network?
    OCPL offers wireless network service at all of our branches.
    Please ask the staff at your branch for the designated area.
    You should arrive with a charged battery and be prepared to be self-powered.
    Headphones are required for audio.

  • How do I know I'm connected to the library's wireless network?
    If your laptop is WiFi enabled and properly configured, the laptop should automatically detect the OCPL wireless network and ask if you would like to connect.
    Simply launch your Internet browser (e.g., Explorer, Netscape, etc.).

  • Can I print while using wireless?
    Printing is not available.
    You may save your work to a disk or email files to yourself, then print at home or login to a library Internet workstation and send print jobs to the printer.

  • Is the library's wireless network secure?
    OCPL's free wireless service is an open network.
    The library's network is not secure, and the library cannot guarantee the safety of your information on the wireless network.
    Information viewed or sent to or from your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device.
    The library assumes no responsibility for the configurations, security, or files on your laptop resulting from connection to OCPL's wireless network.

  • What steps can I take to ensure my laptop is secure?
    Although OCPL strives to maintain a safe wireless network, you should assume that others may view any information you share or transmit.
    We recommend you verify that you are connecting to OCPL's wireless network, disable file sharing on your laptop, and use personal firewalls and virtual private networks (VPN).
    Personal firewall settings may affect wireless connectivity.
    Contact your firewall manufacturer for more information.

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