Wireless Internet FAQ

Answers to questions about the Evanston Public Library wireless network

The Evanston Public Library has a wireless network available to the public at the Main Library (1703 Orrington) and at both branches (North: 2026 Central; South: 949 Chicago).

What is it?

The library's wireless network allows you to use a wireless enabled device to access library resources and the Internet from within the Evanston Public Library without physically connecting to the network.

What can I do with it?

When you are connected to our wireless network you have a high speed connection to the Internet so you can:

• Do on-line research.
• Check the library catalog.
• Access the library's subscription databases.
• Check your e-mail.

Where is it?

Current coverage is all three floors of the main library and in both branches. Reception may be weaker in some areas of the building than in others.

What do I need?

You need a laptop (or other wireless device) equipped with a IEEE 802.11b compatible (Wi-Fi) wireless network chip or card. Some computers have wireless chips built in, for most others you can purchase a compatible card to plug into your computer. Installation of the card and its associated software will vary depending on specific computer, card and operating system. Before you use the wireless network you should ensure that your security settings are appropriate for connecting to the Internet.

What if I don't own a laptop?

If you don't own a laptop you can't use the wireless network but you can access the Internet using the computers on the third floor of the Main library and at the branches, or use the office software on the application workstations also located on the west end of the third floor.

What are the guidelines for use?

While using our network (either wired using our computers or wireless using your own) you agree to be bound by our Internet Access Policy and the Rules for the Use of the Library. In simple terms you agree not to interfere with or disturb other patrons (use headphones if necessary!), and not to use our network to harass other people or break the law.

Must I register?

No. We have decided to try offering access without requiring any registration; if there are problems with unrestricted access we may reconsider registration.

Do you charge for this service?

No.

Why are you providing this service?

The library's mission is to provide open access to cultural, intellectual, and informational resources; a wireless network fits well with that goal. It also has the advantage of freeing up Internet computers for everyone else. The equipment used was funded in part by a grant from the Illinois State Library.

How do I connect?

Details of configuring your computer for wireless networking will vary depending on the specific versions of computer, operating system, and wireless network card, and are therefore beyond the scope of this brief pamphlet. You should know that:

• The SSID of the network is: EPL - terms at: wireless.epl.org.
• The public wireless network is open; no password or key is needed to join it.

A visit to our Wireless Tips page might help you to get started.

Are there any restrictions?

For security reasons we currently deny access to Telnet port 23 and also SMTP port 25 - depending on your specific e-mail software and mail service the latter may restrict your ability to send e-mail from within the library (web-based e-mail should not be affected).

You should also be aware that network bandwidth (11 Mbps) is shared between all simultaneous users of the wireless network so please avoid doing anything that will have a negative impact on others, such as downloading very large files.

Can I print from the wireless network?

No, there are no printers configured on the wireless network. To print your documents at the library you should save them to a USB or floppy drive and print from one of the application workstations on the west end on the third floor (sign up at the Magazine Desk).

Can I access the library's subscription databases?

Yes, while connected to the library's network you have access to all the library's subscription databases as though you were using one of the library's computers; you won't need to enter a library card number.

I can connect to the Internet, but how do I get help finding the information I'm looking for?

If you have questions about using our subscription databases or about finding specific information on the Internet, you should ask at the Reference desk.

Is it secure?

No, but wireless networks are not unique in that respect; on all shared networks, whether wired or wireless, users can potentially eavesdrop on each other's data, though it is not usually likely that they will. Whenever it is appropriate and practical, you should use additional methods to secure your data. If you are transferring confidential information (passwords, credit card numbers, on-line banking information, health data and so on) you are strongly encouraged to use secure web sites (SSL) or other techniques (SSH, VPN) to safeguard your confidentiality. The library is not responsible for insuring the privacy of information you transfer over our network.

Connecting your computer to the Internet via our wireless network can expose your computer to the same viruses and other security risks as any other Internet connection. You are responsible for ensuring that your computer is protected against such threats: you use the library's wireless network at your own risk.

If you have enabled any form of file sharing on your computer, depending on your security settings, other network users may be able to view your shared files; we suggest you disable file sharing while connected to the EPL network.

Please note that intentionally eavesdropping on another person's connection, accessing their files without permission, or interfering with their computer or connection in any way is a violation of the terms of use of the network.

Do you collect or log data about my session?

We log the hardware address and temporary IP address assigned to your computer (information necessary for creating the connection). The wireless network neither collects nor stores any other information about you, your computer, the web sites you visit or the data you transfer over our network.

What if I have problems?

Unfortunately we are not in a position to provide technical support for your specific laptop or wireless network card.
Troubleshooting tips:

• Set the SSID (sometimes called ESSID, "Network Name," or similar terms) to EPL - terms at: wireless.epl.org. Sometimes using a setting of "any" will also work.
• Make sure WEP encryption is disabled.

Is it safe?

Yes. Wireless networking uses very low power signals in the same frequency band as many cordless phones, and manufacturers design their equipment to fall well within industry safety guidelines. Experts generally agree that Wi-Fi technology is very safe when used appropriately.More...