Wireless Network Access in the JD Williams and Science Libraries

Wireless network access is available in most public areas of the JD Williams and Science Libraries. We are in the process of adding new signs and guides to help you use the network. Here are answers to a few common questions.

1. Where can I use the wireless network in the library?
2. What equipment do I need to use the wireless network?
3. How do I login?
4. How do I logout?
5. What is the difference between 802.11b and 802.11g?
6. Can I use 802.11a?
7. Do I need a wireless account to use the Library's network?
8. What other campus locations offer wireless network access?
9. Can I print to the Library's printers from my laptop?

1. Where can I use the wireless network in the library?
Maps showing wireless hotspots are available here. Wireless network access is available in most of the public seating areas on the first, second, and third floors.  We will be adding coverage area maps in the next few days to help you locate wireless hotspots. We will also be adding signs to help you identify the hotspots. When you see the logo below, you are entering one the Library's wireless areas.

2. What equipment do I need to use the wireless network?
You need a computer with an 802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.11b/g wireless network card.

3. How do I login?
When you launch your favorite web browser (Internet Explorer, Mozilla, Netscape, Opera, Safari, etc.), you will be redirected to a login page. Enter your webID, and you will be logged into the network.

4. How do I logout?
When you login to the network, a small popup box will appear. Minimize this box and leave it open for the duration of your network session. When you are ready to logout, click the logout link in this box. If you have a popup blocker running, you may not see this box. You will still be able to use the network, but you will not have the logout option.

5. What is the difference between 802.11b and 802.11g?
The 802.11b protocol offers data transfer speed of up to 11 megabits per second over a distance of approximately 150-300 feet. The 802.11g protocol offers data transfer speed up up to 54 megabits per second over the same distance.

6. Can I use 802.11a?
No. The 802.11a protocol operates in the 5 Ghz radio range, while b and g operate in the 2.4 Ghz range. Because of this difference, 802.11a is incompatible with access points installed in the Library.

7. Do I need a wireless account to use the Library's network?
No, you do NOT need a wireless account to use the Library's network; all you need is your webID. (You MAY need a wireless account for other wireless networks on campus.)

8. What other campus locations offer wireless network access?
Anderson Hall - 2nd floor, Business School, Law School, Weir Hall.

9. Can I print to the Library's printers from my laptop?
No, at this time it is not possible to print from your own laptop to the Library's printers.