This workshop is presented and funded by the Northeast Massachusetts Regional Library System.

 

 

 

 

Hot Spots everywhere!

 

 

 

 

What is it?

 

 

WiFi / IEEE 802.11

There are many types of wireless technologies.  WiFi is the common term for wireless access to the Internet using a wireless card in a computer.  This is also know as the IEEE 802.11 standard.  There are many different versions of 802.11, the differences concern the speed data can be moved and the radio-spectrum frequency they broadcast over.  Currently the most common versions are compatible with each other, so a user never need know whether they are connecting via a 802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.11n network.  These networks broadcast over “long” distances, measured in yards/meters (or city blocks).  The farther from the broadcasting antenna (node) the weaker the signal and slower the connection.  WiFi standards work with any kind of computer operating systems: Apple; Windows; Linux; etc.

 

Bluetooth & infrared

There are also 2 popular short-distance wireless technologies Bluetooth and infrared (IrDA).  Both of these standards are mainly used to connect a wireless keyboard, mouse, printer or PDA to a computer.  They are for very “short” distances measured in feet/centimeters.

 

 

 

 

 

What are the issues for libraries?

 

 

Popularity - it’s only going to grow in popularity and be an increasing expectation of library users.  Every new laptop computer (Apple or Windows) has a WiFi card built-in and will automatically search out a wireless connection whether you want it or not (also PDAs and cell phones).  Many new laptops are also coming with standard Bluetooth & infrared capabilities.

 

Internet Use Policy – update, create and/or make it prominently visible to users.  Before allowing users to surf freely online, many libraries (and all retailers) force wireless users to “log on,” or “click here to agree,” via an Internet Use Policy webpage.  At the very least post this policy everywhere.  It protects you and your patrons.

 

Network Security - if in a library try to create a separate network just for public wireless that does not connect to the staff network.  If you are running a network (work or home!), be sure you to use encryption to help secure your data.  WEP is the most popular, while not considered very robust by wireless experts, it’s better than nothing at all.  If you’re a user of a wireless network, be sure to be keep your anti-virus & anti-spyware software updated as well as use firewall software (Windows XP users, go to Start\Security Center).

 

 

 

 

 

Where to get connected.

 

 

Your local Public Library, it’s free to anyone and everyone!

Almost all NMRLS' Public Library members provide free public wireless access:

NOBLE Libraries / Merrimack Valley Library Consortium

 

 

Retail Establishments

 

 

 

 

 

Where to get more info:

 

 

Dummies.com (website for the Dummies series books)

 

Wikipedia articles

 

Books (real paper)

 

Wireless all-in-one desk Reference for Dummies / Todd W. Carter.  Wiley, 2005.

  • Location:  MVLC, NOBLE

 

Wireless Networks for Dummies / Barry Lewis and Peter T. Davis.  Wiley, c. 2004

  • Location:  MVLC, NOBLE, NMRLS Professional Collection (MassCat)

 

Windows XP Unwired: A Guide for Home, Office, and the Road / Wei-Meng Lee.  O'Reilly, 2003.

  • Location:  MVLC, NMRLS Professional Collection (MassCat)

 

The Wireless Networking Starter Kit: the Practical Guide to Wi-Fi Networks for Windows and Macintosh / Adam Engst & Glenn Fleishman.  Peachpit Press, c2003.

  • Location:  NMRLS Professional Collection (MassCat)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Updated: 11/6/06                    Scott Kehoe, Technology Consultant, NMRLS / 978-762-4433 x16 / scott@nmrls.org