In addition to our existing high-speed Internet computers, The Smithtown Library now offers FREE wireless Internet ("WiFi") for library patrons with their own personal laptops and other mobile devices. Now you can get free high-speed internet access at all Smithtown Library locations without waiting for one of our computers to become available. Come in and try it today.

While you are here, try AirPAC, the Online Public Access Catalog designed especially for wireless devices.

How do I get access?

Our wireless service uses the WiFi standard (802.11b & 802.11g). Most users can simply bring their wireless-enabled laptop computer or other wireless device with it's own power source to the Library and turn it on. The computer will automatically recognize the wireless network. For maximum plug-and-play compatibility we recommend a laptop with built in 802.11 b or g wireless running Windows 2000 or Windows XP. Your device must be set to obtain IP address automatically. If your laptop does not have wireless built-in, you can install a WiFi-compatible network card. Wireless access points located throughout the library communicate with your wireless device. You should be able to connect almost anywhere in the building. No special settings or passwords are required. Wireless users agree to abide by the Library's "Public Access Computer Policy" which prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Library's Internet service.

How safe is my data?

The Library's wireless network is not secure. Information sent to and from your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software. Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information. A firewall installed on your machine will increase your security.

How do I print?

Currently, printing is not available with our wireless service. If you need to print, please save your work to a portable storage device or e-mail files to yourself, then login to a library workstation and send print jobs to a printer.

Can the library help me configure my computer?

Sorry, everyone's computer is different and you are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment. The Library cannot guarantee your device will work with the Library's network. The Library cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings. If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the hardware or software manufacturer.

General Information for all systems

NOTE: The following instructions are general guidelines and require that you understand how to configure and restore the settings of your own computer. It is best to try to use the Internet before attempting any of the changes suggested on this page.

Wireless Card Settings:

Use the software that came with your wireless card or computer to configure the settings and to verify a connection to the library's wireless network.

• SSID (network name) = (none) Leave this blank
• WEP = disable WEP encryption
• Mode or Network Type = Infrastructure mode or Access Point

Windows 98

1. From Control Panel, select Network.
2. Locate the TCP/IP protocol and go to Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
3. For IP Address, select "Obtain an IP address automatically."
4. For DNS, select "Disable DNS."
5. For WINS, select "Use DHCP for WINS Resolution."

Windows 2000 & XP

1. From Control Panel, select "Network and Dial-up Connections" or "Network and Internet Connections---> Internet Connections."
2. Right-click on "Wireless Network Connection" or "Local Area Connection" and click Properties.
3. Locate the Internet TCP/IP protocol and go to Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
4. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically."
5. For XP, right click on "Wireless Network Connection" and select "View Available Wireless Networks." Select the name of the wireless network available at the library and click "Connect."

Windows NT

1. From Control Panel, select Network.
2. Locate the TCP/IP protocol and go to Properties. If more than one TCP/IP protocol is listed, look for the one associated with your wireless adapter.
3. Select "Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server" and click OK.

Internet Explorer Tips:

Please note that depending upon your version of software, there may be variations in the procedures.

1. From Control Panel, select Internet Options > Connections tab.
2. If you also have a dial-up connection, it should not be set to "Always dial my default connection."
3. LAN Settings should be "Automatically detect settings" and leave the Proxy server settings blank.

Macintosh

1. Select: Apple Menu > Control Panel > TCP/IP.
2. Connect via "AirPort" or other wireless (WiFi) ethernet.
3. Configure "Using DHCP Server."
4. Leave Name Server and Additional Search domains blank.

1. Select: Apple Menu > System Preferences > Network button.
2. Select TCP/IP tab and Configure "Using DHCP."
3. Above the TCP/IP tab, you may need to Configure via "AirPort" or other wireless (WiFi) ethernet.
4. Leave Domain Name Servers and Search Domains blank.