Wireless Access (Wi-Fi)

Chesapeake Public Library is pleased to offer wireless Internet access at all of our Libraries. Below are brief instructions for use and answers to some questions you might have about using wireless at the Library?

How can I use wireless Internet at the Library?
Chesapeake Public Library offers Wi-Fi access using standard IEEE 802.11 b/g/n connectivity. Most users can simply bring their wireless-enabled laptop computer or other wireless device to the Library and turn it on. The computer will automatically recognize the wireless network. If your laptop does not have wireless built-in, you can install a WiFi-compatible network device. The Library cannot guarantee your equipment will work with the Library's network.

Is my information safe while using wireless?
Your information is NOT protected while using wireless, unless you are connected to a web page that employs encryption (stores, banks, etc.) Keep this in mind if you are accessing sensitive business or personal information.

Are there any restrictions on my use of the Internet?
Wireless users agree to abide by the the Library's Internet Public Use Policy & Guidelines which prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Library's Internet service. During periods of peak usage, download bandwidth may be reduced or "shaped" to ensure quality service to all users.

Can I search the Library Catalog and special databases using wireless?
Yes. To search the Catalog, click on Catalog from the home page. To access electronic databases, click on "Info At Your Fingertips", then 'Online Books, Magazines, Newspapers " More'

Can I print while using wireless?
Printing is not currently available. We plan to have this ability available in the future. If you need to print, please save your work to disk or email files to yourself, then login to a library workstation and send print jobs to a printer.

Will I need any special settings or passwords to connect?
No, the library's network is open to all visitors. No special encryption settings, user names, nor passwords are required.

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.
-Some helpful tips are included on this page.
-The Chesapeake Public Library System cannot be responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings.
-If you need additional assistance, you may need to contact the manufacturers of your hardware or software.

General Configuration 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) = CPWL1

-WEP = disable WEP encryption

-Mode or Network Type = Infrastructure mode or Access Point

Network Settings:

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 get into its 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 VISTA
If you have a mobile PC, you can see a list of available wireless networks, and then connect to one of those networks, no matter where you are. The wireless networks appear only if your computer has a wireless network adapter installed and the adapter is turned on.
1. Open Connect to a Network by clicking the Start button , and then clicking Connect to.
2. In the Show list, click Wireless. You'll see a list of the wireless networks currently available.
3. Click a network, and then click Connect.
If you don't see the library's network, click Set up a connection or network. A list of options will appear that includes manually searching for and connecting to a network, as well as creating a new network connection.

Windows 7
If you have a laptop, you can see a list of available wireless networks, and then connect to one of those networks, no matter where you are. The wireless networks appear only if your computer has a wireless network adapter and driver installed and the adapter is enabled.
1. Open Connect to a Network by clicking the network icon ( or ) in the notification area. The notification area is usually on the lower right corner of your desktop.
2. In the list of available wireless networks, click a network, and then click Connect.

Mac (OS X)
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.
5. Ensure that "Connect to last known network" is not checked.

Internet Explorer Tips:
Please note that depending on 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.