Wireless Internet Access

Before You Begin

For maximum security and compatibility with modern Web sites we recommend using one of the following web browsers:

Older browsers may not display all Web sites properly. The library cannot install or upgrade your web browser for you.

Acceptable Use Policy
While you are using Dormont Public Library's wireless access, you agree to be bound by our policies for computer use and Internet access. Any violation of this policy may result in suspension of Wi-Fi privileges. The Internet connection will be filtered in compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act.
Is there a fee to use the library's Wi-Fi access?
There is no fee for this service.
Can I print from my own computer while connected to Wi-Fi?
No, the network is not set up to allow printing through Wi-Fi. Please use the library's computers if you need to print.
What do I need to get online?
You need to have a laptop, PDA (iPhone, Palm Pilot, Pocket PC), or other device with an IEEE standard 802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.11n (sometimes known as AirPort or Wireless-B/G/N) wireless network adapter installed. Most new laptops sold in the past few years have at least Wireless-B standard. If you do not have built-in wireless access, the adapters are available at most major retailers. The library cannot install the device or install drivers for you.
Note: although Wireless-N devices can connect to the library network, they will be limited to the range and speed of a wireless-G device.
How do I set up my computer?
You must configure your wireless card to connect to the "Dormont Library" wireless network via DHCP (or "obtain an IP address automatically"), and you must set your web browser to use 10.50.0.20, port 8080 as a proxy. Detailed instructions for most major operating systems and browsers are below.
Is the wireless network secure?
The library's wireless network is an open, public access network. For ease of configuration, the library has chosen not to encrypt the wireless network; patrons should be aware that information sent wirelessly may be intercepted. Avoid entering sensitive information while using the library's Wi-Fi service, unless the web site you are visiting provides SSL encryption. (This is usually indicated by a lock icon in the address bar or status bar of the browser window.) Please be aware that you may have to disable your computer's built-in firewall to access the wireless network.

Configuring Your Computer

Windows XP
  1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network Connections (depending on the view set up, this might also be labeled Network and Internet Connections.
  2. Right-click Local Area Connection, then click Properties.
  3. In the General information tab, make sure that Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is checked and highlighted, then click Properties.
  4. On this screen, make sure that the "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" options are selected.
  5. Click "OK" on all the opened windows to close them.
  6. Restart your computer if prompted.
  7. Set your SSID (wireless service setting) to "Dormont Library".
Windows 2000
  1. Select Start > Control Panel > Network and Dial-Up Connections.
  2. Select the Local Area Connections icon and click Properties.
  3. Highlight "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP" and click Properties.
  4. On this screen, make sure that the "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" options are selected.
  5. Click "OK" on all the opened windows to close them.
  6. Restart your computer if prompted.
  7. Set your SSID (wireless service setting) to "Dormont Library".
Windows 98
  1. Select Start > Settings > Control Panel > Network.
  2. Highlight "TCP/IP > (name of your wireless card)" and click Properties.
  3. Click on the IP Address tab.
  4. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically.
  5. Click "OK" on all open windows to close them.
  6. Restart your computer if prompted.
  7. Set your SSID (wireless service setting) to "Dormont Library".
Mac OS X
All instructions assume Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later with an Apple-supplied AirPort or AirPort Extreme card.
  1. You may be able to connect to the library network automatically from the AirPort menu in your menu bar. If not, use the following steps:
  2. Open the Internet Connect application (located in the /Applications folder) and select the "AirPort" tab.
  3. If AirPort is turned off, click "Turn AirPort On".
  4. Select the Library wireless network from the "Network:" menu.
  5. Open System Preferences from the Apple menu and select the "Network" preference pane.
  6. Double-click on the "AirPort" entry. This will display the configuration for your AirPort card.
  7. Click the TCP/IP tab and make sure it is set to connect via DHCP.
  8. Close all windows and apply the settings when prompted.
Mac OS 9
  1. Using the AirPort control strip module or the AirPort application, select the library wireless network from the list of available wireless networks.
  2. Open Control Panels from the Apple menu and open "TCP/IP". In the TCP/IP window you should see "Connect: via AirPort" and "Configure: using DHCP Server". If not, change your settings to these.
  3. Close the TCP/IP control panel and save changes when prompted.
Other Operating Systems
If you happen to be using Linux or another operating system, chances are that you are technically savvy enough to not need step-by-step instructions. So:
  1. Make sure that you are connecting via DHCP
  2. The SSID is "Dormont Library".
  3. There is no password necessary because the library network does not use encryption.
Mon: 1:00PM - 9:00PM
Tues: 1:00PM - 9:00PM
Weds: 9:00AM - 9:00PM
Thurs: 1:00PM - 9:00PM
Fri: 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Sat: 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Sun: Closed
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2950 West Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
Telephone: 412-531-8754
Fax: 412-531-1601
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