Frequently Asked Questions
about Wireless Access at
Albany Public Library

  1. How do I connect to the library’s wireless network?
    Look in your system tray (row of icons next to the clock in the lower right corner of your computer desktop for a wireless management utility icon.  It may be flashing or displaying a message that a wireless network is within range.

    Open the utility (usually by double-clicking or right-clicking on the icon), and view the available wireless networks.  Choose the network “AlbanyPublic” and click on “connect”.  Open your web browser and test access to a web site.

  2. I am still having trouble connecting to the wireless network!
    If you are using a 3rd party wireless configuration utility, try using the Windows management utility instead.  This can usually be enabled by right-clicking on your 3rd part management utility and choosing “Use Windows to manage Wi-fi”.

    Check your wireless network settings:
    • Right click on My Network Places and choose Properties.

    • The Network Connections box will open.  Right click on Wireless Network Connection and choose Properties.

    • The Wireless  Connection Properties box will open.  Single left click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) to highlight it.  Choose Properties.

    • The Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties box will open.
      Please note the IP address information.  You will need to reconfigure the setting at the end of your library session.  To set a dynamic IP address, select both Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.  Click OK. 
  1. Why isn’t your network secured?
    In order to keep the wireless connection process as simple and uncomplicated as possible, APL provides unsecured, unencrypted Internet access.   This is the norm for free public wireless access.  You should keep this in mind when transferring sensitive and private information when using any public hotspot.  We suggest that you use web-based email services such as Hotmail or Gmail when accessing our wireless network.  These web-based services are hosted using SSL encryption, which helps ensure that your email communications remain private.

  2. Can anyone else on the wireless network access the files on my computer?
    No, our wireless network does not allow users to see any other computers on the network. 
  1. Can I print to the library’s printers from my wireless device?
    We do not support printing from wireless devices.
  1. Can library staff set up my laptop for me?
    Library staff may not make any changes to your equipment.


Please note:  If you change your network settings, make note of the original IP address information.  You will need to reconfigure the setting at the end of your library session to return to your previous settings.

WiFi Zone

Last updated: July 31, 2007
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