How to Connect to Our Wireless System
The Butler County Federated Library System provides internet access via an 802.11a/g wireless access point at all 8 locations county wide, which is compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g/a network cards. Most laptops are configured to connect to any available wireless connection using DHCP. In those cases you can simply turn on your laptop, let it automatically find and connect to one of the access points and begin surfing the web. Not all locations are adjacent to electrical outlets. For safety reasons, please do not run extension cords or power cords across aisles.

The most common problems occur when the laptop isn't configured to use DHCP, the laptop is configured to only connect to an incompatible wireless network, or both. If your laptop is not configured to use DHCP, see the instructions below. If your laptop is configured to only connect to an incompatible wireless network, you will need to know how to change that yourself or consult the documentation appropriate for your equipment.

Connect to whatever access point provides the strongest signal for the area you are working in. Again, you may need to consult your documentation for specific instructions with your particular wireless network card. Beyond these instructions, library staff cannot assist you with configuring your laptop.

Resetting your laptop to use DHCP
Remember - follow the instructions appropriate to your operating system!

Windows XP
Start > Control Panel > Network Connections.
Right click on your wireless Network Connection and choose Properties.
Under the General Tab, highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click Properties.
Make sure that "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS serve address automatically" radio buttons are selected.
Click OK. If prompted to reboot, do so.

Windows 2000
Start > Settings > Control Panel.
Open Network Connections.
Right click on your wireless Network Connection and choose Properties.
Under the General Tab, highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click Properties.
Make sure that "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS serve address automatically" radio buttons are selected.
Click OK. If prompted to reboot, do so.

WinME/Win98
Start > Settings > Control Panel.
Open Network.
Under the configuration tab, find the TCP/IP for your wireless NIC.
Highlight then click Properties.
Under the IP Address tab, make sure the radio button next to "Obtain an IP address automatically" is selected.
Under the Gateway tab, remove any installed gateways if present.
Under the WINS Configuration tab, make sure the radio button next to "Use DHCP for WINS Resolution" is selected.
Click OK. If prompted to reboot, do so.

Disclaimers
The Library does not offer laptops or peripheral equipment (power strips, wireless network cards, mouse pads, cables, printers, etc.) to the public. No guarantee is provided that a laptop will be able to make a successful connection.
The Butler Area Public Library assumes no liability for any loss or damage to the user's data or equipment or other injury that may occur from the individual's use of the Library's internet services.