WiFi Internet Access

WiFi Hot Spot logo

KPL provides access to the Internet via a high speed wireless network at all KPL locations during open hours.

Connect

To connect, you will need a wireless enabled laptop, tablet PC or PDA. All visitors may use KPL's network free of charge. No encryption settings, user names, or passwords are required. However, you must agree to abide by the library’s Internet Use Policy to connect. After you click the I Agree button, you will be taken to Kalamazoo Public Library's website.

Hardware Requirements

A laptop computer with WiFi cabability that supports the WiFi standard, IEEE 802.11b or g. Your laptop battery should be charged for portable use.

Quick Setup Settings

  • SSID (network name) = KPLWiFi (case sensitive)
  • Test your connection. If connection fails, you may need to adjust the following settings:
  • WEP — disable WEP encryption
  • Mode or Network Type — Access Point
  • DHCP — Obtain an IP address automatically
  • DNS — Obtain DNS server address automatically

Troubleshooting

Windows XP & 2000 Network Settings

  1. From Control Panel, select Network and Dial-up Connections or Network and Internet Connections.
  2. Right-click on Wireless Network Connection or Local Area Connection and click Properties.
  3. Locate the internet TCP/IP protocol and click 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 KPLWiFi, click Connect.

Windows NT Network Settings

  1. From Control Panel, double click on Network.
  2. Locate the internet TCP/IP protocol and double click 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; click OK.
  4. From Control Panel, select Internet Options, click Connections. If you also have a dial-up connection, it should not be set to Always Dial. LAN Settings should be Automatically detect settings. Leave Proxy server settings blank.

Macintosh Network Settings (OS X)

  1. Select Apple menu, then System Preference, then Network.
  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. You will first have to connect via Internet Explorer or Firefox and accept our user policy. After you accept the user policy you can surf with Safari.

Limitations and Disclosures

KPL's wireless network is not secure. The library cannot guarantee the safety of your traffic across its wireless network. The library assumes no responsibility for the configurations, security or files on your laptop resulting from connection to the library's network. Information sent to or from your laptop can be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and appropriate software, within up to 300 feet.

Technical Assistance

KPL is not able to provide technical assistance to users and cannot guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection. If you need assistance, contact the manufacturer of your laptop or software. Some helpful hints may be found on the library's WiFi FAQ page. The library is not responsible for any changes you make to your computer's settings.