LibInsider Topics

Answered By: Matthew Moffett
Last Updated: Oct 28, 2024     Views: 615

How to connect to the library's public Wi-Fi

  • Using the device's Wi-Fi settings, connect to the wireless network named FCPL_Wifi.
  • The library's Terms of Service page should pop up automatically. 
  • Read the the Library's Terms of Service, check the box next to "I Accept the Terms of Service" and then select the blue Connect button to complete your wireless connection.

 

Connect screen


Remember, ultimately staff can only verify that the network is available. We are not able to troubleshoot problems unique to every possible device or setting on a device. That said, there are a few general things you can try and/or suggest to a customer having difficulty connecting. 

Troubleshooting

  • Refresh the browser page.

  • Type 1.1.1.1 or a non-https address into the address bar of the browser.

  • Type the address for a website that updates frequently (i.e. cnn.com or news.yahoo.com or captive.apple.com for Apple/IOS devices). 

  • Type the direct URL in the browser: portal.mist.com

  • Close all browser windows and/or any other software that might be clogging or confusing the Internet connection (i.e. Itunes, a streaming service or even software trying to update in the background). After everything is closed, try again.

  • Use another browser, if available.

  • Turn the wifi connection off and back on. Then reconnect to FCPL_Wifi.

  • Some devices, primarily laptops, have a physical switch that disables the wifi antenna. Look for this to see if it is set properly and try again.

  • Restart the device.

  • Go into the network settings for the device. Have the device forget FCPL_Wifi, which removes all settings previously used with the network----the exact method to do this will vary by device. Try connecting again. 

Questions to ask

Is this device managed by FCPS?

FCPS laptops, for both staff and students, have their own security settings.

Is this device managed by someone other than you?

If yes, they may need to check with their IT department and ask about connecting to public wifi with the device. 

Are you using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

Because of what VPN's do, it's possible the system would block its use. The patron can turn it off and try to connect again. Please see this post for more information. 

Did you adjust the DNS settings for the device?

Some users adjust their DNS settings for privacy reasons or to simply speed up the response of their Internet searches. It can, however, impact getting the Acceptable Use Policy page to load. If they say yes, ask them to try putting the DNS settings back to the default for the device and try again. I wouldn't suggest doing this yourself, but if someone has adjusted their own settings they should (hopefully) know how to change them back. 

 

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