Wireless Network

The Daly City Public Library provides wireless internet access at all locations. Bring your wireless-enabled laptop to the library and surf the web as long as you want. It's fast, it's free, at your local library.

Public use computers with internet access are also available at all library locations. Due to high demand, time is limited to one hour per day.

Other area libraries also provide wireless access and public use computers. Click here for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do I need to access the Library's wireless network?
A: You need a laptop computer and a Wireless Network PC Card. After you purchase the card, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it on your computer. This should involve installing the network card driver, and also a client utility program. This program will allow you to configure the settings for your network connection, monitor signal strength, and perform other useful tasks.

Q: What kind of wireless card do I need?
A: You need an 11Mbps 802.11b or 54Mbps 802.11g Wireless Network Card for your laptop. For PCs, we recommend the Orinoco Silver, made by Proxim. Based on online user opinions, Cisco Aironet and Netgear brands should also work well, but Linksys, SMC, D-Link or US Robotics brands may be problematic, especially for Windows XP users. For Apple notebooks, their Airport card is recommended. Most cards are available for about $70 at local computer stores, or one of many online computer stores. Most laptops with Windows XP or newer come with built-in wireless cards. If yours does, make sure the card is turned on (your laptop may have an external switch or button for this).

Q: What are the minimum requirements for my laptop (PC and Apple)?
A: You should be limited only by the wireless network card you buy. The drivers and software to operate the card must be compatible with your system. See the card's packaging and documentation for compatibility and minimum requirements.

Important notice to wireless users:
When you bring your laptop to the Library, remember not to leave it unattended. The Library is not responsible for items left unattended.

The wireless user is responsible for protecting his/her laptop from viruses and other Internet threats through the use of antivirus software and personal firewall software. Such steps are highly recommended. No such protection is offered by the library's wireless connection.

Q: From where can I access the Library's wireless network?
A: The network is accessible anywhere in the Westlake and Bayshore Branch Libraries and in most of the Serramonte Main Library, except in the computer lab area and Children’s area. Power outlets are available at both locations for laptop users. Ask the staff if you have questions about the coverage area.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the use of the wireless network?
A: You may not use the network to view images, text or graphics that are obscene. See the Daly City Library Internet Use Policy, available at the Reference or Circulation Desks, for further information.

The bandwidth available for the wireless Internet connection is shared with all others in the library. To show consideration for others' needs, we ask you not to download excessively large files, use peer-to-peer file sharing programs, or access streaming audio/video.

Q: How do I set up my laptop computer to use the wireless network?
A: Install your wireless card according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You do not need any special configuration, as our network is an “open” network. The wireless card will automatically find the Library network. You may have to complete a brief configuration to connect to the network.

Q: What settings do I use?
A: SSID or Network Name: Serramonte Library, Westlake Library, John Daly Library, or Bayshore Library
WEP: disable
IP or Network Settings: DHCP enabled or obtain an IP address automatically
DNS: obtain DNS address automatically
Gateway: no default gateway set - your card should detect it automatically
Close settings and restart computer if necessary.

Q: Can I print from my laptop using the any of the Library’s printers?
A: No, the wireless network is not connected to any of the library’s printers.

Q: If there are too many users, will I be blocked from using the wireless network?
A: A pool of resources has been set aside large enough to accommodate users at the library. You will not be "blocked" from accessing the network because of too many users.

Q: What speed is the Internet connection?
A: The Library has a T1 line. However, as with any Internet connection, your speed may fluctuate widely due to heavy traffic on the Internet at different times of the day.