Downtown Ithaca’s Commons has gone high-tech to bring residents and visitors convenient access to cyberspace. The community now offers FREE Community Wi-Fi.
Our outdoor wireless network offers immediate access to the Internet on and near the Commons pedestrian mall. This access to fast internet is critical to the growth of our city – to work, live, and play. By installing a free Wi-Fi network downtown, we’re simultaneously providing this essential service to our citizens and supporting our downtown businesses with increased visitor activity in the district.
The Wi-Fi Network is supported through Downtown Ithaca Alliance funding and in partnership with Skypackets.
WHAT YOU NEED TO CONNECT
- A computer, pocket PC, or smartphone with a wireless networking card. Most modern devices are Wi-Fi capable. Apple Airport is also compatible.
- Any web browser.
- Dual-band phones, which work off standard signals as well as Wi-Fi, can use the system.
HOW TO CONNECT
When you’re on or near the Commons, your wireless device will detect the system. Choose Downtown Ithaca WiFi in your device’s Wi-Fi settings and accept the connection.
Launch your web browser, carefully read and then accept the terms of use on the login page. A greeting page will appear with useful links.
WHERE IS THE WI-FI AVAILABLE
On the Ithaca Commons and its surrounding streets. The strongest signal is on the Commons.
See map below for 5GHz bandwidth
HOW IT WORKS
Access points were placed in several locations to give you complete outdoor coverage no matter where you are on the Commons. Access points transmit and communicate with your wireless device, as well as with one another to create a wireless local area network (WLAN).
Access points relay your connection between them until it reaches the unit with a direct connection to the Internet.
Heads Up
Eavesdroppers – The system is public, free, and unsecured. If your e-mail is not encrypted, sending a note about a dinner meeting is fine; sending your accountant your Social Security Number is not. Also, do not enter credit cards or other personal account information on websites.
Public Eyes – Your screen can be visible to passers-by. Visit websites that are appropriate for all eyes.
Protect Yourself – Update your spyware and antivirus software. Just like with any connection, you can catch nasty bugs coming off the Internet. If your need additional security, please obtain it independently.
