Free Wireless Internet Access
Alta Bates Summit's wireless Internet access allows patients and visitors to use their own wireless-enabled personal computer or PDA to access the internet while at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there an access fee?
No. Alta Bates Summit is providing this service free of charge, however, you must have your own equipment, wireless card and software.
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Is the network secure?
Alta Bates Summit's Internet access is as secure as any open public access network like public telephones and dial-up Internet accounts. Note: It's always a good idea to make sure you are on an SSL-encrypted (https://) web page prior to sending or receiving confidential information.
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What tools do I need?
You must have your own laptop or notebook computer, or a personal digital assistant (PDA) equipped with a standard Internet browser and an Internet compliant (802.11b/g) wireless Ethernet card. In most cases, the card will be installed in the PCMCIA slot on the side of the computer and the computer will be preloaded with software.
Note: Some newer laptops have built-in wireless capability, in which case the operating system alerts the user to the presence of an available wireless network when the browser window is opened.
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I have a Macintosh computer; can I still use the service?
Yes! All you need is an airport card or a 802.11b/g compatible Wireless card with the appropriate software installed.
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Where can I buy a Wireless card?
Broadband/Wi-fi 802.11b/g wireless network cards are available at most major electronic retailers, either in-store or online. Be sure to load the software for your wireless card before you install the card!
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What if I don't have a laptop?
Computers are available for patient and visitor use in our Family Resource Centers. The centers are located on the third floor of the Merritt Pavilion, and the first floor of the Providence Pavilion on the Summit Campus.
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Connecting Information
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How do I connect to the free network?
Check to make sure that your wireless software and card are properly installed, and that your computer is turned on. Set your wireless card to connect to SHGuestNet or simply right click on your "Wireless Found Alert" and connect by clicking on the SHGuestNet.
Here are some things to check if you're having difficulty:
- Create a new wireless profile for use within the facility
- Set the SSID to SHGuestNet
- Disable the wireless encryption (WEP)
- Check that the connection is configured for INFRASTRUCTURE mode (Ad-Hoc mode will not work)
- If you’ve made any changes in steps 2 through 4 above, restart (reboot) your computer and web browser.
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Can I connect to my Corporate VPN in addition to the Internet?
Yes. Using your VPN client or token, you can access your corporate network using your laptop at Alta Bates Summit just as you can from any internet cafe or hotel room.
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Still having trouble connecting?
Please take these instructions and your laptop to your local tech support shop. For purposes of security, and according to our confidentiality/privacy policies, Alta Bates Summit IT personnel cannot work on guest's personal laptops.
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