Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Q: What do I need to get on the Internet?
A: Instaconnect is a wireless network based on the 802.11b
standard. Any wireless PCI or PCM/CIA card will work. The
system is cross-platform compatible so both Mac users and
PC users can be online.
Q: If I use it at a public location,
do I have to buy or lease anything from the business where
I am using the connection?
A: No. The businesses in which we've installed Instaconnect
have kindly let us use their facility at no cost, but it
would not hurt if you purchased something during your visit.
Q: How fast is instaconnect?
A: When using the Internet through an Instaconnect network,
expect to have download rates in the range of
50 to 75 times faster than a dial-up.
Q: Can I use instaconnect with
multiple computers?
A: Yes, as long as each computer has a supported wireless
adapter, and each adapter has been registered with us.
Q: Can I use instaconnect with
my handheld?
A: Many handheld devices have wireless adapters available
for them, check with your handheld's manufacturer for more
information.
Q: Can I use instaconnect under
Linux?
A: Yes, there are several "howto's" available
online. Please check the compatibility lists online before
buying hardware. Keep in mind that many wireless adapters
do not have Linux drivers available.
Look into the following websites:
Roberto Arcomano's Linux Wireless Howto
http://tldp.org/HOWTO/Wireless-HOWTO.html
Jean Tourrihes' Linux Wireless Howto
http://www.hpl.hp.com/personal/Jean_Tourrilhes/Linux/
Linux Users' Group of Davis
http://www.lugod.org/
Linux supported PCMCIA cards
http://pcmcia-cs.sourceforge.net/ftp/SUPPORTED.CARDS
http://groups.google.com/groups?group=comp.os.linux.networking
Q: Can I run an internet server?
A: Our firewall blocks connection attempts from the internet,
so an internet server will not be possible.
Q: Whom do I talk to for assistance?
A: This guide has a support section, please try that first.
If you're able to get online you can try our website at:
www.instaconnect.net. If you still need assistance, please
call us at 530-759-1570.
Q: What do I do if the service goes
down while I am using it?
A: More than likely your wireless card lost connection with
an access point. First, wait and see if the signal returns
within a minute or so. If the signal does not return, shut
down your computer and unplug your wireless adapter for
two minutes. If after restarting, your signal does not return
please consult the support section of this guide.
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TECHNICAL QUESTIONS
Q: Will instaconnect work with
802.11a(5GHz) devices?
A: No, instaconnect only works with 802.11b.
Q: Do I need a wireless access
point?
A: No.
Q: I cannot get the card installed,
what do I do?
A: Remove the card and uninstall any software and/or drivers
that you have already installed through the "add/remove
programs" portion of the control panel (Windows machines).
Try installing the card again, if it still does not work,
consult the card's user manual or call the manufacturer
for assistance.
Q: I have my card installed, but I
cannot see the network. What do I do?
A: Make sure that the settings are correct for the card.
The SSID needs to match that of the network, and the WEP
settings for your location also need to match those that
have been established.
Q: I have the card installed and I
have signal, but I cannot get to the Internet.
A: Reboot your computer to let the card reset and to ensure
any changes that were made during the installation process
can take effect. When the computer is fully rebooted, make
sure you have a signal and link to the Instaconnect service.
If your link is strong and you still cannot browse the Internet,
contact our support department at 530-759-1570.
Q: Is this system proprietary to
Instaconnect/Aria Communications?
A: No, the network works on an industry wide standard known
as 802.11b. The Instaconnect service does not require you
to purchase PC cards from us. As long as you have an 802.11b
card, you can use the Instaconnect network.
Q: What is the distance range
of the wireless products?
A: The 802.11b products used have a documented indoor range
of 500ft. This will vary depending on environment.
Q: What can interfere with the wireless
signal?
A: The signal is a radio frequency in the 2.4 GHz range.
Products that also use this range are microwave ovens (only
when in use), some cordless phones and other wireless networks.
These interferences are generally not a barrier with our
network and are not a problem at our public locations.
Q: Is there a time limit at the public sites?
A: Some of the business owners of the public access areas
have decided to set time limits. The limits are set at the
owners' discretion and posted at that location.
Q: What are the basics of Wireless
LAN Wi-Fi (or 802.11b) technology?
A: Wireless LAN technology standard Wi-Fi has the strongest
momentum to become the main standard for corporate internal
wireless LAN networks. The bandwidth of Wi-Fi is 11 Mbits
and operates at 2.4 GHz Frequency.
The successor to Wi-Fi appears to be 802.11g. This standard
is supposed to be faster and will operate at a higher frequency.
While 802.11g promises improvements, it is still under development
and has not been widely tested or deployed. Wi-Fi (802.11b)
has been in use for several years and supported by every
major network equipment manufacturer. As the market adopts
and proves new technologies, Instaconnect will set the pace
to ensure widespread compatibility and superior performance.
Q: Are there any limits on bandwidth
or usage?
A: In short, no. You can be online 24/7/365. We strongly
recommend that you not download excessively large files
on a regular basis during prime hours. Should network performance
at a particular site be hampered by a select few monopolizing
the connection, we will turn on our bandwidth regulators
to enforce even distribution.
Q: Where else can I use instaconnect?
A: For a list of public access areas and locations that
are coming soon, you can look online at our website or give
us a call. Each public access location will have a display
up advertising that business is an Instaconnect partner.
*
Woodstock's
Cafe Roma
Common Grounds
Delta Venus
Java California
Ali Baba
*We will be expanding our public locations
soon. Please watch the website for updates.
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SECURITY QUESTIONS
As more wireless technology is developed and implemented,
the number and complexity of hacker attacks will increase.
However, the methods used to break and attack wireless
systems are no different than the ones used on wired systems.
By understanding how to safeguard yourself and your information
from these risks, your wireless experience can be just
as secure and protected as your wired experience.
Q: Are companies the only targets
for wireless hackers?
A: While hacking is normally associated with corporate
networks, this same issue applies to home users and telecommuters
using wireless. It is important to make sure not to have
any shared files or folders without a password and use
a secure connection whenever available.
Q: What is WEP?
A: WEP stands for "Wired Equivalency Privacy". It is a
form of encryption that can hide data and protect users'
privacy.
WEP can be typically configured in 3 possible modes:
- No encryption mode
- 40-256 bit encryption
WEP, by default, is turned off. 40-256 bit encryption
provides no added protection against the known flaw in
WEP.
If the provider does not enable WEP, the wireless clients
can not use WEP encryption.
In some locations, it is optional whether the encryption
is enforced. The WEP encryption at the location may or
may not be turned on. In either case, you are still able
to use Instaconnect's services with the proper SSID. However,
if the encryption option is turned off at the location,
your connection may not be protected.
Q: Is my traffic vulnerable on
this wireless network?
A: Yes, even with WEP enabled your traffic is not completely
secure. If you have access to a Virtual Private Network,
we strongly recommend using it, wired or wireless.
Q: Can I still use file sharing?
A: It is recommended that you do not file share, but if
you have to file share over the wireless network, be sure
to protect yourself by setting up a password.
Q: Where can I learn more about
security of wireless networks.
A: to learn more, visit this site, www.iss.net/wireless/WLAN_FAQ.php
Q: Do I need Virus Protection?
A: We highly recommend the use of Virus Protection Software
such as Norton Antivirus or McAfee Antivirus. Most computers
come with virus protection software pre-installed. Make
sure to keep your antivirus software up-to-date to ensure
protection against any new and emerging viruses.
Q: Do I need a Firewall to keep
my computer protected from hackers?
A: A Firewall is not required since Instaconnect shields
the wireless network from the Internet. However, whenever
you are connected to Instaconnect, you are part of a local
area network. To protect against others on this network,
we strongly advise that you password protect any shared
folders or printers. If you want additional security,
you can purchase or download a firewall (like BlackICE).
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Important Manufacturer Tech Support
and Contact Numbers:
Cisco: 1-800-553-2447
3Com: 1-800-876-3266
Linksys: 1-800-326-7114
Apple: 1-800-275-2273
Lucent/Orinoco: 1-866-674-6626 prompt 2
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