Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about the free wireless Internet access provided at this site.

What is a hot spot?

A hotspot is a venue that offers Wi-Fi access. It's a limited geographic location in which an access point provides public wireless broadband network services to mobile visitors. The public can use a laptop, Wi-Fi phone, or other suitable portable device to access the Internet. Wireless technology provides a simplified way to access the Internet with a mobile device for high-speed gathering or sending of information. With a wireless-enabled laptop, for example, the user turns on the laptop and it automatically searches for nearby wireless service access points (AP's). The user chooses one of those AP's which then launches the user onto the Internet.

Why are you providing free wireless Internet access?

With the Governor's signing of Executive Order S-23-06: Expanding Broadband Access and Usage in California, the State embarked on a significant initiative to promote widespread access to broadband and advanced communication services. The Department of General Services was directed by this Executive Order to provide wireless Internet access in State facilities that are most used by the public.

What is the wireless ID (SSID) of this free network?

The wireless ID (SSID) is: California_HotSpot

How do I connect to your wireless network and access the Internet?

Open the Network Connections on your wireless-enabled device and select the California_HotSpot wireless ID (SSID). Once you are connected, you will have access to the Internet.

Do I need a username and password to use the free wireless network?

No, this is a free Wi-Fi hot spot for anyone with a Wi-Fi enabled device. There is no identification or verification necessary at this time, however, THIS MAY CHANGE IN THE FUTURE.

How secure is this Internet access?

This is a free Public Wi-Fi hot spot. Anyone with a Wi-Fi card can access the Internet from this site. Once you have logged into a public hot spot, the data sent from your computer is generally not encrypted. As a result, it may be possible for a Wi-Fi-savvy person to monitor your online activities by capturing the wireless data packets sent from your computer.

Here are some rules you can follow to help protect yourself when using a public Wi-Fi hot spot:

• Never submit credit card information over a Wi-Fi connection unless the web site provides you with a secure SSL-protected page to enter your personal information. You can identify a SSL-protected page by looking for "https://" in the address bar of your web browser. Most web browsers will also display an icon of a yellow "lock" on the status bar of the browser. You can click on the "lock" icon to verify the security status of the web site.
• Protect the personal information on your computer/laptop by installing anti-virus software, a desktop firewall and software which protects you against spyware. It is also important to keep your device's operating system and web browser up-to-date with appropriate security patches/updates.

Glossary of Wi-Fi Acronyms