...for Virtual Connections

Wi-Fi Network / Fiber Optics

Wi-Fi Network

The City of Worthington's outdoor wireless network is free to users and is accessible along High Street between South Street and North Street and in both Worthington Libraries locations. The Wi-Fi network is provided by HarborLink Network and is supported through advertising and sponsorships. Click here to download Wi-Fi brochure.

What you need to connect

• A computer, pocket PC or personal digital assistant (PDA) with a wireless networking card. Many modern devices are Wi-Fi capable. If yours is not, an 802.11b or 802.11g card or a USB adaptor can be purchased from electronics stores starting at less than $40. Apple Airport is also compatible.
• Any web browser.
• Dual-band phones, which work off standard signals as well as Wi-Fi, can also use the system.

How it works

• Access points are located in both Old Worthington Library and Northwest Library, as well as at the Griswold Senior Center and along the mast arms of the City's traffic signals.
• Access points transmit radio signals at a specification of 802.11. They talk 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.

How to connect

• When in range, your wireless device will detect the system. Choose “harborlink” and accept the connection.
• Launch your web browser and carefully read and accept the HarborLink terms of use on the login page. (Library users should read and accept the Wireless Network Access Policy and the Acceptable Use of the Internet and Electronic Resources Policy.)
• The greeting page will appear with user links and sponsorships. This page will appear every 12 minutes while you are surfing.
• If you have access to a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your transmissions, first log on to the HarborLink access point then launch your VPN software.

Words of warning

• Eavesdroppers - The system is public, free and not secure. 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 Web sites.
• Public eyes - Your screen can be visible to passers-by. Surf sites 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 you need additional security, please obtain independently.

For technical support, contact
HarborLink at
(800) 451-0738 or e-mail info@harborlink.net.

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Fiber Optic Network 

The City of Worthington has a state-of-the-art opportunity available to Worthington businesses or those looking to locate within the City of Worthington. Through underground pathways able to hold multiple lines, a fiber optic network pulses through Worthington's business corridors, allowing businesses to expand and communicate with their clients and business partners whether it is next door, across town or around the world. The telecommunications infrastructure can provide access to high-speed data, cable, Internet and wireless communications and moves record amounts of voice, data or video information across enormous distances quickly, effectively and efficiently.

Columbus FiberNet is bringing access to this high-speed network to businesses in Worthington and throughout central Ohio through their underground conduit, which runs through Worthington's business districts. In addition to the Worthington area, Columbus FiberNet network also connects to business districts throughout central Ohio with a 70-mile duct ring encircling the greater Columbus area. The City of Worthington encourages businesses to contact Columbus FiberNet at (614) 274-8100 to see how they can meet your telecommunication needs.

For state-of-the-art communications, location, market access, skilled workers and a business-supportive community and government, Worthington is your Choice for Business. . . and success.

Please call the City of Worthington at (614) 436-3100 for more information about making Worthington your Choice for Business.

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