Research Guides: Internet and WiFi Resources: Home

The library has indefinitely paused the laptop lending program. Students should check with Financial Aid to see if the student has available funds to use to purchase a laptop.

We do have limited equipment available for check out to currently enrolled students on a first come, first served basis. Equipment includes hotspots, scientific and graphing calculators, webcams, and cameras.

Resources

Affordable Connectivity Program
he Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.
Blog: How To Get Free Wifi Anywhere You Go (Without Regretting It)
"Today, we share the best ways to get free Wi-Fi on any phone or laptop. The trick is knowing where and how to look, whilst keeping safe. That last part is important - you’ll see why!"
Cox Connect2Compete
Home internet is an essential tool for today’s education. Through Connect2Compete, Cox opens a world of opportunity for families with K-12 students by providing affordable, home internet with wifi.
FindHelp.org
FindHelp.org is a social care connection website that allows users to search for programs in any area that give access to community assistance such as food, housing, education, and more. This link shows local community services that may provide internet or WiFi access.
WiFi Map
WiFi Map is a website or phone app that shows users hotspots in their areas.

Local Libraries

Hampton Public Library
Computers are available at all locations from opening until about 20 minutes before closing. Computers are available to walk-in patrons on a first-come, first-served basis. You may also reserve one up to seven days ahead of time in person or by calling (757) 727-1312.
Newport News Public Library: WiFi Hotspots
NNPL patrons can now check out a Wi-Fi Hotspot device with their all-access membership. This service is free and available to all adult members (18+) whose accounts are in good standing.
Poquoson Public Library
Free Internet Access
including wifi, is available for all patrons with library cards. We recommend that parents/legal guardians accompany children under 13 while they are online.
Williamsburg Regional Library
WRL has many computer and technology resources for library patrons.
York County Library
Both libraries have public computers with internet access and Microsoft Office 2010 Word, Excel and PowerPoint. You will need your library card to sign in. Wireless internet access is also available at both libraries.

Important: The Dangers of Public WiFi

While public WiFi and hotspots are useful in a pinch, there are many pitfalls that go along with it. Be aware and be safe, and you can avoid hackers, scammers, and viruses on your devices.

Do	Do Not
Be aware that public WiFi networks are unencrypted and insecure. Know that "fake" WiFi connections exist that might seem legitimate. Confirm with the library, cafe, or store that you are using the correct network if you are unsure. Limit your time on the public network as much as possible. You can check if a site has encryption by looking for ‘HTTPS’ at the start of its address, instead of HTTP. Consider getting a VPN or Malware detection for your devices as an additional precaution.	Do not trust any open network that you see. Do not do anything on public WiFi that you consider confidential. That includes checking email, using your credit card information, or checking your bank accounts. Avoid financial transactions and healthcare information. Avoid allowing your device to automatically connect to free / open networks. This may allow fake connections to access your information. Do not forget to log out of all of your accounts before leaving the network, and remember to select "Forget this Network" after each use. Do not hesitate to contact VPCC IT Help and ask for assistance!

Do Not

Be aware that public WiFi networks are unencrypted and insecure.
Know that "fake" WiFi connections exist that might seem legitimate. Confirm with the library, cafe, or store that you are using the correct network if you are unsure.
Limit your time on the public network as much as possible.
You can check if a site has encryption by looking for ‘HTTPS’ at the start of its address, instead of HTTP.
Consider getting a VPN or Malware detection for your devices as an additional precaution.

Do not trust any open network that you see.
Do not do anything on public WiFi that you consider confidential. That includes checking email, using your credit card information, or checking your bank accounts. Avoid financial transactions and healthcare information.
Avoid allowing your device to automatically connect to free / open networks. This may allow fake connections to access your information.
Do not forget to log out of all of your accounts before leaving the network, and remember to select "Forget this Network" after each use.
Do not hesitate to contact VPCC IT Help and ask for assistance!