Tampa, FL, May 8-10, 2008
As a service to its registrants, APS has arranged with the Tampa Convention Center's internet service provider to provide free, wireless Internet access in the APS meeting space within the Convention Center during the APS meeting. Meeting attendees who wish to use this service should bring their own laptop computer or PDA with a built-in wireless network card or with an external wireless card that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible. Please be advised that technical support will not be provided. Users of the wireless network should read the disclaimer and the FAQ below before accessing the network.
To get wireless Internet access at APS 27th Annual Scientific Meeting:
- Bring a laptop or PDA with a built-in wireless network card or with an external wireless card that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible.
- Set your network card to use DHCP.
- Set the SSID (wireless network identifier) to: APS2008, with no WEP required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is wireless Internet access being made available?
We believe our registrants will benefit from on-site access to the Internet making the APS annual meeting a more productive and enjoyable experience.
What can I do with wireless Internet access?
There are no restrictions or limits on the wireless network. Feel free to browse the Web, communicate with your colleagues, or use any other Internet activity. Please remember to consider the security implications of using the wireless network and protect your laptop appropriately.
Who runs the wireless network?
The wireless network is owned and operated by the Tampa Convention Center. Center personnel will be in charge of maintaining the network during the meeting.
What computer hardware is required?
You will need a wireless network card that supports the 802.11b standard or 802.11g compatible.
What settings are needed to use this system?
The SSID (wireless network identifier) of the wireless network at the convention center is APS2008. You will not need to enable WEP (wireless encryption) or require a password. You will need to set your network card to use DHCP.
What operating systems can use it?
Any computer that can use a wireless network card can be configured to use the wireless network in the Tampa Convention Center. This includes all versions of Microsoft Windows, Macintosh, and many versions of Unix. In fact, some PDA's have built-in wireless network cards, and can join the wireless network.
Where will wireless Internet access be available?
Wireless Internet access will be available in the east registration space in the convention center.
Is the wireless network secure?
No. Due to the unrestricted nature of this service, the wireless network should not be considered secure. All registrants using the wireless network should take necessary precautions to ensure that their laptops are protected from network snoops and hackers. Some precautionary measures include:
- Using the latest software patches and anti-virus software.
- Using a personal firewall such as ZoneAlarm.
- Using VPN software (where possible) to securely communicate with office intranets.
Many Web sites provide information on wireless network security. Meeting attendees are strongly urged to be cognizant of the risks associated with connecting to such a large, unregulated network. Please also read the disclaimer.
Is WEP used to secure my wireless connection?
In the Tampa Convention Center, WEP (Wireless Equivalent Privacy) is not supported. WEP is based on "shared secret" encryption. Shared secret encryption means that the "secret" (the key to the encryption) must be shared with all users on the wireless network. Consequently, this type of security solution is neither practical nor meaningful when used on a public network of this size.
What can I do to enhance the security of my communications?
Keep in mind that no solution or practice can guarantee security, and not every solution can abate every security risk. Below are some personal practices and technology solutions you may use to enhance security when using the convention center wireless network, or any other service you use to access the Internet.
- Don't leave your computer or device unattended.
- Don't loan your computer or device to someone unfamiliar to you.
- Properly log out of Web sites by clicking log out instead of just closing your browser, or typing in a new Internet address.
- Passwords should be a combination of letters and numbers.
- Keep passwords and account numbers secure; don't store them on your computer or device, or share them with anyone.
- Change your passwords frequently.
- When transmitting confidential information (e.g., credit card information) look for "https//..." in the web page address and a locked padlock (or key) icon on your Internet browser as indicators you are accessing a secure site.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) solution if available and supported by the network.
- Use a personal firewall if available and supported by the network.
- Avoid using Web-based e-mail or instant messaging that uses clear (unencrypted) text to send information you deem confidential.
- Remove or disable your wireless card if you are working offline on your computer and you are not planning to connect to the wireless network.
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability For Wireless Internet Access Provided at APS 27th Annual Scientific Meeting in Tampa, FL May 8-10, 2008.
The Wireless Internet Access provided by the American Pain Society at APS 27th Annual Scientific Meeting is for use free of charge by meeting attendees and staff only. Wireless Access is provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis and APS does not warrant that this service will be uninterrupted, error-free, or free of viruses or other harmful components. Users should be aware that there are security, privacy, and confidentiality risks inherent in wireless communications and technology and APS does not make any assurances or warranties relating to such risks. By using Wireless Internet Access user agrees that APS is not liable for any costs or damages arising from use of this service and APS does not control any materials, information, products or services on the Internet.
