Wi-Fi Frequently Asked Questions
The City of Durham is pleased to provide FREE Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) on GoDurham buses.
Q: What are the terms and conditions for using GoDurham’s Wi-Fi?
A: Please browse our Terms and Conditions for using Wi-Fi.
Q: Will GoDurham drivers be able to assist with Wi-Fi questions or problems?
A: No. GoDurham drivers have no training in setup or usage of the Wi-Fi service. If you believe there is a problem with the Wi-Fi service, please submit a comment to GoDurham feedback or call 919-485-RIDE (7433).
Q: Why do I lose connection to the wireless network?
A: We do not guarantee service to be up 100 percent of the time. Also, this service is just like a cell phone. There will be “dead spots” on different roads.
Q: How long does it take to connect to the wireless network?
A: If connection has been lost due to a dead spot, it can take up to 5 minutes for the connection to re-establish once a signal has been found.
Q: Which GoDurham buses have FREE Wi-Fi?
A: All GoDurham buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi.
Q: Is there a cost to use the wireless network?
A: No. Wi-Fi on GoDurham is free.
Q: When can the wireless network be used?
A: The wireless network is available while the bus is powered on.
Q: Where can I sit to pick up a stronger signal?
A: The signal strength is fairly consistent, regardless of where you sit on the bus.
Q: What is a Wireless network and how does it work?
A: Wireless networking is a method of connecting a laptop computer, smartphone or other portable wireless device to the internet using radio signals or other network resources without using a phone line or data port. A wireless network has two primary components: an access point and a wireless access card. GoDurham provides the wireless access points that transmit signals within the bus. These access points communicate with wireless access cards installed on riders’ wireless devices to allow access to the internet.
Q: Is it difficult to connect to the wireless network?
A: No. Most devices automatically detect the wireless network and configure themselves to pick up the wireless signal.
Q: What is needed to connect to the wireless network?
A: A laptop, smartphone or other wireless portable device that conforms to the 802.11g standard. Most new laptops come with wireless technology. To use wireless with an older device, riders may need purchase a newer wireless network adapter.
Q: What type of wireless technology is used?
A: 802.11g is used.
Q: Can I connect to the Wi-Fi service with my Bluetooth?
A: No. Bluetooth is not supported.
Q: How secure is the wireless network?
A: Because wireless networks use radio signals, data traveling through a wireless network can be intercepted. Users should pay attention and encrypt sensitive information (passwords and confidential documentation) when communicating over the wireless network. It is the responsibility of patrons to ensure up-to-date anti-virus and anti-malware software is installed on their laptops or wireless devices.
Q: Is the wireless connection filtered?
A: GoDurham wireless connection is not filtered. However, each GoDurham rider is expected to adhere to GoDurham’s Wi-Fi Terms and Conditions.
Q: Do appliances affect my computer’s wireless signals?
A: Cordless telephones, wireless headsets, and cameras can all affect 2.4 GHz wireless devices. Other access points can also interfere with the wireless network.
Q: I cannot seem to connect to the wireless network. Can you help?
- Check to see if you have a signal. Signal strengths may vary in different seats on the bus or along the bus route.
- Type a web address directly into your browser’s URL address bar (i.e. http://www.google.com)
- Do you have an IP address? The IP address should be something like 192.168.133.55 (The last two set of numbers may be different)
- If all else fails, reboot your device.
- If you reboot and still cannot connect, then, please consult your equipment manufacturer.
Q: Can I connect to my office using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection while riding a GoDurham bus?
A: Yes. VPN access is not blocked but may be slow.
Q: Why is the wireless network slow?
A: The Wi-Fi connection is based on 4G speed. Also the Wi-Fi network is shared among all riders on the bus. If a lot of people are using the network, then the speed will decrease. Also, depending on the route being traveled, our Internet Service Provider’s (ISP’s) signal might be weak, which leads to slower speeds.