City of Ames Public Guest Wireless Network – Terms of Use

Effective Date: 04/08/2026
Policy Version: 1.0

The City of Ames provides a public guest wireless network (“Guest Network”) as a convenience for visitors, vendors, and members of the public. Use of this network constitutes acceptance of the following Terms of Use.

Permitted Use

The Guest Network is intended to support general internet access for lawful personal and business activities. The City reserves the right to manage network resources to ensure availability and reliability for all users.

Use of the Guest Network is a privilege, not a right, and access may be restricted or terminated at any time without prior notice.

Prohibited Activities

Users may not utilize the Guest Network to engage in activities that are unlawful or that interfere with the security, integrity, or performance of City technology resources.

Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Violations of local, state, or federal law
  • Attempting unauthorized access to systems or data
  • Intercepting network traffic or conducting surveillance
  • Distribution of malware or malicious software
  • Fraudulent or deceptive practices
  • Harassment or threats toward others
  • Operating servers or commercial services
  • Excessive bandwidth consumption that degrades service for other users

The City may implement technical controls, including traffic management and content restrictions, to protect network operations.

Security and Privacy Notice

The Guest Network is a public wireless service. Users should have no expectation of privacy when using this network.

The City may monitor, log, and review network activity for purposes including, but not limited to:

  • Maintaining system security
  • Protecting public resources
  • Investigating suspected misuse
  • Complying with legal obligations
  • Supporting lawful law enforcement requests

Information collected may include device identifiers, IP addresses, connection timestamps, and related network metadata.

Users are responsible for protecting their own devices and data. The City strongly recommends the use of encrypted connections and other appropriate security measures when transmitting sensitive information.

Limitation of Liability

The Guest Network is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied.

The City of Ames shall not be liable for any damages arising from use of the network, including but not limited to:

  • Loss of data
  • Unauthorized access
  • Service interruptions
  • Device damage
  • Exposure to malicious software

Enforcement and Cooperation with Authorities

The City reserves the right to suspend or block access for any user or device that violates these Terms or poses a threat to the safety, security, or functionality of City systems.

The City will cooperate with lawful investigations and may provide network records when required by subpoena, court order, or other authorized legal process.

Policy Updates

The City may modify these Terms of Use at any time. Continued use of the Guest Network after updates are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

For questions regarding this policy, please contact: IT Division, City of Ames

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