What is a computer library?
Pollard’s answer is right — the term “computer library” may mean many things.Programmers use the term “library” to refer to a bundled set of procedures that help them achieve desired effect (for example, network communication or graphics display, or some mathematical operations). Admittedly, “library” is a terrible name for this concept, and they should have chosen the term “glossary” (because that’s what it actually is — a set of definitions from a particular domain of knowledge/activity). But the term is now so widespread that there seems to be no way back.
Why is the public computer at the library so slow?
Sadly, public libraries usually receive very little funding in most districts, so it's not surprising at all if they bought cheaper/slower desktops. But the real reason its slow is probably because they're running on an old and/or cheap and/or overtaxed network. The library's computer network very likely was put together by a volunteer using donated equipment, and the Internet connection that feeds the network is very likely a cheaper option like low-end cable or possibly even DSL. Again it goes back to the funding issue: the libraries have to work with what they have, and if they spend all their IT budget this year on new desktops then that means they probably didn't have money left over to upgrade their switches and router or buy a high-bandwidth ISP plan.
Can you download stuff at the library computer?
It really depends on what your library allows, as different libraries have varying policies. However, most are not so strict as to disable downloading. That said, if you can't download iTunes from your personal computer, then it's probably an internet problem, not your CPU. If it is a CPU problem (you must be using some really old hardware), then I'd try downloading an older version of iTunes Edit: -Did the older version work for you? -What are your system specs? I'm beginning to think iTunes isn't going to happen, but we'll see.
If a person were to use a public computer (i.e, library), couldn't they do anything since their IP could not be traced back to them?
That really depends, but your question does have some merit.On the one hand, some locations want to see some form of identification or charge a card or set up an account for the person using the computer. In some spaces, it is a way to charge for the use or others to track who is using it. The reason some locations are using some means to track or charge is relatively new but it is because of part two of this answer.On the other hand, a lot of attacks have been carried out through public systems. Libraries and net cafes have been used countless times to be part of a botnet or to transmit malware, or just used to download illicit material. The public use anonymity is the reason.But also consider that using free wireless in a public space can also help you mask your identity, since you will be piggybacking the location’s connection to the internet, protected behind their ISP NAT and Firewall. You might have some restrictions if the location has a clever admin that puts restrictions on their system, but that is limited in most commercial and ISP provided technology.Now, while you may be asked for some credentials to use the public computer or the gateway tells you it is logging your IP address to use their public wireless, there are always ways around that. I will not go into those ways here. If you want to be a criminal, you are going to have to earn the information the old fashion way.
At college or a library do all the computers have the same IP address?
If they're on the same LAN they have the same IP address as far as the site can see. In one lab, or in a library, it's almost certain that they're all on the same LAN. In the whole college? All the computers in the college may be on the same LAN or they may have multiple accounts (meaning that the computers in another building may be on a different IP address). It's easy enough to chesk - go to http://www.whatsmyip.org/ and you'll see the computer's IP address.
How did someone else's iTunes Library appear on MY computer?
It's because of the network connection. The person who's internet you're using also has iTunes and has turned on sharing. When you connect to their wireless internet, it connects your computer to the router they have so you are on the network. If a computer is on, has iTunes running, has sharing turned on, and is connected to the network, other people will be able to use iTunes to see the other computer's library. They can't see what you're doing on your computer unless you deliberately install software to let them do it. If they try and find out if someone else is connected to their network, they will be able to find out, but unless they know a lot about computers you're probably safe. To make sure the other person can't see your iTunes library, go to Edit - Preferences, click the Sharing tab, and untick "Share my library on my local network". You can also untick "Look for shared libraries" to hide their library. :)
Can a person download onto the computer of a public library computer programs while using it?
You can't install programs on a public computer. That capability is blocked to prevent people from installing virus'. But if you need to download the file and then copy it to a thumb drive or CD etc to take home you should be able to do that unless they've set the group policy to prevent you from even downloading.
How can I become an administrator on a library computer?
Many technical ways, but performing any of them without authorization will certainly land you in trouble. And in some cases, you might end up in jail.Actually, I should ask this question first:Why do you want to become the administrator?There are many valid reasons… but many more invalid reasons.
When using a computer at a public library, do you think it is rude of people to type loudly?
I find it to be annoying, too, however, it's usually the type of key boards being used. I don't think it's rude, merely distracting. You should do what I do, take a pair of ear plugs with you when you need to experience a time of quiet, they block out a lot of noise. - Pepper.
My parents took away my computer. I am nowhere near a library and I have small amount of mobile Internet. I qualified for IPhO and IOAA. They don't understand the importance of the olympiads. How can I prepare now?
Mohamed’s answer is great! I, however, would like to focus on something else. What made your parents take away your computer at such an important time? I guess you must be furious (I’d be) but I would suggest trying to convince them to give it back to you using clear and logical arguments. Focus on your achievements and the fact that you qualify for such an important contest and try to make them see how wrong and potentially harmful to your future their decision is.All the best!!