Running a WiFi Hotspot - Strategies for Hotspot Systems1280361

Just what is a Social Wifi? A WiFi Hotspot is an area that has WiFi internet connection. The definition of Hotspot is used interchangeably for the both the area in which the signal is available along with the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that is broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) tend to be used interchangeably.

Simple Hotspot - The Open or Unencryped Router. The simplest way to operate a Hotspot is usually to purchase a domestic WiFi router, use it to the net and set the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This may allow anyone to get the Internet and potentially also access other computers linked to the router. You'd probably have little control of who connects and the way much bandwidth is employed. For those who have no security concerns and aren't taking a look at earning any money it is a simple best option. Cost ~$50-100 Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP An alternative is always to enable security around the router, there's 2 forms of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA could be the newer and more secure. With types you specify a "key" the code you need to connect. You could tell your customers what the WPA or WEP key's and they could connect. This will give some security i guess you may alter the WPA or WEP key each day, however nothing is to avoid someone telling friends with them the true secret so it is not suitable for making money. The Captive-Portal. Nearly all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this seems as a or Unencrypted WiFi signal but redirects any website visitors to a certain web site known as a "Splash Page" where your often asked to login or purchase internet connection. This is the clever strategy for doing things as most laptops will automatically hook up with a wide open WiFi signal, then when an individual runs Traveler (or no matter which Web browser they'll use) these are provided for your splash page it doesn't matter what site they fight to connect with. Walled Garden. When discussing Captive Portals the word "Walled Garden" is often used. This is a website or websites which a customer can hook up to without having to pay. Such as a customer connecting for your Hotspot will likely be diverted towards the Splash Page. They will then be given a choice of investing in internet connection or accessing free websites you've selected, by way of example your Hotel website or local attractions websites. Hosted Hotspot Services. There are lots of companies offering business owners a hosted hotspot service. These types of normally involve installing a modified Linksys WRT54GL router around the customer premises that redirect visitors to a splash page hosted from the hotspot company. The hosting company normally also processes payment for Internet access. These services normally work with an income sharing basis in which the service provider pay the hotspot owner a percentage with the income from the hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a regular monthly fee for using their professional services.