Running a WiFi Hotspot - Strategies for Hotspot Systems5042028
Exactly what is a Free Wifi? A WiFi Hotspot is an area containing WiFi access to the Internet. The phrase Hotspot is now used interchangeably to the the area where the signal can be obtained as well as the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that is broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) in many cases are used interchangeably.
Simple Hotspot - Outdoors or Unencryped Router.
The best way to own a Hotspot is always to purchase a domestic WiFi router, hook it up to the web and set the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This would allow anyone to access the Internet and potentially also access other computers coupled to the router. You would have little treating who connects and the way much bandwidth is employed. If you have no security concerns and aren't looking at coming to a money this is the simple strategy to use. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP
An alternative choice would be to enable security around the router, there's 2 kinds of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA will be the newer plus more secure. With types you specify a "key" the code you need to connect. You may educate your customers just what the WPA or WEP key's and so they could connect. This provides some security and I guess you might affect the WPA or WEP key each day, however nothing is to halt someone telling their friend the true secret therefore it is not perfect for earning cash.
The Captive-Portal.
Virtually all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this seems as an empty or Unencrypted WiFi signal then again redirects any traffic to a certain web page termed as a "Splash Page" where your often inspired to login or purchase internet connection. This can be a clever way of doing things since many laptops will automatically hook up to a wide open WiFi signal, then when a person runs Ie (or no matter which Web browser they'll use) they are shipped to your splash page regardless of what site they fight to hook up with.
Walled Garden.
When discussing Captive Portals the phrase "Walled Garden" is frequently used. This can be a website or websites that a customer can hook up to without. Like a customer connecting to your Hotspot will likely be diverted on the Splash Page. They will then be given a collection of spending money on internet connection or accessing free websites you've chosen, for instance your Hotel website or local attractions websites.
Hosted Hotspot Services.
There are numerous companies offering companies a hosted hotspot service. These types of services normally involve installing a modified Linksys WRT54GL router about the customer premises that redirect people to a splash page hosted with the hotspot company. The service provider normally also processes payment for Internet connection. These facilities normally work with an income sharing basis the location where the hosting company pay the hotspot owner a portion of the income through the hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a regular monthly fee for using their services.