Building a WiFi Hotspot - A Guide to Hotspot Systems1630621

Exactly what is a wifi hotspot system? A WiFi Hotspot is an area that has WiFi internet access. The phrase Hotspot is currently used interchangeably for that both area in which the signal is available as well as the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Feeder point) that is broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) will often be used interchangeably.

Simple Hotspot - The Open or Unencryped Router. The simplest way to operate a Hotspot would be to obtain a domestic WiFi router, use it to the web and set the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This could allow anyone to get the Internet and potentially also access other computers linked to the router. You'd have very little treating who connects and exactly how much bandwidth is used. If you have no security concerns and aren't investigating earning any money it is a simple strategy to use. Cost ~$50-100 Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP Another option is always to enable security around the router, there are two kinds of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA may be the newer and much more secure. With types you specify a "key" the industry code you need to connect. You could inform your customers exactly what the WPA or WEP secret's plus they could connect. This provides some security and that i guess you can customize the WPA or WEP key on a daily basis, however there is nothing to prevent someone telling friends with them the important thing therefore it is not perfect for making money. The Captive-Portal. Nearly all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this looks like a or Unencrypted WiFi signal but then redirects any website visitors to a certain site known as a "Splash Page" where your often required to login or purchase access to the internet. This is the clever way of doing things because so many laptops will automatically hook up with a wide open WiFi signal, then when an individual runs Ie (or which Internet browser they will use) they may be shipped to your splash page it doesn't matter what site they fight to hook up with. Walled Garden. When discussing Captive Portals the definition of "Walled Garden" is frequently used. It is a website or websites which a customer can connect to without having. Like a customer connecting on your Hotspot is going to be diverted to the Splash Page. They are going to then be given a choice of purchasing internet connection or accessing free websites you have chosen, as an example your Hotel website or local attractions websites. Hosted Hotspot Services. There are several companies offering companies a hosted hotspot service. These services normally involve installing a modified Linksys WRT54GL router on the customer premises that redirect people to a splash page hosted by the hotspot company. The host normally also processes payment for Throttle. These facilities normally work on a revenue sharing basis in which the service provider spend the money for hotspot owner a portion of the income through the hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a monthly fee for utilizing their helps.