Building a WiFi Hotspot - Strategies for Hotspot Systems4580758
Just what Social Wifi? A WiFi Hotspot is surely an area which includes WiFi internet connection. The phrase Hotspot is currently used interchangeably for your both the area the location where the signal can be acquired and the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that's broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) tend to be used interchangeably.
Simple Hotspot - Outside or Unencryped Router.
The best way to run a Hotspot is to obtain a domestic WiFi router, connect it to the Internet and hang the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This may allow one to connect to the Internet and potentially also access other computers attached to the router. You'd probably haven't much treatments for who connects and just how much bandwidth can be used. When you have no security concerns and aren't taking a look at creating any money this can be a simple approach to take. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP
An alternative is always to enable security for the router, there are two forms of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA could be the newer plus much more secure. With both types you specify a "key" the code you have to connect. You may inform your customers what the WPA or WEP secret is and so they could connect. This gives some security and I guess you could change the WPA or WEP key daily, however there's nothing to stop someone telling their friend the main element so it will be not perfect for generating revenue.
The Captive-Portal.
Virtually all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this looks like an empty or Unencrypted WiFi signal then again redirects any traffic to a particular web site called a "Splash Page" where your often inspired to login or purchase throttle. This can be a clever method of doing things since many laptops will automatically hook up with a wide open WiFi signal, proper an individual runs Internet Explorer (or which ever Browser they normally use) they may be provided for your splash page regardless of what site they struggle to connect with.
Walled Garden.
When discussing Captive Portals the phrase "Walled Garden" is often used. It is a website or websites that the customer can connect to without paying. For example a customer connecting in your Hotspot is going to be diverted for the Splash Page. They'll then be given a collection of paying for throttle or accessing free websites you have chosen, for example your Hotel website or local attractions websites.
Hosted Hotspot Services.
There are several companies offering companies a hosted hotspot service. These types of normally involve installing an improved Linksys WRT54GL router about the customer premises that redirect website visitors to a splash page hosted through the hotspot company. The webhost normally also processes payment for Internet connection. These facilities normally work on a revenue sharing basis the place that the service provider pay the hotspot owner a share with the income from your hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a monthly fee for implementing their services.