Owning a WiFi Hotspot - A Guide to Hotspot Systems2857248
Just what is a Free Wifi? A WiFi Hotspot is surely an area that has WiFi internet connection. The phrase Hotspot is currently used interchangeably for the the area the place that the signal can be acquired along with the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that's broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) will often be used interchangeably.
Simple Hotspot - Outside or Unencryped Router.
The simplest way to operate a Hotspot would be to purchase a domestic WiFi router, use it to the Internet and hang up the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This could allow you to definitely access the Internet and potentially also access other computers coupled to the router. You would have little control of who connects and the way much bandwidth is employed. If you have no security concerns and aren't looking at earning any money this is a simple approach to take. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP
Another option is to enable security around the router, there are 2 varieties of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA will be the newer and more secure. With types you specify a "key" the industry code you have to connect. You could inform your customers just what the WPA or WEP secret's plus they could connect. This offers some security i guess you may change the WPA or WEP key each day, however you'll find nothing to prevent someone telling friends with them the important thing so it is not ideal for earning cash.
The Captive-Portal.
Nearly all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this sounds like an Open or Unencrypted WiFi signal but then redirects any website visitors to a particular site known as a "Splash Page" where your often asked to login or purchase internet connection. This can be a clever way of doing things since several laptops will automatically connect to an empty WiFi signal, proper a person runs Traveler (or which ever Browser they normally use) they may be provided for your splash page whatever site they struggle to hook up with.
Walled Garden.
When discussing Captive Portals the definition of "Walled Garden" can often be used. It is a website or websites that the customer can connect to without paying. Such as a customer connecting for your Hotspot will be diverted on the Splash Page. They'll then be given a selection of purchasing throttle or accessing free websites you've chosen, for example your Hotel website or local attractions websites.
Hosted Hotspot Services.
There are numerous companies offering companies a hosted hotspot service. These facilities normally involve installing a modified Linksys WRT54GL router on the customer premises that redirect website visitors to a splash page hosted from the hotspot company. The service provider normally also processes payment for Access to the internet. These types of services normally work with a revenue sharing basis in which the host pay the hotspot owner a part of the income from your hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a monthly fee for utilizing their helps.