Owning a WiFi Hotspot - Helpful tips for Hotspot Systems2559457
Just what is a wifi hotspot system? A WiFi Hotspot is an area which includes WiFi access to the Internet. The phrase Hotspot is currently used interchangeably for the both area the place that the signal can be obtained as well as the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Entry way) that is certainly 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 usually to obtain a domestic WiFi router, use it online as well as set the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This might allow one to get the Internet and potentially also access other computers coupled to the router. You'll have little control of who connects and exactly how much bandwidth can be used. When you have no security concerns and are not looking at earning any money this can be a simple way to go. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP
An alternative is always to enable security around the router, there's two forms of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA is the newer and more secure. With both types you specify a "key" that is a code you have to connect. You might educate your customers what are the WPA or WEP secret is and so they could connect. This gives some security i guess you may change the WPA or WEP key daily, however there is nothing to prevent someone telling friends with them the key so it is not suitable for generating revenue.
The Captive-Portal.
Nearly all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this sounds like a wide open or Unencrypted WiFi signal then again redirects any visitors to a unique website referred to as a "Splash Page" where your often asked to login or purchase access to the internet. This can be a clever way of doing things because so many laptops will automatically hook up to an open WiFi signal, then when a person runs Internet Explorer (or no matter which Visitor they'll use) they may be shipped to your splash page no matter what site they struggle to hook up with.
Walled Garden.
When discussing Captive Portals the definition of "Walled Garden" can often be used. This can be a website or websites which a customer can connect to without having. Like a customer connecting to your Hotspot will likely be diverted towards the Splash Page. They will then be given a choice of purchasing internet access 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 facilities normally involve installing an altered Linksys WRT54GL router for the customer premises that redirect traffic to a splash page hosted by the hotspot company. The webhost normally also processes payment for Internet access. These types of normally work on an income sharing basis the location where the webhost pay the hotspot owner a share in the income from the hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a month-to-month fee for utilizing their professional services.