Running a WiFi Hotspot - Helpful information for Hotspot Systems6478298
Just what is a Wifi Hotspot solution? A WiFi Hotspot is definitely an area which has WiFi access to the Internet. The term Hotspot is used interchangeably for your the two area the location where the signal can be obtained along with the device (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that is certainly broadcasting the signal. Likewise the terms "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) are often used interchangeably.
Simple Hotspot - Outdoors or Unencryped Router.
The most effective way to run a Hotspot is to obtain a domestic WiFi router, use it to the web and hang the wireless security settings as "Disabled" or "Open". This would allow that you get the Internet and potentially also access other computers linked to the router. You would haven't much control over who connects and just how much bandwidth is used. For those who have no security concerns and aren't looking at making any money this is the simple strategy to use. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The Encrypted Router with WPA or WEP
An alternative is usually to enable security around the router, there are two kinds of WiFi security WEP and WPA - WPA will be the newer plus much more secure. With both types you specify a "key" the industry code you need to connect. You could educate your customers just what the WPA or WEP key's and they could connect. This offers some security and I guess you might alter the WPA or WEP key every day, however there's nothing to stop someone telling their friend the true secret so it is not suitable for generating revenue.
The Captive-Portal.
Nearly all commercial Hotspots are Captive Portals, this seems as a wide open or Unencrypted WiFi signal but redirects any traffic to a certain web page known as a "Splash Page" where your often asked to login or purchase access to the internet. It is a clever way of doing things since several laptops will automatically connect to an empty WiFi signal, then when a client runs Traveler (or which ever Web browser they will use) they are sent to your splash page whatever site they struggle to hook up with.
Walled Garden.
When discussing Captive Portals the phrase "Walled Garden" is usually used. It is a website or websites a customer can hook up to without having to pay. For instance a customer connecting for your Hotspot will probably be diverted for the Splash Page. They'll then obtain a choice of spending money on internet connection or accessing free websites you've selected, by way of example your Hotel website or local attractions websites.
Hosted Hotspot Services.
There are lots of companies offering business people a hosted hotspot service. These facilities normally involve installing an altered Linksys WRT54GL router on the customer premises that redirect people to a splash page hosted with the hotspot company. The service provider normally also processes payment for Throttle. These facilities normally work with an income sharing basis where the webhost give the hotspot owner a portion from the income from the hotspot. Some companies also charge the hotspot owner a month-to-month fee for making use of their professional services.