subject: Wi-Fi hotspots, wireless networking at certain places [print this page] Wi-Fi which is an acronym for wireless fidelity is a wireless network connectivity technology that has been built on IEEE 802.11 standards. Computers and communicating devices such as cell phones that have Wi-Fi Network Interface Card connects to the internet without the need for a physical connection such as cable. However, access to the internet is enabled by an access point, i.e. wireless router that utilizes either DSL modem or cable connection. Internet connectivity can either be an open network or closed network. In the open network, any user with Wi-Fi can gain access without any form of limitations while closed network requires user authentication, i.e. password before given access.
Wi-Fi development has given rise to hotspots, which are areas such as buildings or parks or cities that are covered by wireless network. The first idea of hotspot areas dates back as far as 1993 in San Francisco but was to be later advanced by Nokia. Its growth has been enormous over the years with most cities worldwide now implementing the technology as a mean to provide users with the flexibility to work from anywhere.
The setup of Wi-Fi hotspot requires the installation of an access point, e.g. wireless router that connects to the internet via broadband. Public areas where you are likely to find Wi-Fi hotspot are hospitals, supermarkets, air ports, coffee shops, bookstores, museums and libraries among other government buildings.
Wi-Fi hotspot zones can be classified into two main classes, i.e. free Wi-Fi and Commercial hotspots. Free hotspots allow connection to the internet via public network. In addition, access is not restricted as anyone with a Wi-Fi wireless router can deactivate the user authentication requirement thus enabling anybody with a Wi-Fi based device free access. Closed public networks, however, does restrict access. The Wi-Fi router in this type of network is installed with an application program that enables the owner to manage and control the amount of bandwidth available to users in the network at any given time.
Commercial Wi-Fi hotspot is revenue based and requires users to make payments in order to be provided with the hotspot connection. The following traits are common with commercial hotspots and can be used to distinguish it from free Wi-Fi hotspots. Login screen that directs users to be authenticated and to make payments, payment service options such as credit card or iPass and a walled garden that enables those logged in to access any particular website.
