Wireless Networks: Free Wireless Access

The availability of free wireless access in local communities with the use of web sites that allows searches for accessibility of wires networks all over the country is the scope of this paper. The paper also provides background information about the experience of having to browse the internet with the use of free wireless access.

The paper arrives at a conclusion with a commentary on the issues concerning the movement persuading the government to provide free wireless access to everyone and its possible influences and outcomes, especially to the people and the business sector. It also provides a critical analysis about the notion behind free access, or not having to pay at all, for wireless network connections.

Using the three search engines, Wi-Fi Free Spot, JiWire, and HotSpot Locations, the scope of free wireless access providers can be identified. In the United States alone, there are numerous areas, town, cities or states alike, where free wireless access is available.

Business establishments, such as restaurants, coffee houses, gasoline stations, hotels, movie theaters, etc. provides free wireless access for their customers. Areas that are open to the public, such as public libraries, airports, bus stations, post offices, parks, hospitals, museums, schools and universities, some residential areas, and even beaches, also have free access to wireless networks.

Browsing through the World Wide Web with the use of a free wireless network is fast and easy.  Unlike other business establishments who provide subscriptions or payments for the use of their wireless networks, the free wireless access requires no payment at all. Despite the fact that internet usage is free of charge, it also comes with high-speed internet connectivity that would satisfy the requirements of customers who access the internet in these areas.

However, accessing the wireless network for free would bring you to electronic billboards packed with numerous advertisements promoting several products and merchandises. Some establishments even advertise their own products over the World Wide Web. For instance, a coffee shop would advertise their most popular or newly launched products while their customer is browsing through the internet, by posting banner advertisements, pop-up windows etc.

Well-known brand name producers of personal computers and input devices, mobile phones and personal digital assistants, and such even post banner advertisements to promote their products. I am guessing that these paid advertisements provide for the payment and maintenance of free wireless networks. However, I might be thinking incorrectly.

There are numerous wireless operators providing wireless network services in all areas free of charge. The advent of wireless services access began as the use of wireless technologies such as laptops, personal digital assistants, pocket personal computers, and mobile phones has become widespread not just in the country but worldwide. This served as an opportunity for business corporations and establishments to gain a new breed of clients, in this case, internet users and clients.

The United States government’s policy to provide free wireless access to all was organized by network managements, businessmen and online clients who would want to gain access to the World Wide Web anywhere they go without having to pay anything, and business proprietors alike who were aiming to draw customers to their establishments to help increase their profit.

At first, wireless access was offered with due fees that was to be paid by the customer. The free wireless access was implemented right after, when people nationwide asked for free access to networks because of its positive outcomes and benefits.

However, providing free wireless access to all harbors certain issues and concerns to the minds of the people. If wireless access is free, then who is paying for it? Business corporations and establishments who advertise through the internet contributes to free wireless access, however, to base the complimentary access tow wireless networks on paid advertisements is improbable.

As city governments over the country are starting to implement the free wireless access to all policy, some people have started second-guessing the concept of free access to wireless networks. Many people say that it is not at all free because the people pay for network access through the taxes they pay to the city government.

This issue takes side with the people who do not at all use wireless networks to access the internet. As this is the case, they are obligated to pay for what they are not actually using. However, the benefits of free wireless access to all policy is undeniable, as it is not only available in business establishments but in public areas as well.

For instance, providing free network access services in public libraries, educational institutions and universities, and parks, would be beneficial to the learning process of students and the pedagogical techniques of educators. It also organizes and systematizes the life of a community, as it makes communication and provision of services easier. For instance, addressing concerns to the city government is made easier by communicating through the World Wide Web.

The other side of free wireless access influences the business sector. As they used to believe that providing free wireless access would allow them to invite people in purchasing their products, it has only done otherwise.

To illustrate, coffee shops who provide free wireless access are packed with customers each day, however, it does not hold true that they really purchase products from them. Some people only go to these establishments for the relaxing environment and the free wireless access.

References

Cisco. (2007). City Government Improves Service and Stimulates Local Economy. Retrieved

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HotSpot Locations: The Wireless Directory. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from Hotspot-

Locations. Website: http://www.hotspot-locations.com/

JiWire. (2007). Retrieved December 6, 2007, from JiWire, Inc. Website:

http://www.jiwire.com/search-hotspot-locations.htm

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