WiFi Everywhere

Interesting proposal for a way to get WiFi even more places from Cringely via Slashdot.

He basically proposes to give people free wireless routers and cards which can then be programmed to let others on for a fee. This would allow wireless access to spread widely without a lot of investment or negotiation.

A good idea but I see a couple problems with this:

1. Broadband providers probably won’t be thrilled with customers sharing their bandwidth
2. These would most likely increase WiFi coverage in residential areas, but customers probably want it more in commercial areas, near their offices and hotels

The first issue is fairly easy to solve. Cringely mentions Speakeasy as an ISP which does allow bandwidth sharing. He thinks others will follow, but I suggest going right to the ISPs. They could provide wireless routers for free to customers provided they help build the WiFi network. However, I believe some ISPs rely on the fact that most people don’t use their connection most of the time, which is why they are weary of others using it as well.

The second issue is a little hard to resolve. You could give free equipment to business as well or course, but the equipment is more complex and expensive. Business also probably use more of the bandwidth they pay for at least during working hours. It might work with small offices, but not with even medium sized ones, not to mention stores and hotels.

Not a bad idea though. I do hope we get a comprehensive wireless network soon, and I predict we will.