RSSPhilly Wi-Fi Network Goes Live
By Ed Oswald | Published January 11, 2007, 12:42 PM
After being selected to power Philadelphia's metropolitan Wi-Fi network some 15 months ago, EarthLink on Thursday made the first steps towards offering service by announcing it would allow for free access in the 15-square mile proof of concept area through January 21.
The area extends from the Schuylkill River to the west to the Delaware River to the east, and Center City and Old City to the south and Montgomery Avenue and the Kensington areas to the north. Speeds of up to 1 Mbps would be available.
Wireless-enabled laptops and desktops in the proof of concept area should be able to detect and connect to the wireless network "FeatherByEarthLink." Some customers could be eligible for a Wi-Fi modem, which would increase signal strength.
After the free period, "free access zones" would still exist in several areas, including Norris Square, Olney, Love Park and the Historic District. Those wishing to access the network outside of those areas will have to sign up for an account which runs $21.95 USD per month, the company said.
EarthLink is not the only option in town. Services would be available through People PC and Pennsylvania Online, as well through reseller agreements with the ISP.
"Our goal is clear: build a state-of-the-art wireless network across Philadelphia's 135 square miles," EarthLink's municipal networks head Donald Berryman said. "A key to doing this is gathering valuable feedback and insights from users of the network as construction continues."
Over budget, late and a complete joke. Good job on another great project John Street. Philadelphia's murder rate is at an all time historic high, yet he's concerned with wasting millions on wireless internet in Kensington.
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nice until January 21st, then it would suck to pay for wifi after that.
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It's odd that the University area is not covered, but why Love park and Olney. You do not want to walk around with even a cell phone in that area.
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It's some sort of social affirmative action
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You mean a laptop. You need a laptop to connect while you're outside. I'm shocked to see that they've installed them in these areas first. Well, not really. To a business standpoint, they want to offer free access to these areas because they think the people living in these areas are poor; especially around Kensington and Olney. If no one uses it or will be able to use it, it'll mean less bandwidth for the company to carry.
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People actually have to pay for this wireless internet access? What a ripoff! MetroFi offers free no strings attached 1 Mbps wireless internet service in Portland, Oregon among other areas.
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woo! i live in philly.
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