How to Benefit From Municipal Wi-Fi

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(4 Ratings)

Municipal Wi-Fi has been getting a bad reputation from many, but really the benefits for all are there. Municipal Wi-Fi provides low-cost internet access for many people. It also allows first responders to be more efficient, thus saving lives in the process. Use these steps to learn a little more about Municipal Wi-Fi and how you can benefit from using it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Understand exactly what municipal Wi-Fi is and find out if your city has it. You can call your local city department for information. Also, speak with your internet service provider to see if your laptop, cell phone or other internet access device is compatible.
Step 2

Find your local hotspots. Wi-Fi is generated off of hotspots and the more centered into the hotspot you are, the better the connection. See if your city department or internet access providers can give you information about your city's hotspots.
Step 3

Know the cost. There may be an additional cost involved above your monthly internet access cost, if you use Wi-Fi. Check with your provider to find out about this possibility.
Step 4

Learn how you can subscribe to the Municipal Wi-Fi network in your city by contacting your city department or a local internet service provider for more information.

Tips & Warnings

Other great benefits to municipal Wi-Fi: it can offer high speed at dial-up prices (from roughly $15 a month and up); can help lower the crime rate by allowing for the installation of a city-wide surveillance system (like in New Orleans); and can be valuable to public safety officials (it gave San Mateo, CA officers 8,000 hours/year more on patrol and less doing paperwork).
Understand where the money is coming from. Some cities are raising taxes to put in municipal Wi-Fi, but some are getting grants and raising capital.

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