How to Become a Wireless ISP

Wireless hotspots can earn profit or allow users to connect for free.

Operating a wireless ISP earns you a profit when the public logs on to the network and agrees to pay an hourly rate. If you own a restaurant or cafe, you can offer wireless Internet to your customers at an additional cost. Creating a free wireless hotspot involves the same steps as setting up a fee-based hotspot. Separate connections for the public and your internal personnel keep sensitive records secure, and password protection keeps unauthorized users out of the network. Wireless ISPs can cover outdoor areas as well as building lobbies, waiting areas, shopping centers and restaurant dining rooms.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless router
• Pen

Instructions

1. Read the Terms of Service of your broadband Internet provider to make sure opening your network to the public doesn't violate your agreement. Contact a representative and discuss the coverage area and number of people you expect to use your hotspot.

2. Sign up for an account with a wireless hotspot manager such as HotSpotSystem, WorldSpot or UseMyNet. An account for a not-for-profit hotspot is free, and a for-profit hotspot account will cost a percentage of your revenue.

3. Download the DD-WRT firmware update for your router. Enter your router's manufacturer in the search field on the DD-WRT website. Click the name of your router on the list to download the firmware.

4. Turn off your modem and unplug it from the outlet. Disconnect the Ethernet cable from your computer and plug it into the "Internet" port on your wireless router. Connect your computer to the "LAN" port on your router with the Ethernet cable supplied with your router. Plug in your modem and turn on your router and modem.

5. Type "http://192.168.1.1" in the URL bar of your Internet browser. Type "admin" for both the login name and password. Click "Administration" and "Firmware upgrade."

6. Click "Browse" to open a folder on your hard drive, and locate a mini version of the DD-WRT firmware in your "Downloads" folder. Double-click the file to open it. Wait several minutes for the firmware to upgrade, and do not disconnect the power or leave the browser page during this process.

7. Press the "reset" button on the back of your wireless router with a pen, and hold the button down for at least five seconds. Wait about 30 seconds for the router to reset, and type "http://192.168.1.1" again in the URL bar of your browser to go to the DD-WRT control panel.

8. Click "Browse" again to search for the firmware upgrade in your "Downloads" folder. Double-click the firmware now to upgrade to the full version. Don't interrupt the upgrade by leaving the browser page or disconnecting the router.

9. Click "Services" and "Hotspot" on the DD-WRT control panel to enter the hotspot settings tab. Click "Enable" next to "Hotspot System." Enter your username, and type "1" next to the "Location ID." Leave all other settings the way they are.

Tips & Warnings

• Increase the range of your router with a wireless antenna. Connect the antenna with the shortest possible cable to minimize the loss of signal.

References

• CNET Reviews: How to Be an ISP: Build Your Own Hot Spot

Resources

• DD-WRT: Router Database
• HotSpotSystem.com
• WorldSpot.net
• UseMyNet