There are two types of Wifi hotspots as follows: Free Wi-Fi hotspots
Free hotspots operate in two ways:
- Using an open public network is the easiest way to create a free HotSpot. All that is needed is a Wi-Fi router. However, the disadvantage is that access to the router cannot be controlled.
- Closed public networks use a HotSpot Management System to control the HotSpot. This software runs on the router itself or uses an external computer for it. With the help of this software, operators can authorize only specific users to be able to access the Internet, and they often associate the free access to a menu or to a purchase limit.
Commercial hotspots
A commercial hotspot may feature:
- A captive portal that users are redirected to for authentication and payment
- A payment option using credit card, PayPal, BOZII, iPass, or other payment service
- A walled garden feature that allows free access to certain sites
Many services provide payment services to hotspot providers, for a monthly fee or commission from the end-user income. ZoneCD is a Linux distribution that provides payment services for hotspots who wish to deploy their own service.
Major airports and business hotels are more likely to charge for service. Most hotels provide free service to guests; and increasingly small airports and airline lounges offer free service.
FON is a European company that allows users to share their wireless broadband and sells excess bandwidth to outside users (Aliens). Since this may breach users terms of service, FON has agreements with many broadband providers / ISPs.
One of the companies is TravelNetCon - an international high-speed Internet HotSpot mediator. Boingo is another major provider of hotspots.
Updated from wikipedia.org
