What is Wireless Internet Access?

What is Wireless Access? What are Hotspots?

Wireless access provides the ability to connect to the Internet without the need for a telephone line, cable wire or other hard connection. Hotspots are areas that allow people with wireless devices like laptops and PDAs to connect to the Internet.

How would I benefit from Wireless Hotspots?

Wireless Hotspots allow you to access email, websites and corporate networks from anywhere, rather than having to be “plugged in” at a specific location. It’s very convenient, especially when traveling either on business or personally, or when you’re around town and simply need to get online quickly.

Where are Hotspots usually located? Why?

Hotspots tend to be located in public areas or work places. Airports, college campuses, office parks, restaurants and shopping malls are some likely places where wireless access would be available.

How does the technology behind Wireless Hotspots work?

A wireless card in your laptop or PDA finds the closest Wireless Hotspot. When you attempt to open your browser, a screen will appear from the wireless network provider in that specific area. You’re then prompted to log in for access with that wireless provider. Please note that some wireless providers offer access but at a substantial hourly, monthly or per connect fee.

Will Cape.Com have a Wireless Hotspot offering?

Yes! Starting Summer 2004, Cape.Com plans to offer FREE, high-speed, public Wireless Internet Access in Mashpee Commons and Main Street, Hyannis. As of Memorial Day, the Mashpee Commons wireless network will be up and running, and Main St., Hyannis is projected to be operational in July. A wireless downtown Provincetown is also in the works. In these specific locations, Cape.Com users will have free, unlimited access while guest users will be entitled to a free 1-hour trial per login. In addition, Cape.Com users will be given preference upon login. Please make sure you have a wireless card which is 802.11b compliant. You can purchase these cards at your local technology dealer.

Look for the Cape.Com Wireless Hotspot symbol in these areas and on your log-in screen to verify you are connecting to the Cape.Com Wireless network.

Would you like wireless access at your location?

If you are an organization or local merchant who wishes to have your space equipped with wireless access, for the benefit of your customers and employees, please contact Cape.Com for details at 508-539-9500 or wireless@cape.com.

Please note: Wireless technology is inherently not secure, and appropriate security measures should be adopted and certain online transactions avoided to ensure privacy. In addition, wireless technology is a shared resource, therefore, speeds will be directly affected by the number of simultaneous users.