US leads the way for free Wi-Fi access

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A US city is pioneering the use of free Wi-Fi access for its 29,000 citizens, providing the UK with a sterling example it should follow in this area.

Earlier this month, Foster City switched on a city-wide network with the aim of improving public services and reducing costs, in addition to breaking down the traditional access barrier of cost.

By supplementing access with local and national advertising, the Californian city can offer the service fee-free, while also offering citizens who don't want to be sold to the opportunity to enjoy advert-free browsing for a monthly subscription fee of around $20.

The infrastructure, which provides local people with 1Mbps wireless net access, has been built, free of charge, by MetroFi, which has already created a similar model for a number of other US cities.

The network specialist is committed to a service level agreement (SLA) of 95 per cent coverage, meaning that anyone with a wireless-enabled device can make use of the service.

"We are thrilled to see MetroFi deploy a wireless Internet network throughout the city, and are happy our residents and visitors will now have free access to the internet," said Foster City Mayor Linda Koelling.

"The city works hard to maintain a business and technological edge, and offering free Wi-Fi will be a critical component."

"We are very excited about the prospect of having Wi-Fi services available in Foster City," said Steve Toler, the city's administrative services director when it partnered with MetroFi in April this year.

"MetroFi's network will provide our residents and businesses with a fantastic opportunity for internet connectivity in public spaces. We look forward to working with MetroFi and seeing Wi-Fi services thrive in our community."

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