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Select a topic to jump down to the appropriate section:
Our Technology
- What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is short for wireless fidelity. This is another name for IEEE 802.11b or IEEE 802.11g, a trade term promulgated by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA). "Wi-Fi" is used in place of 802.11b or 802.11g in the same way that "Ethernet" is used in place of IEEE 802.3. Products certified as Wi-Fi by WECA are interoperable with each other even if they are from different manufacturers. A user with a Wi-Fi product can use any brand of access point with any other brand of client hardware that is built to the Wi-Fi standard.
- In simple terms, how does it work?
Our wireless broadband solutions are supported by the Wi-Fi networks EarthLink's Municipal Networks business unit has deployed. The EarthLink's Municipal Networks team works with our partners to put Wi-Fi nodes on light poles throughout a city tied together into a "mesh network." This creates a wireless broadband access network for residents, visitors, and city employees. From these Wi-Fi nodes, wireless signals are beamed between poles (for seamless connectivity for users). Certain poles transmit data back to access towers that 'haul' the Internet traffic back ("backhaul") to EarthLink's established landline network for transmission over the public Internet.
These Wi-Fi nodes and access towers provide Internet access for the various Wi-Fi solutions and services offered through by EarthLink Municipal Networks. These solutions include mobile Wi-Fi as well as fixed wireless broadband access to government offices and businesses.
- Will inclement weather influence Internet service?
The technologies we use are not significantly affected by changing weather conditions when deployed as proposed. Wireless coverage and high-speed backhaul links will be engineered to perform as specified during worst-case weather conditions for the local area.
- What purpose do municipal broadband networks serve?
Municipal broadband networks serve the digital infrastructure needs of cities and communities who are committed to delivering public wireless Internet access to their residents, businesses, and municipal workers. These networks offer a wireless "third pipe" for commercial Internet access and also provide municipal employees with mobile access anywhere in the city-improving field productivity and allowing them to operate more effectively out of the office.
Municipal broadband networks are a competitive alternative to other high-speed Internet services and can help bridge the digital divide for a wide range of users, especially those without previous access to the Internet.
- Why is EarthLink involved in municipal broadband programs?
As one of the nation's leading next-generation Internet service providers, EarthLink has a reputation for embracing new technologies. We were the first national ISP to offer DSL and VoIP, and we see this effort as an opportunity to develop innovative new choices for consumers and to deliver award-winning EarthLink services to potential broadband customers.
- What is the advantage of working with EarthLink Municipal Networks?
EarthLink's Municipal Networks team is uniquely qualified to build municipal broadband networks. EarthLink has over 12 years of experience providing award-winning Internet service to consumers and businesses across the U.S., EarthLink has been actively involved in the evaluation and testing of next-generation broadband technologies, and has a deep understanding of the technologies and architectures that will be required to create viable municipal broadband networks. In addition, EarthLink Municipal Networks is committed to Open Access, which means that EarthLink Municipal Networks will allow many ISPs to utilize the network to provide broadband to consumers and businesses. EarthLink has unparalleled experience in operating these types of multiple ISP platforms.
- What is EarthLink Municipal Networks criteria for considering cities?
EarthLink is interested in working with cities with access to the appropriate assets required for mounting of network equipment and that have a firm commitment to the cause of municipal broadband in their communities. For more information on working with EarthLink, please call (626) 351-7325 or send email to .
- What about rural communities or smaller cities?
EarthLink is open to opportunities where technology can address the needs of communities in a way that is economically viable. The ability to address the needs of communities is sometimes limited by the density of the households and businesses in the geographical area. However, EarthLink is developing plans to address these less dense markets with alternative technologies, network architectures, and business models. For more information contact networkalliance@corp.earthlink.net.
- What is EarthLink doing to help bridge the digital divide?
EarthLink is open to working directly with cities to help define a program that fits their community's unique needs and priorities. Through the EarthLink Digital Future ProgramSM, EarthLink is contributing to digital inclusion efforts and will work with our partners to create the best solution for each city.
Wholesale Solutions
- How does the Feather network work?
The Feather network uses the best Wi-Fi technology available to form a robust, efficient Wi-Fi mesh network. The Feather network is powered by EarthLink Municipal Networks' advanced network architecture along with industry-leading technological solutions from world-class partners. This includes one of the most powerful Wi-Fi routers in the market today, and a scalable, highly reliable wireless broadband platform for backhaul from the Wi-Fi routers to the Internet.
- How do fixed wireless solutions work?
The Feather fixed wireless solutions utilize a license-free 5.x GHz fixed-location radio module mounted on the roof or the side of your building. The radio module is pointed at Feather's wireless backhaul network, which then connects to the Internet.
- Is simultaneous usage allowed?
Feather networks tracks simultaneous usage and charges an hourly rate (with a monthly cap) for each simultaneous connection. The usage amount is calculated at the end of each month and applied to your OpenAcess Solutions invoice. You may pass these charges on to your customers if you choose.
- Is roaming allowed with these OpenAccess Solutions?
Currently, accounts work only in the city where they are purchased.
- What types of Wi-Fi cards and computers can connect to the Feather network?
You can use any computer, card, or handheld device that supports 802.11b or 802.11g. If you wish to encrypt your Wi-Fi connection (highly recommended!), Feather network supports WPA2-AES encryption to protect the information your computer sends on the wireless network.
- How secure is the Feather network?
Although not required, the Feather network supports WPA2 Enterprise 802.1x EAP-TTLS authentication protocol and AES for encryption to make sure that information sent over the wireless network is as secure as possible. Feather Network offers a small, free program which will encrypt traffic using this protocol. The program can be downloaded at http://home.featherwifi.net/downloads/
We strongly recommend that our customers use our supported encryption methods, as well as taking additional measures such as virtual private networks (VPNs), and personal firewalls.
As with any high-speed wireless service, the Feather network is not inherently secure. Wireless communications can be intercepted by equipment and software designed for that purpose.
Notwithstanding our efforts to enhance security with respect to the service, we cannot guarantee the effectiveness of these efforts and will not be liable to any party for any lack of security that may result from your use of the service or your device. You are responsible for taking such precautions and providing the security measures best suited for your situation and intended use of Feather services.
- What type of equipment will my customers need?
Customers can connect with any wireless access point that supports 802.11b or 802.11g. However, all users are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the encryption protocols supported by Feather Networks, as well as personal firewalls and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) where appropriate.
- What type of equipment is needed for Fixed Solutions?
Feather Fixed Solutions use Motorola Canopy 5250SM or the 5750SM radio modules, depending on your service area. For more information, please contact us at .
- What is your coverage area?
Click here to see a map of the current Feather coverage areas.
- How do I get more information on the Feather OpenAccess Solutions?
Contact us at .
- How do I get more information on the Feather City Solutions?
Contact us at .
- How do I get more information on the Feather Enterprise Solutions?
Contact us at .
EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand
- How do I connect to the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
- Click here to see if EarthLink Wi-Fi is available in your city.
- Check your laptop's list of available networks. If the arthLink Wi-Fi network SSID (network ID) is on the list, switch to it.
- Open your Web browser. You'll automatically be sent to a page where you can sign up for an access pass, or connect to a free arthLink Wi-Fi hotspot (not available in all cities).
- Can I cancel or change my EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass before it expires?
You can purchase a new pass (of any type) once your current EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass expires.
- When does the clock start running on my EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass?
Your pass is active as soon as you finish registration.
- Is my pass suspended if I sign out before my time runs out?
No, the clock keeps running on your pass even if you sign out.
- Can I use my pass in any city with a EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
Your pass will work only in the city where it was purchased.
- Can I receive a refund for unused time?
Unused time is non-refundable.
- Can I change from an hourly/daily EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass to a monthly plan?
Sure! You can sign up for a monthly plan at any time. Click here to choose from a list of providers. Monthly subscriptions are billed separately and any unused time from your EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass will be lost if not used.
- Can I send and receive email using the EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand pass?
Of course. You can access any system that is available to the Internet in general, including email servers. Your POP email account should work normally while connected via the EarthLink Wi-Fi network. If your employer has a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can even access your corporate email (ask your company's IT department for information).
- How fast is EarthLink Wi-Fi service?
You can achieve speeds up to 3Mbps, depending on your signal strength and other network conditions. Keep in mind that the speed of your Web browsing usually depends on the connection and traffic of the sites you're visiting. If your Wi-Fi card supports 802.11g, you might get a faster connection.
- How secure is the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
Although you can connect without it, the EarthLink Wi-Fi network offers WPA2-AES encryption to make sure that information you send over the wireless network is as secure as it can be. If you're not sure how to use WPA2-AES encryption, we offer a small program to handle it for you.
As usual on the Internet, any information submitted through a secure website will be encrypted. This includes the EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand (our free access service) sign in pages and the pages where you purchase other Feather services. However, we encourage you to use WPA2-AES encryption when using the EarthLink Wi-Fi network, and to set up personal firewall software to keep your computer safe while using the Internet.
- What types of Wi-Fi cards and computers can connect to the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
You can use any computer or card that supports 802.11b or 802.11g. If you wish to encrypt your Wi-Fi connection (highly recommended!), EarthLink Wi-Fi networks supports WPA2-AES encryption to protect the information your computer sends on the wireless network.
- Where can I get a wireless Ethernet card?
Before you buy a wireless card, check to see if your laptop has one built-in. Look for "802.11b" and "802.11g" in your user guide or other documentation. If you need to buy a card, or an external USB Wi-Fi adapter, you can get one from most computer shops or a major electronics retailer.
- Do I have to install special software or change any settings in order to use the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
You should be able to connect without changing any settings. When your wireless card is plugged in, just look for the EarthLink Wi-Fi network ID (SSID) to become available, switch to it, and open your Web browser to sign in.
EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand — FREE- How do I connect to the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
- Click here to see if the EarthLink Wi-Fi network is available in your city.
- Check your laptop's list of available networks. If the EarthLink Wi-Fi network SSID (network ID) is on the list, switch to it.
- Open your Web browser. You'll automatically be sent to a page where you can sign up for an access pass, or connect to a EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand — FREE hotspot (not available in all cities).
- How long can I stay connected in a EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand — FREE hotspot?
Up to 3 hours. At the end of 3 hours you'll be disconnected, but you can immediately reconnect if you're not finished using the Internet. This policy helps preserve network resources for everybody by disconnecting computers that have been left idle.
- What types of Wi-Fi cards can be used to connect?
The EarthLink Wi-Fi network supports 802.11b and 802.11g Wi-Fi cards. If you wish to encrypt your Wi-Fi connection (highly recommended!), EarthLink Wi-Fi network supports WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) encryption to protect the information your computer sends on the wireless network.
- Do I need to have any kind of Internet account to use the EarthLink Wi-Fi hotspots?
No, but you do need to have an active email address in order to access the EarthLink Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Are email accounts provided?
No.
- Can I connect to the EarthLink Wi-Fi network outside of a EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand — FREE hotspot?
Sign up for one of our connection plans to connect from in the city.
- Can I send and receive email?
Of course. You can access any system that is available to the Internet in general, including email servers. Your POP email account should work normally while connected via the EarthLink Wi-Fi network. If your employer has a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can even access your corporate email (ask your company's IT department for information).
- How fast is EarthLink Wi-Fi on-Demand — FREE service?
You can achieve speeds up to 1Mbps, depending on your signal strength and other network conditions. Keep in mind that the speed of your Web browsing usually depends on the connection and traffic of the sites you're visiting. If your Wi-Fi card supports 802.11g, you might get a faster connection.
- How secure is the EarthLink Wi-Fi network?
Although you can connect without it, the EarthLink Wi-Fi network offers WPA2-AES encryption to make sure that information you send over the wireless network is as secure as it can be.
As usual on the Internet, any information submitted through a secure Web site will be encrypted. This includes the EarthLink Wi-Fi sign in pages and the pages where you purchase other EarthLink Wi-Fi products. However, we encourage you to use WPA2-AES encryption when using the EarthLink Wi-Fi network, and to set up personal firewall software to keep your computer safe while using the Internet.
- Do I have to install special software or change any settings in order to use the EarthLink Wi-Fi Network?
You should be able to connect without changing any settings. When your wireless card is plugged in, just look for the EarthLink Wi-Fi network ID (SSID) to become available, switch to it, and open your Web browser to sign in.
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