A WiFi hotspot: What is it?
An place with WiFi connection to the Internet is referred to as a WiFi hotspot. Both the location where the signal is present and the apparatus (WiFi Router or WiFi Access Point) that is broadcasting the signal are now referred to as hotspots. The words "WiFi Router" and "WiFi Access Point" (AP) are also frequently used synonymously. For more details 192.168.100.l
The Open or Unencrypted Router: Simple Hotspot
Buying a domestic WiFi router, connecting it to the internet, and changing the wireless security settings to "Disabled" or "Open" are the simplest ways to operate a hotspot. Anyone could then access the Internet and perhaps even other computers linked to the router thanks to this. Who connects and how much bandwidth is used would be mostly outside of your control. This is an easy route to go if you don't care about your security and don't want to make any money. Cost ~$50-100
Simple Hotspot - The WPA or WEP Encrypted Router
There are two types of WiFi security: WEP and WPA, with WPA being the more recent and secure option. Another choice is to enable security on the router. You must give a "key," or connection code, for both types. Customers could connect if you revealed the WPA or WEP key to them. This provides some protection, and I suppose you could change the WPA or WEP key every day, but it's not the best method for making money because there is nothing to stop someone from telling their friend the key.
A portal for captives.
The majority of commercial hotspots use captive portals, which first present as open or unencrypted WiFi signals before diverting all traffic to a page known as a "Splash Page," where you are frequently prompted to check in or make a payment for internet access. This is a clever way to handle things because the majority of laptops will connect to an open WiFi signal automatically. As soon as a customer launches Internet Explorer (or whichever Web browser they prefer), they are directed to your splash page regardless of the website they attempt to connect to.
Garden in a wall.
The expression "Walled Garden" is frequently used while talking about captive portals. This is a website or websites that users can access for free. A consumer who connects to your hotspot, for instance, will be directed to the splash page. They will then have the option of paying for internet connection or visiting one of your free websites, such as the one for your hotel or one for nearby attractions.
Services for hosted hotspots.
There are numerous businesses that provide hosted hotspot services to business owners. For these services, a customised Linksys WRT54GL router is typically installed on the client's premises, which directs traffic to a splash page maintained by the hotspot provider. In most cases, the hosting business also handles payment for Internet access. Typically, these services operate on a revenue-sharing model, in which the hosting business pays the hotspot owner a share of the hotspot's revenue. Some businesses impose a monthly fee on the hotspot owner in order to use their services.
Self-made captive portals
A DIY Captive Portal is an option if you don't want to employ a hosted hotspot solution. Some commercial software applications that operate on Windows or Linux PCs serve as captive portals require the PC to be on continuously. Another strategy is to run the Hotspot application directly on the WiFi router, swapping out the original firmware for a Linux-based operating system like OpenWRT or DD-WRT. The difficulty here is fitting the necessary software on the limited memory of a home router.
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