Richmond Free WiFi Blog

As of the date of this post, Clearwire is Richmond’s latest broadband provider utilizing wireless technology operating in the licensed 2.5GHz band. More info about Clearwire’s launch may be seen via Richmond.com - “Unplugging the Competition”

That being said, a Richmond Free Wireless user may actually donate the use of his or her Clearwire subscription service to actually help expand the RFW network. RFW is no way competing with Clearwire or vice versa. In fact, the two networks may complement each other! Clearwire’s image below, via this page on their website, depicts how one might share his or her connection via wireless (where, in RFW’s case, via a wireless node):

In addition, there is virtually no interference between the two networks since both operate under differing spectrum frequencies.

So, that being said, help us expand the RFW network with your Clearwire subscription!

We’ve seen other successful initiatives’ participants/supporters inquire about how they may share their Internet connections for the free access network. Many broadband companies, particularly those currently serving Richmond including Verizon and Comcast, typically do not allow sharing on residential connections. Business class connections may legally be shared, however, these connections tend to be quite expensive and simply not cost-effective for the scope of the freenet initiative.

That being said, we’ve been suggesting if anyone is interested in hosting a repeater, you might want to check with your broadband service provider and find out if you’re able to share your connection. Fortunately, as Richmond Free Wireless does not charge for service, they may allow you to do that. If they don’t, we’ve been recommending SpeakEasy who does legally allow you to share your connection with others.  We’re actually working on lining up a partnership with SpeakEasy via our parent organization, the Virginia WiFi Company.

So, the bottom line is, check with your current provider to find out if they will let you share your network.  If not, check our either SpeakEasy or Covad, both of whom will allow you to share.  Then, let us know when you’re ready to help us out!