How easy is it to set up a wi-fi hotspot?

Question

I would like to set up a hot-spot for Holiday properties. They are cottages spread over about a 300 yard area. It is in a remote location and I am also worried that I will get people parking nearby trying to connect as there are few other hotspots nearby (Which is why I want to set one up) Is it easy to restrict use to guests and owners?

Answer 1

You will need extra equipment like the others have said. I also think encrypting the signal and only giving the passcode to guests, changing the passcode weekly, is the best way.
One thing you will have to be very careful of is what your guests are accessing. Ultimately YOU are responsible for the content that your guests access. If they access illegal/immoral material then YOU have to give proof of who accessed what at any given time. You also have to be careful of guests infecting your network with malicious software (whether on purpose or by accident).
I would suggest configuring your router to forward all web traffic to a VERY strong proxy server. I would advise getting an IT consultant to help you at least with the initial setup to make sure that you are covered.
another idea is to get a bunch of inexpensive computers to use as kiosks in the properties. You have more control over those.

Answer 2

You probably won't get people parking.. but you can also use a Password that you give to your GUESTS. You can change that password regularly, so even if your guests share that password with others, it will only work for a week or so.

Your main router will have a simple security setup. Using a simple 64 bit WEP will do the trick, since that will require a 16 digit Hexadecimal number that you share.

300 yards is quite a distance, so you might have to extend your wireless network with repeaters and other devices. But watch out for brick structures, as the signal uses "line of sight".

I would look to the Linksys product line.
Visit NewEgg.com
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&Brand=1413&N=50001413

Good luck and Happy Computing!

Answer 3

I recently setup my wifi connections, use a 64bit WEP key 10 numbers is easier 2 remember, and only give it 2 the people in the cottages, or put it on a board in each of the cottages, then no1 else will know the access key........

Id advise using edimax equipment, easy 2 get, and install and reliable, but at 300yards u will need boosters or repeater boxs.

Answer 4

sure of course. The wifi protocol (that's what your card makes use of) is international. besides the undeniable fact that the wifi provider must be public. provided your kit is known and already works, then shifting someplace else should not be a issue. in case you are able to stumble on the sign - yet no longer connect - then the wifi provider isn't public.

Answer 5

You just need to encrypt the signal.