D-Link, the networking vendor, plans to appoint new partners for its "hottest new commodity" - the hotspot.
Hotspots are, according to D-Link, wireless networks in public locations that enable mobile connectivity to the Internet. Primary target areas include airports, hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres and conference venues.
The Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) has recently requested comments on the provision of wireless Internet access using ISM frequencies. D-Link`s view, says SA branch manager Attie Pienaar, is that amendments to the Act are possible and would, if enacted, empower IT dealers to generate additional revenues.
Will o` the WISP
"Interested wireless Internet service providers [WISPs] are the ideal D-Link hotspot partners," says Pienaar. "The partner must [offer] an ISP service and be able to install and support our hotspot solutions. Where necessary, D-link will provide comprehensive training.
"Any PC dealer in SA can become a D-Link hotspot partner," he continues. "D-Link partners can help venue owners attract more customers, enable them to add value to their current service levels and ultimately increase revenue."
D-Link offers a variety of solutions aimed at the hotspot market. Pienaar says hotspots can be set up with minimal cost and effort. "Our WiFi equipment has already been type-approved by ICASA. All the venue owner needs is an ADSL, ISDN or dial-up modem, an Internet gateway (which includes a built-in firewall) and one or more access points, depending on the total area of the wireless network.
"A wireless network interface PC card or PDA card enables wireless connection for Windows-based handheld devices and notebook PCs. Dealers can also sell these cards to the venue owners, who can in turn provide them to clients whose devices do not have built-in wireless interfaces."
To generate a constant stream of revenue for the hotspot venue owner or the WISP or both, billing systems are available. These systems support a variety of options such as prepaid vouchers, credit card payments or normal monthly cellphone-type billing, where the user pays once a month for online minutes.
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