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Network World profiles the WCN

February 17th, 2006
Posted by Paul Smith

Sandra Gittlen writes in Network World:

In Chicago, an organization called Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT) is using wireless connections to provide Internet access to families in low-income neighborhoods. Through the project, called Wireless Community Network, CNT is creating a rooftop network of wireless repeater nodes for more than 800 households in four neighborhoods.

“The Wireless Community Network is a tool to get people better information, especially people who don’t have access to advanced telecommunications,” says Nicole Friedman, CNT project manager. “Our users can’t afford to pay for DSL or cable modem service, and some have never had contact with a computer.”

Using money from a patchwork quilt of public and private programs, the CNT has connected about 400 households since receiving its first project funding in late 2003. It gathers retired computers from corporations and individuals to distribute to residents who don’t have their own PCs.

The rooftop network, powered by Metrix Communications, comprises WLAN nodes with antennae [sic], routers and radios. Buildings hooking into the nodes put up a hodgepodge of wireless access points, and users can access the network via their WLAN cards.

Residents are using their Internet connectivity for advanced online coursework and grocery shopping, and to access medical benefit information. Other uses include filling out job applications online, finding job training and attending virtual English as a Second Language courses, Friedman says.

“Our goal is to help people stand on their own,” she says.

This entry was posted on Friday, February 17th, 2006 at 12:30 pm and is filed under General, In the news. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.

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