How does the Wi-Fi HotSpot Network work?
Wi-Fi operates by using signals much like those used by many cordless phones today. However, Wi-Fi enabled devices are designed to transmit data at very high speeds.

Wi-Fi receives a signal from Wi-Fi enabled devices and connects wirelessly to high-speed phone lines using base stations called, access points. Using wireless signals, Wi-Fi connects to these access points, which connect to high-speed phone lines. The high-speed lines connect back into our data network and the Internet.

Does Wi-Fi give me access to the Internet?
Yes. If you are a Online customer, you can use Wi-Fi to access the Internet at any of our HotSpot locations. Wi-Fi is an added service provided to Online DSL and dial-up customers, at no additional charge. The Wi-Fi service is not available from hotspots outside the HotSpot network.

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How fast is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a high-speed Internet connection that allows you to take advantage of the benefits of broadband without the restriction of wires.

The speed of the connection you receive on your Wi-Fi device will vary and is affected by several factors including: the number of active users at a hotspot, the distance your device is from the access point, any obstructions that are blocking your signal, the model of Wi-Fi card and software you are using on your device, and the speed of the wired line that connects to the access point. Generally, Wi-Fi signals transmit reasonably well through glass and many wall types, but they do not transmit well through metal, concrete or buildings.

Is a Wi-Fi connection secure?
Whenever you communicate over the Internet using a wired or wireless connection, there is a risk that hackers may try to intercept your e-mails, files, and data, or use your Internet connection to distribute their own messages and communications. If security is important to you, recommends that you only use Wi-Fi when you are doing basic Internet surfing and avoid sending confidential or sensitive information.

If you are using Wi-Fi for business, we recommend that you connect to your office network through a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPN software provides an encrypted tunnel through the Internet to and from the destination server or database. Most VPN services are provided by employers to improve the security of corporate communications.

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What is a HotSpot?
The term HotSpot is becoming popular to refer to a Wi-Fi access point location that is available in a public location (away from your home or office). Currently, hotspots have a limited range of service, usually up to 300 feet with no obstructions.

Where can I access the Wi-Fi HotSpot Network?
Wi-Fi is available at multiple locations in the New York area. The majority of our locations, also known as HotSpots, are currently in Albany and Greenville, NY. The Wi-Fi service is not available from other hotspots outside the HotSpot network. Generally, each Wi-Fi HotSpot covers a 600-foot diameter area around the access point, but service range can be limited by certain factors, such as, obstructions and network congestion. Check out a map of our locations.

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Is Wi-Fi the SSID name for the HotSpot network?
Yes. You can always check for a Wi-Fi HotSpot network signal by scanning for the Wi-Fi SSID name when you are away from your home or office in New York. Once properly configured, the Wi-Fi HotSpot network signal strength will be displayed in your Wi-Fi card utility software or operating system.

Older versions of Wi-Fi software may require you to insert the Wi-Fi SSID to acquire the hotspot signal. If your device requires you to set your SSID, procedures for setting the SSID to Wi-Fi will vary depending on the model and brand of your Wi-Fi wireless card or operating system.

An SSID is also referred to as a Network Name because it is a name that identifies a Wi-Fi wireless network.

Is there a charge to use Wi-Fi HotSpots?
Wi-Fi is currently offered at no additional charge to Online customers. If you are a Online DSL or dial-up customer, you can access Wi-Fi with your Online User Name and Password.

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Is Wi-Fi available to Telephone or Wireless customers?
Wi-Fi is currently only available to Online DSL and dial-up Internet customers. Online customers use as their Internet Service Provider for their home or for their business.

If you are not a business owner or manage data services at your business, you should check with your company regarding your Internet Service Provider (ISP) instead of calling Online directly.

If I am a Online dial-up customer, can I use the Wi-Fi HotSpot Network?
Yes. Currently, Online dial-up customers have access to all Wi-Fi HotSpots at no additional charge. In the near future, this benefit may only be available free of charge to residential DSL customers and Internet service business customers.

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