PersonalTelco.net Volunteer group creating public wireless Internet access

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Personal Telco Project

Personal Telco Project is a group of WiFi enthusiasts dedicated to turning the entire Portland, Oregon metropolitan area into one big wireless network.

The all-volunteer group started with a couple of folks making their wireless Internet access networks available to anyone who happened to be within reach of their equipment. These early volunteers then approached owners of their favorite coffee shops and brewpubs with offers to help install wireless access points. Technical savvy met entrepreneurial spirit, and people began to look for Personal Telco in their favorite haunts.

As of September 2009, the group has installed more than 130 active "nodes," or Internet access points, that are open to anyone who chooses to use them. These nodes can be viewed on the group's node map.

Personal Telco Project seeks to promote and build public wireless networks through community support and education. The volunteers help install and maintain nodes, and help users connect to the community wireless network. The group holds monthly and weekly meetings and other social and educational gatherings.

Wi-Fi for the people

"Personal Telco's login screen is simpler to use than most commercial Wi-Fi," says Ward Cunningham, chief technology officer at Portland startup AboutUs Inc. "Your logon sticks longer, and it's free."

Most of the nodes are installed in coffee shops and other retail locations where the business owners are happy to have people stick around for a while.

Users tend to be people who love to sit and work in a cozy public space, where they can refresh with strong coffee and a scone from time to time.