Philadelphia, one of the nation's largest and poorest cities, has completed testing of its largest-in-the-nation municipal wi-fi system. When fully operational, the system will offer wireless access to homeowners in the city for a small (sliding) fee, or at no charge from city parks, municipal buildings, and training facilities. The Philadelphia system, though not unique in concept, stands alone in scale for both the number of both individuals and square miles covered. While not without problems, municipal wi-fi systems such as Philadelphia's are seen as important for helping to bridge the Internet-access gap.
For more on Philadelphia's municipal system:
- read the analysis at eWeek
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EarthLink launches Philadelphia muni-WiFi. Report