WiFi: a new network alternative: hop onto that laptop and enjoy Internet connection free of charge.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 01 October 2003
• Author: Mackie, Adam P.
• Published date: 01 October 2003
• Author: Mackie, Adam P.

Computer networking over wireless frequencies is blowing over Alaska airspace. WiFi, or wireless fidelity, is changing the way many communicate over the Internet. Whether it involves checking daily news reports, reading e-mails, receiving business memos or babysitting online stocks, WiFi Internet soon may become as commonplace as cellular phones.

"Wireless is extremely easy to use and very user-friendly in public networks," said Alan Caruth, GCI networks solutions engineer. "It will be the 'average Joe' networking choice."

People with a laptop and a wireless card plugged into the side can access free Internet, within a limited range. WiFi allows convenient Internet use to anyone with the proper equipment wanting to take advantage of this new technology. A wireless access point is set up in an area the same way as a radio antenna, opening up the airwaves to the public to use the Internet.

"The frequencies used in (wireless) technology are public frequencies. No one owns them and the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) doesn't assign them," said Dan Toomey, AT&T Alascom data network consultant.

One good example of how WiFi can be used was during last winter's Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. GCI is an official sponsor of the Iditarod and is a service provider that offers almost every basic wireless...