WLAN Communities and Internet Access Sharing: A Regulatory Overview

The widespread adoption of wireless LAN has paved the way for the emergence of a compelling alternative to cellular networks for obtaining Internet access on the move. This has generated interesting opportunities to a variety of players to position in the mobile industry as Wireless Internet Service Provider. Mobile network operators have insofar managed to take control of this sector through aggressive preemptive strategies. However, the rapid emergence of private WLAN networks and broadband Internet connections among households has raised the crucial issue of the sharing of Internet access through these networks. While most owners are unaware of this, some have consciously organized themselves to form free wireless communities aiming at providing free Internet access to members or even to the public. One fundamental concern about this conduct is whether these sharing practices are allowed from a regulatory point of view, determine the rights and obligations of the various parties in...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2005
• Where: ICMB
• Authors: Giovanni Camponovo, Davide Cerutti
• Keywords: Broadband Internet Connections, ICMB 2005, Internet Access, Wireless Internet Service Provider