I was amazed when I saw this idea. It is all about "fonning."
I pay a fortune for wireless Internet services to two different vendors. This is a growing concept/business whose effectiveness depends on that growth.
The October 15, Business Week article on Fon says, " Less than two years since its launch, FON has quietly built the world's largest Wi-Fi network--without the slow, expensive process of having to string up hotspots in light poles and coffee shops. Instead, the company is trying to capitalize on the community-minded ethos of the Web. To become a FON member, people either purchaseone of the company's $40 routers or install its software in their existing cable modems. The technology turns every "FONero" household into a Wi-Fi broadcasting station."
The Fon phenomenon is escalating on the back of the proliferation of Wi-Fi Hotspots. Creating its own network, it sells no monthly service - only its equipment which, at less than $50 is a real head turner.
Fon has even entered the realm of affiliate marketing as evidenced by my own banner ad below.
You can check it out and make up your own mind. A map function on the site will help you locate hot spots near you where the network will work. My zip code came up empty - for now.
Wikipedia simplifies the explanation by saying that "FON’s members or “Foneros” are consumers who
agree to share their WiFi in return for free access to all other WiFi
access points in the community."
The Internet continues to provide fertile ground for the tug-of-war between the free exchange of ideas and commerce. Perhaps both will ultimate win in the balance.
