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As one explores the urban environment nowadays (and, actually, I would assume this is true in the suburbs and in small towns, too), one sees a lot of coffeehouses, independent bookstores, restaurants, and other establishments with a “Free WiFi“ sign in the window.

Every time I see one, the image that comes to mind is a 1950s-era motel sign offering “Free Color TV!” or “Free Air Conditioning!” What I mean, of course, is that technological advancements like this that are worth promoting at one point in history are typically standard operating procedure not too long afterwards.

For a venue to offer free WiFi to its customers costs them virtually nothing, since they probably have an Internet connection and a wireless router already. (All they need to do is choose to not set up password protection.)

And when they offer free WiFi to their customers, that means that any customer with an appropriate device (e.g., laptop or WiFi-enabled smartphone (a/k/a iPhone or iPod Touch)) can enjoy Internet radio to their heart’s content while visiting the establishment. It’s a nice win-win-win (for the consumer, the establishment, and the Internet radio industry).

Every “Free WiFi” sign you see? In my opinion, a canary in a coal mine.

Comment

1. But why is it that the BEST hotels still charge extra—sometimes ridiculous amounts—for internet service? At Hampton Inn, it’s free. But at the JW Marriott, it’s 15 or 20 bucks a night extra—even though my room cost 3 or 4 times as much at the JW.

   — Gayle Olson · Jun 22, 02:18 PM · #

2. Echoing Gayle Olson’s comments above, its the so-called “BEST” hotels that still charge for Wi-Fi. A few months ago, while attending a convention here in Michigan, it was another $9.95 a day for internet access; that on top of premium room rates. But its next to the convention center, so it’s one of those “gotcha” things…

   — Dan Kelley · Jun 26, 03:16 PM · #

3. It may be the worst decision ever to provide free WiFi through unprotected internet connections, as no evidence whatever will be left by its abusers. Remember online kiddy porn scandals? Terrorist attacks anonimously claimed by using open private WiFi networks?

   The better deal is to use a FON Hotspot instead and give away the login codes for free!

   — Sally Mens · Jun 29, 02:26 PM · #

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