Today, Google launched a WiFi network in our hometown of Mountain View. Radios hanging on lampposts throughout the city are now broadcasting a “GoogleWiFi” wireless (802.11b/g) signal that brings wireless Internet access to the city’s residents, businesses, and visitors. All anyone needs is a laptop or other wireless-enabled device and a web browser to get online. Then Mountain View users can select the “GoogleWiFi” signal, open their web browser and sign in with a free Google Account. To learn more about the network’s coverage area and the location of the WiFi radios, we’ve published a map.
Google WiFi finally went live and now is letting the city reap the benefits of it’s free wireless Internet service. I really wish I lived in Mountain View right now, I would cancel my Internet service and just use their wireless. I hope I’ll get a chance to use it while I’m up in Mountain View over Christmas time. Google really wants to be an example with this wireless network, an example to other organizations that are even just considering the city-wide investment. With this promotion of free wireless network access, they are hoping it will create competition within the networks and low prices for the consumers.
