FAQ
From Pretoria Wireless Project
[edit]
What is PWP?
PWP is a community built and operated wireless data-network.[edit]
How can PWP benefit me?
Well once your connected you can do any IP based traffic for free over the PWP network (VPN, Gaming, VOIP, File Sharing, ect). In our country with such high telecoms prices, what better than to be able to play games against other PWP’ers, connect offices or schools via PWP and even do VOIP and video conferencing all for free.[edit]
Does PWP provide Internet access?
No PWP will never provide Internet access. Sharing a Internet connection with someone is up to you.[edit]
For free?
Yes PWP is a community network, everyone who wishes pitches in for the equipment for expending highsites and so forth but joining the network does not have any montly charges.[edit]
Sounds good, how do I join?
First of all you need to be in a area where PWP has coverage. Currently we have coverage in Pretoria and Centurion. Please Register on http://wind.pwp.za.net and add yourself. On WIND you will be able to see if you have LOS to any of the PWP highsites. Also come join us on the PWP IRC server irc.pwp.za.net port 6667[edit]
What is LOS?
Line of sight - an unobstructed path between the location of the signal transmitter and the location of the signal receiver. Obstacles that can cause an obstruction in the line of sight include trees, buildings, mountains, hills and other natural or manmade structures or objects.[edit]
What is a highsite?
A highsite is a big towers with antenna’s which you will be connecting to. See it as the Switch or Router in a network[edit]
How does it all work?
First of all you buy either a WIFI network card with a connector to add an external antenna or a WIFI router. The antenna needed will depend on your location and distance from the nearest highsite. You will be given a specified IP range which you will be using on the PWP network. See PWP as a normal local area network, just with no wires, well almost.[edit]
How much does a normal setup cost?
Linksys WRT54GL and a [24DBI grid antenna] and cabling and a few other bits and pieces would cost around R1400. Taking in consideration you might need to put up a mast on your roof to put up the antenna. The equipment you buy belongs to you, not to PWP. Before buying any equipment come chat to us at a meeting or on IRC and we will gladly give advice.[edit]
Will I be able to connect to PWP with my Laptops built in WIFI card?
Well yes if your real close to a highsite.[edit]
What distance can WIFI equipment do?
With the right equipment and conditions up to 20KM.[edit]
What speeds can I expect from the PWP network?
That all depends on your signal your picking up.[edit]
Is there any security on the PWP network?
No this is a open network, you will need to secure yourself with either a firewall of encryption like VPN technology if you feel it’s necessary.[edit]
I am already connected to the Internet with ADSL, will being connected to PWP affect this?
PWP will be a separate network which you will be connecting to and would not affect your ADSL connection.[edit]
