What is Wireless Philadelphia?

Wireless Philadelphia is the non-profit organization that — along with its partner EarthLink — is helping Philadelphia to become the nation's first completely wireless major city.

Why was Wireless Philadelphia created?

Wireless Philadelphia was created to help bring affordable high-speed Internet access to each of Philadelphia's neighborhoods. Wireless Philadelphia's principle focus is to make these services easily available to low-income households through Digital Inclusion.

What is Digital Inclusion?

Digital Inclusion is the initiative that helps people who are not online gain access with affordable hardware, software, tech support and information, and broadband Internet service, so they can begin to use this technology to improve their lives. Click here to learn more about Digital Inclusion.

Who will Wireless Philadelphia help?

Wireless Philadelphia will help all citizens, businesses, schools, and community organizations get connected by making internet access more available and affordable. This will, in turn, help strengthen the city's economy, enhance the visitor experience, and streamline city services.

What are the advantages of wireless over DSL and Cable?

For many families and businesses, DSL and Cable Internet access are prohibitively expensive, in terms of both the monthly fee and the fixed cost associated with “wiring” a building. DSL and Cable providers also insist on “bundling” their services with others, such as television or telephone service. Additionally, these providers do not offer outdoor service, an increasingly sought-after feature. Finally, both DSL and cable Internet speeds are largely dependent on the provider, the distance from a central office, or how many subscribers are online in a given area.

Where is free access available?

Free access will be available in certain public spaces, such as parks and other recreational areas. These will include Love Park, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Belmont Parkway, the Historic Square Mile, Penn's Landing, Cobbs Creek Environmental Center, Hunting Park, Wissahickon Environmental Center, Pennypack Environmental Center, Mouth of the Pennypack, Bartram's Garden, FDR Park and Penn Treaty Park. In addition, a public space in each district has been selected to receive free access.

How much will the service cost?

Wireless Internet access through EarthLink and Wireless Philadelphia will be offered for a retail rate of $21.95/month (discounted start-up packages may apply) and a Digital Inclusion rate of $9.95/month for those who qualify.

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