The availability of inexpensive WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) access points that are easy to install without extensive wiring has led to a situation in which they have spread rapidly and become very popular. A major factor in the success of this system has been the introduction of the IEEE 802.11 standard, which enabled WLAN equipment to be manufactured inexpensively. Indeed, the area in which this technology is used has expanded equally for broadband residential provision and wireless coverage for public spaces.
Most public networks are operated on a commercial basis, with sometimes regional competition from free hotspots. A good way of highlighting how the WLAN market participants interact with each other is to use an illustration of the value-creation chain.
Description of player's role
are responsible for setting up and operating the WLAN network.
are aggregating footprint from various WLAN network operators and inter-linking them with a number of service providers.
have direct contact to the users, operate customer services and end user billing.
can be private users, business travellers or company personnel.
Location owners:
WLAN network operators:
Roaming Brokers:
Service providers:
Users:
