Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I join FON?
To become a Fonero, all you need to do is register with us on our webpage and become part of the FON WiFi Community. If you want to be an active Fonero within our Community, then you will need to have broadband access and a router that is compatible with FON Software.
May Foneros share their broadband?
This varies by country and Internet service provider. Prior to activating your access point, you should re-read the terms of use that you have with your broadband provider to ensure that it permits your to share your connection.
Linus? Bill? Alien? Which one of these profiles will best suit me?
In the future, you will be able to register with any of these three profiles, and your decision will depend on your own personal needs. But, for the present, let us remind you that FON is in an experimental Beta phase and is only available for Linus.
A Linus is any user who shares his/her WiFi in exchange for free access throughout the Community wherever there is coverage. A Bill is a user who, instead of roaming for free, prefers to receive 50% of the fees that FON charges to Aliens. And Aliens are those users who do not share their WiFi access and therefore must pay FON a modest fee every time they connect through a Fonero access point.
What advantages does FON offer to Internet service providers?
FON is presently in advanced conversations with Internet service providers (or “ISPs”) in various countries. Through strategic alliances with FON, the ISPs will be able to offer their customers wireless access to the FON Community around the world. Let us remind you that only users who have broadband access can activate a FON access point (which we like to call FON “Hotspots”). So if you still only have a dial-up connection, you will need to upgrade to cable or SDL in order to enjoy the FON Community everywhere.
Which operating systems are compatible with FON?
All of them: Linux, Mac, Windows … FON “lives” in the WiFi router, not in the computer.
Which router models are compatible with FON?
Currently, FON works on Linksys WRT54G/GS/GL versions 1x to 4x. We understand that FON Software is limited to these models, but let us assure you that we will soon be announcing more FON compatible routers.
How do Foneros share?
Once your router has been installed with the FON Software, it will detect the FON wireless signal. Select it and follow the instructions on the captive portal that will appear when you register your access point. The process is easy and you can follow the instructions step by step in the download section. Once you have done this, the entire Community will be able to locate your WiFi Hotspot on the map, and you’ll be able to connect freely throughout the FON Community.
How much bandwidth can a Fonero share?
As a Fonero, you will be able to set aside whatever amount of bandwidth you want, maintaining a reasonable capacity for your own use. This limit will not be affected at all by the number of Foneros who simultaneously connect to your Hotspot. Please note that in this beta version of the Software this limitation is not yet implemented, but it will be available soon.
How does the FON password system work?
All FON Hotspots have two password systems. The first one works only at the point of access and serves to administer the router. Remember that you must change your password in the installation process if you want to have absolute control over your router. The second system is based on an individual password that you have as a registered user and permits you to any connect FON Hotspot.
Where can I get a FON compatible router?
If you do not already have a WiFi router or the one you do have is not a Linksys WRT54G/GS/GL versions 1.x to 4.x, you can purchase a FON compatible router on our online shop that is ready to go. You can also purchase a compatible router from other online sources or stores.
Where is the best place to situate routers?
In the windows. It is always better to place the router in rooms with exposure to the outside and not towards an inner space. We also recommend rooms with windows as they give more extended coverage to the Community.
Where is there FON Coverage?
You will be able to enjoy FON coverage in any location with an active FON access point. You can find these through the FON maps. Whenever a FON user activates a new FON Hotspot, he/she identifies the approximate or exact location (depending on his/her preference) on the maps. This allows other users in the Community to locate these points right away. The maps will be global, but for now we only have the precise information available for the U.S. and Spain.
What happens in those places without coverage?
FON intends to place access points in strategic areas that offer no coverage. FON also has a special interest in providing WiFi coverage in economically disadvantaged areas.
If I install FON on my router, will I be able to uninstall it?
Yes. You can download the original firmware from the manufacturer’s website and get your router back to its original state.
Will I need a new router every time I want to update my FON Software?
Of course, not. At the most, you would simply need to download an updated version of the Software.
How secure is FON?
FON is not a community of anonymous users. Every active Fonero will have identified him/herself to FON through the registration process. Remember that connecting to a FON access point is only possible for registered users. This process facilitates security for the users of our WiFi Community.
Is the FON signal encrypted in the access points?
No, the FON signal is not encrypted in the access points. By definition encrypted access points are not open. FON is an open Community and therefore cannot be restricted through access encryption. Nevertheless, we still address security matters by developing on-demand encryption services.
How does FON respect user privacy and Project user data?
FON complies with the applicable data protection laws. We respect your privacy. We welcome your guidance and feedback to ensure that you are protected in our Privacy and Protection Policy.
Am I responsible if a user uses my connection for illicit activities?
No. As long as you have not actively participated in the commission of a crime or do not have knowledge that a particular individual is using your connection to commit a crime or illegal activity, it is our understanding that you are not responsible. Nevertheless, this may vary depending on the laws of each country. Furthermore, FON discourages any inappropriate use of your connection by making sure that each user of the FON Community has registered and is identifiable.
What is FON’s business model?
The FON revenue model is based on Aliens, the users who will pay for connectivity since they do not share bandwidth with the Community. For the time being, FON is neither available for Aliens or Bills. Eventually, a Bill will be able to share his/her connection in exchange for a percentage of the revenue generated from his/her Hotspot.
What is FON’s vision for the future?
FON everywhere! FON’s vision is to extend its WiFi Community across the globe. This means to gain as much international coverage as possible across millions of FON access points.
How is FON socially committed to the Community?
FON is committed to its Community and also to the communities that surround its Hotspots and those places that have little or no access to WiFi or even basic information technology. FON strives to build a world that unites people through their WiFi connections and tears down the geographic, economic, technical, and cultural barriers that often divide us. FON is studying ways to reinvest portions of revenue generated from Aliens to finance WiFi development in those areas that most suffer from the digital divide. As Foneros, we hope you will assist us in reaching these goals.
I like the idea. How can I contribute?
If you want to lead the FON Community where you live or if you would like to help in other aspects (development, design, etc.), we encourage you to send us an email or write in the Forums
Thanks for helping - FON-Community appreciates your work and insight.
