Adelaide’s free city wifi network starts, with 200 wireless access points in use

THE free wireless internet access network covering public spaces in Adelaide’s CBD and North Adelaide is officially up and running.

THE free wireless internet access network covering public spaces in Adelaide’s CBD and North Adelaide is officially up and running.

Today’s launch in Adelaide at the Central Market has prompted claims the network is one of the largest CBD-wide outdoor wireless networks in Australia.

The $1.5 million project was a joint initiative between the State Government, the Adelaide City Council and Internode.

Internode chief business officer Greg Bader said the company had deployed nearly 200 outdoor wireless access points in the CBD, including ten mobile access points for use at special events.

“What we have built here is pretty exciting, it’s the largest public network in the country,” he said.

“We are getting 5000 people using this simultaneously and 30,000 people a day.”

Internode will add another 11 access points in coming months and has also renamed an old free wireless network, with another 100 access points, so it can be part of the new network.

The new network, AdelaideFree, provides coverage between North Terrace and Wakefield Streets/Grote Street and access in south city, North Adelaide and some parklands.

Science and Technology Minister Gail Gago said the network would benefit businesses and tourists.

“The introduction of free wifi is another significant step forward that will benefit visitors and locals alike,” she said.

Adelaide City Council Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood today’s official launch of the network marked a historic moment for the city.

““We are realising a dream in the city of Adelaide by having the best wifi network in the public realm of any city in the nation, indeed one of the best on the face of the planet,” he said.

Backpacker Natasha Lobo from India said she’s hasn’t had any problems using the network.

“It’s excellent actually. I am living at the YHA now but the moment I step out I have been using the Adelaide wifi,” she said.

“I have used it everywhere in the city, staying in contact with family and looking for jobs.”

Internode have been switching the network on as they build it and making AdelaideFree available in increments.