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HotSpot Modul
The HotSpot module was developed for the specific needs of Internet cafes, hotels, and training classrooms. Use this module to allow your customers to use your wireless LAN at a charge or free by entering a password (controlled access), e.g. if customers would like to surf the Web using their own laptops.
Also read our .pdf document
“Why public places need a special W-Lan HotSpot solution.”
The benefits of this software at a glance:
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License once, and allow any number of customers to use HotSpot
You pay one license fee per installation location (e.g. hotel) no matter how many customers want to use your hot spot at the same time. Additionally, you will not be forced to share your revenue with others as is often the case with other existing hot spot solutions.
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Minor hardware investments
You can install the HotSpot module on the same computer that also runs SiteCafe Server. The only two other things you will need to run your own HotSpot is a WIFI access point and a second network card.
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Conveniently change settings
You can use SiteCafe Manager to adjust all important client settings, e.g. usage fees and news, from one central location.
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Installation
The SiteCafe software package (version 2.0 or greater) contains the installers for
SiteCafe Server,
SiteCafe Client, the
HotSpot module, and
Ticket Station. Start by installing SiteCafe Server on the designated computer/server. If possible, install the HotSpot module on the same computer.
Running HotSpot requires that the computer be fitted with two network cards. One network card for regular Internet access and a second network card for connecting the WIFI access point.
WLAN
access point
PC (server)
Internet
After installing all components, you can use SiteCafe Manager to conveniently manage different WIFI clients of your customers on top of all SiteKiosk and SiteCafe clients.
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Configuration
Use the HotSpot configuration tool to adjust the basic settings for every WIFI client.
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Fig.: HotSpot Configuration Tool
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Fig.: HotSpot Start Page
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The WIFI HotSpot's mode of operation
Connecting to the WIFI works in the same way with which you and your customers are already familiar. You switch your laptop on and search for available and unencrypted WIFI networks. Users connect to your WIFI network and open their Web browser. However, irrespective of the URL they entered, users will be shown a special welcome page and prompted to enter an access code.
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You as the operator can use the configuration tool to change the layout/design of this Start Page and, for instance, add your company logo.
This will remain the only page the user will be able to access until he or she authenticates by providing a prepaid PIN code / voucher.
Once logged in, the user is shown the regular Windows desktop. An information window keeps the user informed about his or her credit balance and also lets the user end his or her session (log out).
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Fig.: After logging on to the HotSpot, the user will be shown an information window
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Frequently asked questions:
Question:
The range of my WIFI access point is only 30 meters. What can I do to still offer HotSpot access everywhere in my hotel?
Answer:
To extend the range of your WIFI, you can use WIFI repeaters or range extenders. These devices can be obtained from the usual commercial sources.
Question:
I would like to offer my customers WIFI access free of charge. Would the use of the HotSpot module make any sense under these circumstances?
Answer:
Yes, because you can still issue prepaid codes including credit balances to your customers or guests even though you do not charge them for this service. By doing so, you are making sure that users in adjacent buildings cannot use your HotSpot without paying and, thereby, diminish your bandwidth. Your guests will certainly appreciate this service.
Question:
Will my customers be able to purchase prepaid PIN codes / vouchers without having to refer to my staff?
Answer:
Yes, simply install the Ticket Station module on the SiteCafe server. Users will then be able to buy pre-paid PIN codes all by themselves.
For more information, log on to our
Support Center.