Hughes and Facebook launch Wi-Fi Hotspots in Colombia

Details: James Barton; Category: Wireless Networks; 05 September 2019; 6631 views

Hughes Network Systems has partnered with Facebook to launch Wi-Fi hotspots in Colombia, supported by the Facebook Express Wi-Fi software platform.

Service providers and telecommunications integrators in Colombia can use the hotspots to allow local merchants to offer affordable, high-speed Internet access to their customers on a prepaid basis anywhere in Colombia – even in the most remote and rural places. The system uses a compact Hughes satellite VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) and Facebook’s Express Wi-Fi software platform.

“Express Wi-Fi supports the Facebook Connectivity mission to bring more people online with faster Internet,” said Paul Monte, technical program manager, Express Wi-Fi, Facebook.

“This combined Hughes and Facebook Wi-Fi solution makes it possible for small businesses in Colombia to monetise their own hotspots virtually anywhere, especially in places unserved or underserved by affordable Internet access,” said Vinay Patel, senior director, International Division at Hughes.

Facebook’s Express Wi-Fi is a software platform that helps service providers build, operate, grow and monetise their Wi-Fi business in a sustainable and scalable way. Facebook partners with service providers and operators who expand the provision of fast, affordable and reliable access to the Internet over Wi-Fi supported by the Express Wi-Fi platform.