Hotspot Business
The demand for public Wi-Fi is growing, and starting a hotspot business can be a profitable venture. With the right equipment and software, you can offer secure and managed internet access to customers. This guide will walk you through setting up a hotspot business using FreeISP Radius, an open-source billing and authentication system.
Why Use FreeISP Radius?
FreeISP Radius is a free, open-source RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) server that allows you to manage user authentication, data limits, and billing. It integrates well with MikroTik routers, making it an ideal choice for a low-cost but professional hotspot setup.
Requirements for Setting Up a Hotspot Business
To set up your hotspot network, you will need:
- MikroTik Router – The core of your hotspot, handling user connections, authentication, and bandwidth management.
- Cat 6 Outdoor Cable – Ensures a stable and high-speed wired connection between network devices.
- Access Points or Extension Routers – Compatible devices such as Ubiquiti NanoStation M2 for wider Wi-Fi coverage.
- Internet Source – A reliable ISP connection with sufficient bandwidth.
- FreeISP Radius System – A free billing and authentication system for managing users and payments.
- Server or Cloud VPS (Optional) – If you want a cloud-hosted authentication system, you can set up FreeISP Radius on a VPS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Hotspot
1. Set Up Your MikroTik Router
- Connect your internet source (fiber, 4G modem, or ISP connection) to the WAN port of the MikroTik router.
- Access the router via WinBox and configure the hotspot feature in the IP > Hotspot section.
- Set up a DHCP server to assign IP addresses to users.
- Configure firewall rules and bandwidth limitations.
2. Connect and Deploy Access Points
- Use Cat 6 cables to connect additional routers or M2 access points to extend coverage.
- Configure them in bridge mode to ensure smooth handover between connections.
3. Integrate Payment and User Management
- Use FreeISP Radius to create prepaid vouchers or online payments via MPesa, PayPal, or other payment methods.
- Generate unique login credentials for each user to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Monitor and Optimize Your Network
- Regularly check usage reports in FreeISP Radius.
- Optimize bandwidth allocation for better user experience.
- Update security settings to prevent unauthorized access.
Conclusion
Setting up a hotspot business using FreeISP Radius and MikroTik is a cost-effective way to provide public Wi-Fi. By using the right hardware and software, you can manage users efficiently and monetize your network.
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