Wi-Fi key to nationwide broadband scheme

Wi-Fi networks offering community-wide broadband connections could be key to meeting the government's connectivity targets, according to Top 10 Broadband.

With the government expected to spend £750 million on improving internet connectivity and facilitating better use of technology such as VoIP solutions, community Wi-Fi networks are being viewed as one of the best ways to address access issues in urban areas.

Installing Wi-Fi in towns and cities offers a more cost-effective option than some of the alternative methods, while it also means that web services can be delivered without digging up roads and causing commuter delays.

Jessica McArdle, marketing manager at Top 10 Broadband, said: "It seems ludicrous that in an age of mobile technology we're contemplating digging up roads at huge expense and inconvenience to install networks when a cheaper solution may be at hand."

A community Wi-Fi scheme is already underway in the London borough of Islington and has had a good response from local residents.

In related news, Broadband.co.uk has found that average UK connection speeds reached 4.25 megabits per second in May.