wirelessing the world

1. CWNs are community wireless networks that allow for open. free accessible, nonproproetary systems to be built using the buying power and economies of scale withing neighborhoods, towns, and cities. CWNs are a way for resident to build rescources in their communities, save money, and free themselves from profit-driven business models. This bridges the digital divide by eliminating one problem facing users: end users having to pay directly for access.



2. Barriers: The battles fought over control in wireless mirror previous technological battles between big business and the greater good. As with the telephone, many wireless providors are made up of powerful, profit focused companies that hold have a niche in the wireless market, These companies belong to a trade group called WiMax. This forum is composed of industry leaders whose interest seems to be maximizing profit. this forum would like to "eleiminate all competing standards before the public has any idea of what the alternatives maight be." this system creates a standards-compliance structure that puts smaller, CWN's at a disadvantage. Bid business is hard to overcome and our current system does not help.

3. The result of fewer companies controlling the market share comes from corporate consolidation and the early buying of technology before anyone else has a chance. controls over wireless technilogies are quickly being consolidated by large corporations whose main interest in bolstering profit. These companies have the money and power to gain control ovder any new develoopment before any small-scale firm. This is a very common and smart business move. If companies don;t consolidate, there will be too many different people involved. Though not very personable and it may not result in cheaper wireless tactics, the networks are easier to control this way.