January 2009

Wireless Network Complete

After two years of network design and construction, the City’s wireless network is complete. The network consists of 190 wireless mesh radios over approximately 4 square miles within the City limits. The radios are attached to a variety of structures including Georgia Power utility poles, traffic signal poles, city-owned poles, and government and commercial buildings. 

The network provides outdoor, high-speed Internet access to devices with wireless networking capabilities. For indoor access, most users will need a device called a CPE (consumer premise equipment) or wireless modem to strengthen the signal. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am in the service area?

Due to the general nature of wireless technology and the limits presented by the City's foliage and terrain, some areas of the City will not be covered. For general coverage information, refer to the attached coverage map.

Using the wireless utility on your computer, search for wireless networks. The City’s network is called ‘DecaturWiFi’. If you can see ‘DecaturWiFi’ then you are in the service area.

How do I connect to the network?

1-Enable your wireless (WiFi) device

2-Connect to the SSID “DecaturWiFi”

3-Launch your Internet browser

4-You will be redirected to the login portal

For more specific information, click on ‘Access Instructions’.

I can see Decatur WiFi but when I click on it, nothing happens.

More than likely, you have a weak signal and need to use a CPE/wireless modem to strengthen the signal. In most cases, a wireless modem will be required to bring the wireless signal into your residence or business.  Click here to determine if you may need a wireless modem.  Modems are available through Get The Speed for purchase or lease.  Contact the City’s Internet Service Provider, Get The Speed, at 1-888-945-9434 to request a CPE. 

How much does it cost for Internet access?

Get The Speed offers two consecutive hours of free access within a 24 hour period at 128kbps and high speed access for hourly, daily, and monthly rates.  

Hourly Internet Access - $2.95
Hourly Wireless Internet Access within the DecaturWiFi network. Additional minutes billed at $0.05 per minute.

24 Hour Access - $7.95
24 Hours of continuous access to the wireless internet within the DecaturWiFi Network. This plan will not auto-renew.

Single Month Access - $29.95
One single month of continuous access to the wireless internet within the DecaturWiFi Network. This plan will NOT auto-renew.

12 Month Subscription Plan - $21.95
12 Months of continuous access the wireless internet within the DecaturWiFi Network billed on a monthly basis. This plan will auto-renew for 12 consecutive months.

I still have questions about the service. Who do I call for support?

Technical support is available 24x7.  Please report technical concerns to sales@getthespeed.com or call 1-888-945-WiFi (9434). Your feedback will help us to improve the network.

For additional information and to sign up, visit www.getthespeed.com or call 1-888-945-WiFi (9434).

Background

In October 2006, the City of Decatur was selected to receive grant funding to establish a wireless broadband network or “Wi-Fi” through the Governor's Wireless Communities Georgia Program.

The city has partnered with Agnes Scott College, City Schools of Decatur, Columbia Theological Seminary and the Downtown Development Authority to build a citywide wireless network. 

The City of Decatur owns the wireless network and partners with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), Get The Speed, for the operation of the network.   

The network will provides high-speed, wireless Internet access for residents, businesses, students and visitors throughout the city.

The goals of the program are to
• Provide wireless networking for mobile city staff to enhance productivity (police, fire, public works, parking meters, inspections).

• Offer affordable Internet access to students to access homework and school network resources.

• Provide institutional wireless networking beyond campus limits.

• Attract and retain businesses in the commercial business districts.

• Enhance options to live, work, play, and learn while in Decatur.

Partners

In addition to the State of Georgia and the City of Decatur, Agnes Scott College, City Schools of Decatur, Columbia Theological Seminary, and the Downtown Development Authority all provided financial support to offset the capital expenses of the network. Another partner is Cisco Systems which is the network equipment vendor.  The city's network will be a Cisco case study and will serve as a showcase site for the State of Georgia and the Southeast.

VC3, Inc. provided network design and installation services and will maintain the network.