Smart to expand WiFi network in Cork

Smart Telecom is set to roll out wireless internet access to more areas in Cork following the success of its network in the city centre.

More than 2,500 people have logged onto the new Smart WiFi network in Cork’s city centre since it began operating four months ago.

Smart WiFi, which is a joint venture between Smart Telecom and Cork City Council, is essentially a wireless network which allows users to avail of high-speed internet access without having to plug into a socket.

The service covers a 1.5 square kilometre area of the city centre and has the capability of allowing roaming data within the entire coverage area.

This means that the user can roam within the entire area without losing an internet signal.

Smart Telecom claims that Smart WiFi is half the price of other WiFi hotspot areas in the city, with prices beginning at 5 for four hours’ access to the network.

Alternatively, users can pay 10 for 24 hours of access or 35 for 30 days.

The Smart WiFi network is accessible by the public via credit card or Laser on any WiFi compatible device such as laptops and PDAs.

It delivers internet broadband speeds to support fast web browsing and e-mail access at up to 2Mbps.

The network utilises the recently commissioned Cork Metropolitan Area Network (CMAN) installed by Cork City Council to provide internet access.

“We are delighted that the uptake has been so enthusiastic in the Cork area,” Smart Telecom chief executive Oisín Fanning told the Evening Echo.

“Smart Telecom is a well-established player in the Irish telecommunications market and Cork is a key area for us.

“We are very much looking forward to servicing this market in the future," added Mr Fanning.