Revolutionizing Remote Connectivity with WestEnd WiFi and GoZone WiFi

Delivering reliable Wi-Fi to remote locations like campgrounds, marinas, and farms has long been a challenge due to the limited availability and high cost of backhaul. However, WestEnd WiFi is now offering a groundbreaking solution by leveraging Starlink satellite broadband for backhaul and GoZone WiFi for comprehensive service management, including captive portals, analytics, and payment schemes.

Comprehensive Wi-Fi Solutions for Remote Areas

WestEnd WiFi’s preconfigured package includes everything needed to set up a complete public or private Wi-Fi network. This package comprises a Starlink terminal, Ruckus (CommScope) access points, the GoZone WiFi platform, and peripheral equipment like a VPN for remote management. If necessary, additional equipment such as 60 GHz radios or Wi-Fi mesh can be included to further distribute the backhaul to more access points.

“This will make a huge difference for all places that are far from fixed network grids – and there are a large number of those right across the U.K. Starlink offers the ubiquitous backhaul that is otherwise difficult to procure, while GoZone WiFi delivers all the flexibility we need for creating Wi-Fi services, payment schemes, analytics, and more,” says Tim Belfall, Director at WestEnd WiFi.

Starlink’s Role in Remote Connectivity

In the UK, Starlink residential service provides up to 200 Mbps downlink and 20 Mbps uplink for £89 (about US$109) a month, with an initial hardware cost of £529 (about US$648). While these services are configured to work at a single location, they can be moved for an additional fee payable to Starlink. Full Wi-Fi services require suitable Wi-Fi APs and other equipment. For the complete equipment list, fill out the form below to download the case story document.

“The speeds may not sound like a lot, but they are very useful for many use cases. Add to this that it is possible to double or triple the data rates by aggregating several Starlink terminals using suitable channel bonding equipment,” Tim Belfall says. WestEnd WiFi has conducted extensive tests to verify performance and required equipment configurations. These test configurations and results are available in the case story paper.

GoZone WiFi’s Service Management Capabilities

GoZone WiFi CEO & founder Todd Myers emphasizes that the availability of backhaul, such as Starlink, opens up markets underserved with Wi-Fi. All public or private enterprise networks will benefit from GoZone WiFi’s service management, analytics, and marketing capabilities. “We’re excited to be part of the ecosystem delivering Wi-Fi to outlying areas together with WestEnd WiFi and offering the tools to make such networks profitable and sustainable. Wi-Fi should be for everyone, including tourists, businesses, and industry in remote locations,” says Todd Myers.

Benefits of Advanced Captive Portals in Outdoor Parks

Implementing advanced captive portals in outdoor parks can significantly enhance the overall visitor experience and provide numerous benefits:

1. Enhanced User Experience: Captive portals offer an easy and intuitive way for visitors to access Wi-Fi services. A seamless login process ensures a positive user experience from the moment they connect.
2. Visitor Data Collection: Advanced captive portals enable the collection of valuable visitor data, such as contact information and user demographics. This data helps park management understand visitor behavior, preferences, and trends, allowing for tailored services and marketing efforts.
3. Targeted Marketing and Promotions: Leveraging data collected through captive portals, parks can deliver targeted marketing messages and promotions directly to visitors. Information about upcoming events, special offers, or nearby attractions can enhance the visitor experience.
4. Monetization Opportunities: Captive portals can introduce monetization strategies like sponsored content, advertisements, or premium Wi-Fi plans. This creates additional revenue streams for parks while providing value to sponsors and advertisers.
5. Enhanced Security: Captive portals can include security features such as user authentication and access controls, ensuring that only authorized users access the Wi-Fi network. This helps protect both the network and its users from potential security threats.
6. Community Engagement: Parks can use captive portals to promote community engagement by sharing information about local events, volunteer opportunities, and park initiatives. This fosters a sense of community and encourages visitors to participate in and support park activities.
7. Feedback and Surveys: Captive portals can gather feedback from visitors through surveys and questionnaires. This feedback is invaluable for park management to identify areas for improvement and enhance the visitor experience.

Conclusion

By incorporating advanced captive portals into their Wi-Fi service offerings, outdoor parks can create a more connected, engaging, and enjoyable environment for their visitors. GoZone WiFi’s platform, with its robust captive portal capabilities, provides the perfect solution for parks looking to enhance their Wi-Fi services and leverage the full potential of connectivity.