Air-Net provides online authentication and billing system for AirMatrix Mesh




-/February 4, 2006 - Wi-Fi Technology News/-Defacto Wireless Distribution, LLC has partnered with Air-Net to provide a revolutionary online authentication and billing system for the popular AirMatrix Mesh product line. The Air-Net online user authentication and billing system provides a comprehensive customer system for mesh operators, mesh installers and mesh hotspots, supporting hotspot and subscriber services in one web based package.

Air-Net provides a Global Roaming service so registered users can connect at any Air Net equipped mesh worldwide. Users can also roam locally across nodes within a mesh, or across meshes operated by the same owner or ISP. User authentication is by email address and password and these are managed centrally through the Air-Net user database. This means that owners and operators can now allow users to register and access their mesh automatically generating revenues from passing visitors and subscribers alike. (Air-Net works with MAC based WIANA authorization)

Users register for an Air-Net Global account using their email address, and specify their preferred language and currency. They can then add credit to their account using Credit Cards or Pay Pal.

When they arrive at an Air-Net HotSpot or Mesh they are presented with the access costs converted to their preferred currency, and in their preferred language. They select the speed they want, the duration (min 5 mins) and are given access to the mesh for that duration. The associated cost is deducted from their Air-Net Global account.

Users can also pay the operator or HotSpot directly in local currency and are given local credit that can be used to book access. Local HotSpot costs can be in any global currency and users can use this credit on any other meshes owned or operated by the same owner. This is ideal for Hotel Chains or Multi Mesh operators.

Using the Air-Net system mesh operators can provide a hotspot and subscriber billing system, earning revenue from cash sales and online payments. Set-up is immediate and no additional hardware or software is needed. The system suits wireless ISPs and hotspot operators in the hotel and hospitality business.

The Air-Net system is linked in to the operator's mesh using "secure authentication" functions, using cryptographic tokens to authenticate users, helping to protect the network from unauthorized users and preserve operator revenues by terminating connections when the access time paid for expires.

The system is based around Users, Owners and Partners. Owners and Partners may be one and the same in the case of an ISP, but the system accommodates Partners who may specialize in installing meshes on behalf of HotSpot owners such as Hotels, Marinas etc.

Using the online management panel Owners and ISPs can set pricing, check usage and revenues, and update Splash Login Screens automatically. This powerful function allows for automatic updating of all splash screen across your mesh or meshes. It allows HotSpot Owners to communicate directly with users on an ongoing basis offering advice, specials and up-to-date system information.

For users, the Air-Net incorporates a HotSpot directory, allowing travelers to locate places where they can use their Air-Net global account while traveling. Additionally Air-Net will offer global promotion of its partner HotSpots and Meshes through propagation to other HotSpot directories bringing new visitors and revenues to local Meshes and HotSpots.

Air-Net will be promoting the adoption of its system in conjunction with AirMatrix Mesh & Defacto Wireless Distribution in the North American HotSpot market and is seeking to form partnerships with Mesh Operators and Installers around the world to which they can refer potential customers.

The Air-Net system has been developed in conjunction with the long-established mesh in Dundrum, Northern Ireland. Air-Net did their development work in Northern Ireland, working with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and a local hotel for the first pilot installation. Now the system is growing fast and Air-Net has live meshes using the system in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, UK and Africa.

For more information contact Defacto Wireless Distribution at (888) 275-5159.

www.defactowireless.com