Comcast rolls out 3800 Wi-Fi hotspots in Washington DC

Internet is a staple of modern existence, and whilst on the go we can typically access it via the 3G or 4G connection accompanying our cell phone. There are times when a Wi-Fi connection is more in tune with our needs, however, and while many cafes and similar offer free Wi-FI networks, there's still a notable lack of blanket networks offering coverage over large areas. Such is no longer the case for Xfinity customers in parts of Washington DC, where Comcast has launched 3800 hotspots.

The service will eventually be free only for those who subscribe to Comcast's Xfinity service, but until July 4th, anyone will be able to use the hotspots networks free of charge. The networks will show up as "xfinitywifi" on their network list, making them easy to spot. Networks can be found using the Xfinity hotspot app to make the discovery process faster.

After connecting to the network, the user will need to sign into their Comcast Xfinity account, with the exception of the next couple weeks, during which time anyone can use the networks. The hotspots are said to blanket locations where wifi networks are often sought, such as restaurants and shopping centers. The locations are comprised of Adams Morgan, Capitol Hill, Chinatown, Dupont Circle, Eastern Market, Foggy Bottom, Georgetown and the U Street Corridor.

Comcast's Regional VP of Sales and Marketing Alan Clairmont said: "Our customers continue to look for ways to communicate and access their entertainment with wireless devices, including the tens of thousands of TV shows and movies available on Xfinity TV platforms. Xfinity WiFi gives our customers free access to thousands of hotspots where they can stay connected and surf online anywhere and at anytime."

Comcast says it is using two methods to roll out hotspots, the first being part of the CableWiFi Alliance. The second is a bit more interesting, however, with the ISP briefly mentioning a "new home-based neighborhood hotspot initiative," which suggests customers' own routers/connections will be used in part to broadcast publicly-available Xfinity hotspots. The project wasn't detailed, however.

SOURCE: Fierce Cable