Many of us now use the internet as a part of our daily routines, it is an important part of our lives. But getting access to the internet can be expensive, and many people in the works can't afford internet access all. However, a company called Outernet has revealed plans to deliver free internet access to everyone on the planet.
The idea is Outernet will set up an entire network of satellites that will beam data to towers on the ground, which will then use long range WiFi technologies to beam the data to your device, whether it's a computer, smartphone, tablet, console or smart TV. In essence it is similar to the way 3G or 4G data works, with satellites connected to towers, in turn connected to your phone. However, rather than using expensive HSPA or LTE technologies to connect your phone to the tower, Outernet will use long range WiFi technologies. This means all WiFi supported devices could potentially access Outernet broadband, which aims to connect users with no cost at all. Outernet claim that internet access is a human right, the right to knowledge and communication. They also say that there are more computerised devices in the world than people, but only 60% of people in the world can access internet. Outernet aims to be the first internet provider to connect everyone, with the help of WiFi Multicast technologies. Multicast works by sending data to multiple destinations at once, and then separating the data for individual users afterwards. This allows them to provide for large numbers of people at once, without the network slowing down too much. The benefits of such a network could be massive; obviously, all of you could save a lot if money on both home broadband and your 3G/4G phone plan, but worldwide people in poverty could get access to the internet for the first time, helping to provide education where schools don't exist, helping doctors coordinate relief efforts in disaster struck countries, and keeping families and friends connected over massive distances. Outernet are preparing tests and early development for later this year, and the first satellites are set to launch by June 2015. Obviously, setting up this network requires money, and because Outernet will offer it for free, they need money from sponsors and donors, so if you want to support the project, follow
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