Start Your Own ISP (startyourownisp.com)

Article summary

The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to start a Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP), covering topics such as evaluating an area, finding a fiber provider, and building infrastructure. The guide is focused on the early stages of starting a WISP and aims to help individuals start their own internet service provider. The website also offers additional resources, including a store with discounted equipment and a community forum for discussion. The goal of the guide is to make starting a WISP more accessible and feasible for individuals.

Main themes

• Starting a WISP
• Community-run ISPs
• Wireless Internet
• Network Infrastructure
• Internet Service Providers

What commenters say

• Starting a community-run non-profit ISP can be a viable option for providing internet access, especially in areas with poor service from established providers. Some argue that the cost of starting a WISP can be prohibitively expensive, with estimated upfront costs ranging from $24,000 to $30,000. Others claim that the cost per user can be as low as $10/month, making it a potentially profitable venture. However, labor costs and customer support can be significant challenges for small-scale ISPs, making it difficult to compete with larger providers. The feasibility of starting a WISP also depends on various factors such as location, market demand, and topology. Some commenters argue that overselling bandwidth can be a viable strategy for WISPs, while others warn that it can lead to network congestion and poor service quality. Additionally, there are concerns about the legal and technical implications of running a decentralized mesh network, including issues with law enforcement and IP address attribution.