German cable operator NetCologne has installed Wi-Fi hotspots in Cologne through which internet users can surf the net free of charge with their smartphones, tablets or laptops.
The wireless internet zones are located at public squares in the city centre: Rathausplatz, Willy-Brandt-Platz (around the Köln Arena), Alter Markt, Heinrich-Böll-Platz, Roncalliplatz and Ottoplatz. Heumarkt will be covered from summer along with further highly frequented areas.
To gain access, users have to register with their name, e-mail address and mobile phone number; then they can instantly use the service. After an hour, the connection is automatically terminated, but users can log on again immediately – as often as they like.
Each Wi-Fi antenna is connected to a 100Mbps broadband line which can serve up to 500 users at the same time. The free hotspot service is paid for by sponsors.
