Re: [PLUG] (OT) Philadelphia Wireless

Back on topic maybe?

I've used library services at times and it was helpful, but the imposed time limits have always been frustrating when I did so. I always wondered why they didn't get more machines and increase their time limits. Machine Cost? Space? MS Windows cost? As far as Windows cost, why not run Linux instead (though maybe they get their Windows for free). Or at least have some Linux machines available for those that don't mind using it.

From: Conor Schaefer <conor.schaefer@gmail.com>
To: Philadelphia Linux User's Group Discussion List <plug@lists.phillylinux.org>
Sent: Wed, May 19, 2010 11:54:34 AM
Subject: Re: [PLUG] (OT) Philadelphia Wireless

On Wed, May 19, 2010 at 10:54 AM, jeff <jeffv@op.net> wrote:

> "The city said the purchase will be the first in a series of steps to
> create a wireless network it will use to enhance public safety,
> improve government efficiency

that's just creepy (to me).

Such a conversation may be off-topic for this list, but personally I'm in favor of such a program. I work with a large number of individuals who are not in a position to subscribe to an ISP at home, and libraries have limited capabilities in serving communities' needs for access to digital information. Libraries are certainly an excellent resources, though, and I think that city-wide wifi should supplement library access, not replace it.

If you're concerned about privacy with public wifi, private ISPs are certainly a great option, though hardly protection for your browsing habits, as governmental agencies can relatively easily request IP logs and similar information. HTTPS implementations are broadening rapidly, with even Google announcing that basic Google searches will have an HTTPS option in the near future.

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