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Community Matters: Wireless Networks

To “go wireless” means that information, such as Internet access, can be transferred over a distance without the use of electrical conductors, or “wires”. Localities can provide wireless services by building towers in different locations and connecting them to a central location from which the wireless service is provided. Like using a cellular phone, anyone within the coverage area can connect to the Internet through their personal computers and other hand-held devices within the service area. Another method to provide wireless services is through a mesh network. Mesh networks serve smaller areas than traditional towers and rely on multiple connections, rather than a central server. Several cities in Southern California already provide, or plan to provide, wireless services within their boundaries. These include Culver City, Hermosa Beach, Cerritos, and West Hollywood. To see an example of how a locality can go wireless, please visit Culver City’s website at www.culvercity.org.