Detroit’s Digital Initiative
Detroit’s most visited parks now have free public WiFi service. The free WiFi, a partnership between the Downtown Detroit Partnership and Cronus Communications, is listed as “Detroit Parks” on mobile devices. Once a user agrees to the terms and conditions, they will be connected to the Internet. Looking for free WiFi? The WiFi service uses fiber feeds from the Cronus network which are connected to transmitters across the parks. The free WiFi is intended to encourage more people to use the parks, as well as create a more equitably connected city. “In today’s increasingly connected world, accessing the Internet is a big part of social experiences,” said Tom Paparaptis , CEO of Cronus. “Providing free public WiFi in our parks and community centers helps increase access, activate community spaces, and increase social connectivity among Detroit residents.”
Downtown Detroit Partnership Introduces Free High-Speed
The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has taken a groundbreaking step to enhance urban connectivity. Launching a free high-speed internet service for residents and visitors, the initiative underscores the commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive community. Not only will this facilitate seamless online interactions for businesses and individuals alike, but it also promises to bridge the digital divide that has been prevalent in urban areas. As cities worldwide strive for technological advancement, Detroit stands out, making digital accessibility a priority for its heart – the downtown area.
WiFi Across Parks and Public Spaces, Helping Bridge Digital Divide
Installed and sponsored by Detroit-based Cronus Communications, new network access to play major role in accelerating economic and social benefits for neighbors, visitors, and businesses alike
DETROIT – The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP), its CEO Eric Larson, and Board of Directors Chair, Cindy Pasky today announced the launch of free, high-speed public WiFi internet across the Downtown Detroit Parks and Public Spaces. “Our parks and public spaces have always played a vital role in bringing people together and the pandemic only reinforced the role they play as both regional attractions and neighborhood parks,” said Robert F. Gregory, chief planning and public spaces officer of the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “
The new internet networks bring our work to the next level, helping build digital equity by reducing barriers for community members and downtown Detroit residents without access, as well as affording greater ease, flexibility, and power to visitors and small business partners across the parks.”
Comparing with Other Cities’ Initiatives
It is estimated that 15 percent of households across the country lack subscriptions to any form of broadband service and about 14 million access service via a cellular data plan only. Detroit’s digital divide is consistently cited among the most extreme in the country. Approximately 63 percent of the city’s low-income households lack a home Internet connection compared with 35 percent of U.S. homes across the country.
The initial rollout includes five immediate downtown parks – Campus Martius Park, Cadillac Square, Capitol Park, Grand Circus Park, and The Woodward Esplanade — which collectively attract more than three million visitors annually through cultural experiences, programs, events, and activations. The community can start accessing the network “Detroit Parks” on all devices, without a password, at impressive speeds up to 1 GB. Free WiFi not only provides visitors equitable access to information but the ability to use the park networks to conduct a variety of important activities online. Including locating and scheduling COVID-19 testing or vaccinations, accessing education platforms and City resources, seeking employment, learning more about park wellness programs and offerings, and maintaining social connections and support.
Expanding WiFi Networks to Boost Downtown Detroit’s Economy
Two additional WiFi networks have also been launched, which will accelerate the economic recovery for the Downtown Detroit Parks and benefit small businesses. With over 250+ programming and event partners, 300 market vendors and 75+ mobile food businesses that participate each year in the public spaces, there’s a real business ecosystem that can now take advantage of high speed internet as a free amenity of the parks. With more online orders, deliveries and curbside pickup expected in 2021, the dedicated business owner network is a critically needed and timely service.
Cronus Communications LLC, Detroit’s only headquartered internet provider in Michigan, generously sponsored and partnered with the DDP to install the combination fiber and fixed wireless network. The infrastructure uses fiber feeds from the Cronus network connected to transmitters across the parks, eliminating the obstacle of construction and complex underground infrastructure. Superfast speeds are expected and the network can accommodate thousands of users online at one time.
Cronus and Downtown Detroit Partnership: A Digital Collaboration
“Cronus is proud and excited to partner with The Downtown Detroit Partnership to bring free public WiFi to the Downtown Parks and Public Spaces. Our network’s reliability and speed help users better communicate and capture life’s moments when it matters most.” In today’s increasingly connected world, accessing the internet is an essential human right and this is one way we’re giving back,” said Tom Paparaptis, president of Cronus.
Founded in 2008 on the principle that all businesses should have access to high-speed internet. Cronus delivers reliable internet, regardless of organization size. The downtown Detroit-headquartered company specializes in fixed wireless, fiber, and cellular solutions for small businesses, large commercial properties, and organizations. It has developed integrated WiFi systems for large commercial properties to enhance all systems usage, including restaurants and hotels.
The Importance of Connectivity in Public Spaces
Connectivity in public spaces is essential for promoting social interaction, economic vitality, and civic engagement. When people feel a connection to their community. They are more likely to participate in civic life, support local businesses, and take care of their surroundings. Active connection and connectivity in public spaces allow people to stay connected to the online world. They are also interacting with each other and their environment. This can be achieved through the provision of high-quality WiFi, mobile phone signal boosters, and other digital infrastructure. Active connection and connectivity in public spaces can offer a number of benefits, including:
Enhancing social interaction. People can use digital devices to connect with friends and family, share information, and participate in online communities. This connection can help to build stronger social bonds and create a more vibrant and inclusive community.
Promoting economic activity. Businesses can use digital technology to reach customers and offer new services. This can help to boost local economies and create jobs.
Encouraging civic engagement. People can use digital devices to learn about local issues, contact their elected officials, and participate in civic events. This can help to strengthen democracy and make communities more responsive to the needs of their residents.
By investing in active connectivity in public spaces, cities, and communities. It can create more vibrant, inclusive, and economically vibrant places to live and work.
How the Free Public WiFi System Works
Free public WiFi systems provide internet access to users in public spaces, such as parks, libraries, and transportation hubs. Government agencies, businesses, or non-profit organizations typically fund these systems. To use a free public WiFi system. Users simply need to connect to the network name (SSID) and enter a password, if required. The password is typically provided by the organization that owns the network. Once connected, users can access the internet just like they would at home or at work. They can browse websites, check email, and use social media. Here is a more detailed explanation of how a free public WiFi system works:
The WiFi routers are installed in public spaces by the organization that owns the network.
The WiFi routers are connected to the internet via a wired connection.
The WiFi routers broadcast a WiFi signal that can be detected by devices that have WiFi capabilities.
When a user wants to connect to the free public WiFi network. They select the network name from the list of available networks on their device.
If a password is required, the user enters the password.
Once the user is connected, they can access the internet just like they would at home or at work.
Be careful when using public WiFi networks, as security may be less than private WiFi networks. This is because anyone with a WiFi-enabled device can connect to a free public WiFi network. Therefore, it is important to be careful about what data you share when using a free public WiFi network. Overall, free public WiFi systems can be a convenient and cheap way to stay connected in public spaces. However, it is important to be aware of the security risks involved in using these online networks.
Free Public WiFi Security
Free public WiFi network security can be less than private WiFi networks because anyone with a WiFi-enabled device can connect to them. This makes them a target for hackers who can steal personal information, install malware, or disrupt your online activity.
Here are some tips for staying safe when using free public WiFi:
Use a VPN (virtual private network) to add security. A VPN encrypts your data traffic so that it cannot be intercepted by hackers.
For security reasons, avoid entering sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, on public WiFi networks.
Be careful about the security of the websites you visit on public WiFi networks. Some websites may contain malware or other malicious content.
Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect your devices from cyberattacks.
In addition to these tips. You can also take the following steps to improve the security of free public WiFi networks:
For security reasons, use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all of your online accounts.
Security will improve if you keep your antivirus software up to date.
Be aware of the physical security of your devices. Avoid leaving your devices unattended in public spaces.
By following these tips, you can help protect your data from the security risks associated with using free public WiFi.
Security Risks That You May Face When Using Free Public WiFi
Man-in-the-middle attacks. For security concerns, Hackers can intercept your traffic and steal your personal information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.
Phishing attacks. A security threat in which hackers can create fake websites that look like legitimate websites in order to trick you into entering your personal information.
Malware attacks. A security threat in which hackers can install malware on your device. They can steal your personal information or disrupt your online activity.
Denial-of-service attacks. A security threat in which hackers can flood a network with traffic in order to make it unavailable to legitimate users.
By being aware of these risks and taking steps to protect yourself. You can help minimize the chances of becoming a victim of a security attack while using free public WiFi.
About Downtown Detroit Partnership
Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) strengthens and supports Downtown Detroit through strategic initiatives and programs. DDP convenes business, philanthropic, and government partners to create a vibrant and resilient urban core for Detroit and the surrounding community. DDP is responsible for programming, managing, and operating several of Downtown Detroit’s parks and public spaces.
About the Cronus Communications LLC
When choosing an internet service provider in Detroit, compare speeds, reliability, and WiFi quality. Speed is how fast you can download/upload, reliability is uptime, and WiFi quality is connection strength. Fiber offers top speed and WiFi quality, while cable is budget-friendly. Consider your needs and budget Detroit-based Cronus Communications offers Michigan’s most reliable internet access solutions that keep your business running, no matter what.