Ruckus and Easyweb to roll out free WiFi across NT

Ruckus Networks, an ARRIS company, today announced it is working with Easyweb Digital to provide free WiFi to 25 remote locations across Australia's Northern Territory (NT).

Last year, more than 1.8 million people visited NT, and there have been rising tourist expectations to connect to WiFi anytime, anywhere seamlessly.

Having worked on successful connectivity projects across Australia for a variety of communities, Easyweb Digital was selected by Tourism NT to help connect tourists at remote NT locations.

Once implemented, this project will help improve the ability of local businesses to advertise tours and services.

"Easyweb Digital connects communities across Australia by building innovative, reliable and simple-to-manage networks," says Easyweb business manager Daniel Sacchero.

"But in remote locations, and given the extreme geographic and weather conditions in NT, this is a real challenge.

The NT is known for its extreme weather - harsh sun, intense humidity, heavy rains and monsoonal storms.

Ruckus Networks' T301 and T300 outdoor access points were installed to reduce the chances of Wi-Fi connectivity deterioration to overcome the weather challenges.

The Encapto public Wi-Fi management platform also allowed Easyweb Digital to set up dedicated site portals to highlight important site information and to allow local tourism operators to advertise.

Not only has the service provided access for domestic and international visitors, but it has also aided local community members who require online engagement.

At many of the remote sites, it is the only cost-effective Internet connectivity available.

"We are proud of this collaboration with Easyweb Digital to bring connectivity to the most remote places," says Ruckus Networks ANZ country manager Carl Jefferys.

"Not only is this a step towards making a huge difference in people's everyday lives, but it also creates new business opportunities for local organisations with limited means.

Easyweb Digital and Ruckus Networks' collaboration has brought access to WiFi in more than 25 favourite tourist locations across the Northern Territory.

The sites include iconic landmarks such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Watarkka National Park (Kings Canyon), Desert Park, Karlu Karlu (Devil Marbles), Litchfield National Park, and Kakadu National Park.