Hotspots
A hotspot in the Linkr network is a verified wireless access point that shares internet connectivity with nearby users. Hotspots are operated by community members and form the backbone of the Linkr coverage map.What is a Hotspot?
A hotspot consists of three components:- A physical device: A router, access point, or compatible hardware that broadcasts a wireless signal
- An internet connection: The upstream connectivity that the hotspot shares (home broadband, business fiber, etc.)
- Linkr verification: Registration through the Linkr app that validates the hotspot’s location and links it to an operator account
Requirements
To operate a Linkr hotspot, you need:| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatible device | Any router or access point that supports guest network isolation |
| Internet connection | Stable upstream connection (minimum 10 Mbps recommended) |
| Linkr account | Verified account with location confirmation |
| Physical location | Fixed location where the hotspot will operate |
Linkr does not require specialized hardware. Most consumer and business routers work out of the box. Some operators choose dedicated access points for better performance.
Typical Setups
Home Router
The most common setup. A home user shares a portion of their residential internet through a guest network. The main network remains private and isolated. Pros: Easy to set up, no additional hardware costsCons: Coverage limited to home vicinity, availability tied to home occupancy
Cafe or Retail Location
Business owners can register their existing customer Wi-Fi as a Linkr hotspot. This provides verified coverage data and potential rewards while serving existing customers. Pros: High foot traffic, extended operating hoursCons: Shared bandwidth with customers, may require business-grade equipment
Co-working Space
Co-working spaces often have robust internet infrastructure. Registering as a Linkr hotspot extends coverage to the surrounding area and provides visibility on the global map. Pros: High-quality infrastructure, reliable uptimeCons: May require coordination with facility management
Dedicated Outdoor Installation
Some operators deploy weatherproof access points in strategic locations (rooftops, public areas) to maximize coverage. These setups require more investment but can serve larger areas. Pros: Maximum coverage, professional-grade performanceCons: Higher cost, installation complexity
Hotspot Lifecycle
- Register: Create a hotspot entry in the Linkr app
- Verify Location: Confirm the physical location through GPS or address verification
- Link Device: Connect your router or access point to your Linkr account
- Go Live: Enable the hotspot to appear on the coverage map
- Monitor: Track uptime, connections, and performance through the dashboard
- Earn Rewards: Receive rewards based on availability and performance metrics
Hotspot Status
Each hotspot has a status that reflects its current state:| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
online | Hotspot is active and accepting connections |
offline | Hotspot is not responding to health checks |
degraded | Hotspot is online but experiencing performance issues |
pending | Hotspot is registered but not yet verified |
suspended | Hotspot has been temporarily disabled |
Coverage and Signal
Linkr estimates coverage based on:- Device type: Different hardware has different transmission ranges
- Environment: Indoor vs outdoor, obstacles, interference
- Reported telemetry: Actual connection data from users