> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.linkrmap.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Frequently asked questions > Common questions about Linkr. For a precise summary of what is live, in beta, and on the roadmap, see [Product status](/docs/introduction/status). ## General ### Does Linkr replace my ISP? No. Linkr does not provide internet service. It is a way to share and discover connectivity that already exists. Your ISP delivers the connection; Linkr coordinates discovery and access. ### Is Linkr a VPN? No. Linkr is not a VPN and does not provide encryption, anonymity, or tunneling. When you use a Linkr hotspot, your traffic passes through that hotspot's network. If you need VPN functionality, use a separate VPN service. ### Who can use Linkr? Anyone can use the **public map and API** — they are open, cover New York City, and need no account. The **mobile app** is in invitation-only beta: [join the waitlist](https://linkrmap.com) and you will be invited from it in batches. ### What does "community-powered" mean? It means the network is meant to be built by its participants, not by a central provider. Every hotspot in the app is shared by a person. Linkr provides the coordination layer; the connectivity comes from the community. ## The dataset and the app ### Is the map real? The public map is a **curated preview** of 78 sample hotspots in New York City. The listings and owner handles are illustrative. Real, user-contributed hotspots live in the beta app. ### Where do hotspots I create go? In the current beta, hotspots you create are stored **on your device**. They are not yet published to the public map or API, and they do not sync across devices. ### Does the app connect me to Wi-Fi automatically? Not yet. The app helps you find hotspots and read their details; you connect through your device's Wi-Fi settings. Automatic connection is on the roadmap. ## Security and privacy ### Is it safe to use a hotspot? Using a Linkr hotspot is like using any network you do not control. The link between your device and the hotspot may be encrypted (WPA2/WPA3), but traffic beyond it travels over the contributor's network and the public internet. Prefer HTTPS, consider a VPN, and be cautious on **Open** (unencrypted) networks. ### Is it safe to share my hotspot? Sharing exposes your network to others. Use a guest network isolated from your primary one, keep your router updated, and consider bandwidth limits. ### What data does Linkr collect? Today: your email if you join the waitlist (via the website form). In the beta app, the hotspots and settings you create are stored on your device. There is no server-side account system yet, so there is no central store of accounts or connection history. ## Sharing hotspots ### Do I need special hardware? No. Any device that can create a wireless access point can become a Linkr hotspot: home routers, phones, dedicated access points. ### Can I share my phone's hotspot? Yes. Choose **Mobile data** as the network type when you share. Mobile hotspots tend to be less consistent (they move, battery drains, signal varies). ### Can I control who accesses my hotspot? You can set a hotspot as **publicly available** or not, and choose whether to **allow international access**. Per-user approval and multi-tier access are on the roadmap. ## The API ### Is there an API? Yes — a read-only API over the New York City preview dataset. Three `GET` endpoints, no writes. See the [API reference](/docs/api-reference/overview). ### How do I get an API key? The API accepts any key matching `linkr_test_*` or `linkr_live_*` followed by at least six alphanumeric characters, e.g. `linkr_test_demo01`. This is an open demo-key format — there is no key issuance or rate limiting today. See [Authentication](/docs/api-reference/authentication). ## Technical ### What platforms does Linkr support? The public map and API run in any modern browser. The mobile app is in invitation-only beta on iOS. Broader platform availability is on the roadmap. ### How do I report a bug or issue? Email [support@linkrmap.com](mailto:support@linkrmap.com) with a description of the issue, your device, and any relevant screenshots. ## Philosophy ### Why does Linkr exist? Connectivity is everywhere, but finding and accessing it remains difficult. Linkr exists to make local connectivity discoverable and, over time, accessible — shared, observable, and reliable. ### Is Linkr trying to replace telecom companies? No. Linkr complements existing infrastructure by adding a discovery and coordination layer. Telecoms provide the connectivity; Linkr helps it become visible and shared.