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Create a Hotspot

This guide walks you through the complete process of setting up a Linkr hotspot, from initial signup to going live on the network.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:
  • A compatible router or access point
  • A stable internet connection (minimum 10 Mbps recommended)
  • The Linkr app installed on your mobile device
  • Physical access to the location where you’ll operate the hotspot

Step 1: Create an Account

If you don’t already have a Linkr account:
  1. Open the Linkr app
  2. Tap Create Account
  3. Enter your email address and create a password
  4. Verify your email through the confirmation link
If you already have a Linkr account as a user, you can use the same account to become an operator. No need to create a separate account.

Step 2: Start Hotspot Registration

From the app’s main screen:
  1. Tap the + button or navigate to My Hotspots
  2. Select Register New Hotspot
  3. Choose your hotspot type:
    • Home: Residential location
    • Business: Commercial establishment
    • Public: Community or public space

Step 3: Verify Your Location

Linkr requires location verification to ensure accurate coverage data.

GPS Verification

For most setups, GPS verification is the simplest option:
  1. Enable location services when prompted
  2. Stand near your router’s intended location
  3. Tap Verify Location
  4. Wait for GPS confirmation (usually takes a few seconds)

Address Verification

If GPS is unavailable or inaccurate:
  1. Select Verify by Address
  2. Enter the complete street address
  3. Confirm the location on the map
  4. You may be asked to upload a photo of the location for manual review
Location data must be accurate. Hotspots with mismatched locations may be suspended and lose eligibility for rewards.

Step 4: Configure Your Router

Set up your router to work with Linkr. The exact steps depend on your hardware, but the general process is: Most routers support guest networks, which isolate Linkr traffic from your main network:
  1. Log into your router’s admin panel
  2. Navigate to Wireless or Guest Network settings
  3. Enable the guest network
  4. Set the network name (SSID) to something recognizable (e.g., “Linkr-YourName”)
  5. Configure security settings (WPA2 or WPA3 recommended)
  6. Enable client isolation if available

Option B: Dedicated SSID

For more control, create a dedicated SSID:
  1. Create a new wireless network in your router settings
  2. Assign it to a separate VLAN if your router supports it
  3. Configure bandwidth limits to protect your main connection
  4. Apply the same security settings as above

Bandwidth Limits

Consider setting bandwidth limits to ensure your personal usage isn’t affected:
Connection SpeedRecommended Limit for Linkr
25 Mbps10 Mbps
50 Mbps20 Mbps
100+ Mbps30-50 Mbps
Connect your router to your Linkr account:
  1. In the app, tap Link Device
  2. Enter the network name (SSID) you configured
  3. Enter the network password
  4. The app will attempt to verify the connection
If verification succeeds, you’ll see a confirmation message. If it fails:
  • Double-check the SSID and password
  • Ensure your phone is connected to the same network
  • Try moving closer to the router

Step 6: Configure Hotspot Settings

Before going live, review your hotspot settings:

Basic Settings

  • Hotspot Name: A friendly name shown to users (e.g., “Downtown Coffee Shop”)
  • Description: Optional details about the location
  • Operating Hours: Set hours if your hotspot isn’t available 24/7

Access Settings

  • Open Access: Anyone can connect
  • Verified Users Only: Only users with verified Linkr accounts
  • Approval Required: You manually approve each connection request

Performance Settings

  • Max Connections: Limit simultaneous users (recommended: 5-10 for home, 20+ for business)
  • Session Duration: Maximum time per session (optional)

Step 7: Go Live

When you’re ready:
  1. Review all settings one final time
  2. Tap Go Live
  3. Confirm by tapping Yes, Enable Hotspot
Your hotspot will now appear on the global coverage map. It may take a few minutes for the status to update.

Step 8: Monitor Your Hotspot

After going live, monitor your hotspot through the dashboard:

Status Indicators

  • Green: Online and healthy
  • Yellow: Online but experiencing issues
  • Red: Offline or unreachable

Key Metrics

  • Uptime: Percentage of time the hotspot has been available
  • Connections: Number of users who have connected
  • Bandwidth Used: Total data transferred
  • Rewards Earned: Current period earnings

Troubleshooting

If your hotspot isn’t working as expected:
IssueSolution
Status shows “Offline”Check internet connection and router power
Can’t verify locationTry GPS verification outdoors, or use address verification
Device won’t linkEnsure SSID and password are correct
Low performance scoreCheck for interference, consider repositioning router
For more help, see the Troubleshooting Guide.

Next Steps