The current dataset covers New York City. See Product status
for the full picture.
Ways to find hotspots
Proximity
In the app, with location access granted, the map centers on where you are so you can see nearby hotspots first. This is the fastest way to find connectivity in an unfamiliar place.Search
To explore a specific area — for example a place you are heading to:- Tap the search bar
- Enter an address, neighborhood, or landmark
- The map moves to that location
- Browse the hotspots there
Browse
You can pan and zoom the map manually to survey an area, spot clusters of hotspots, or get a feel for how the dataset is laid out.Filtering
Use filters to narrow what you see — for example by network type or risk level. Filters help you focus on the hotspots most relevant to your situation.Weighing your options
When you have several hotspots to choose from:- Check the network type and signal — will it be strong enough?
- Check security — prefer WPA2/WPA3 over Open
- Consider proximity — closer usually means a better signal
- Read the note — it often has the practical details
Using a hotspot
Once you have picked a hotspot, review its details and the contributor’s note, then connect through your device’s Wi-Fi settings.The app does not automatically join networks for you yet — see
Using a hotspot. Automatic connection is on the roadmap.
When nothing is available
Sometimes there are no usable hotspots nearby. Your options:- Move to an area with more coverage
- Contribute — if you have connectivity to share, add it to help others