Free Wi-Fi in S.F. More Than Flipping a Switch

EarthLink will deploy 1,700 nodes on utility poles, averaging about 30 to 36 nodes per square mile. EarthLink acknowledges that the network will not be able to reach residents living above 30 feet or what is typically the third floor of a building. And like other cities with citywide Wi-Fi networks, some residents will need to get a wireless bridge that sits in their home to boost the signal indoors. EarthLink customers will get this device for free, but people using Google's free service will have to buy the customer premise equipment at a local electronics store for about $100 to $120.