August 19, 2014
Mayor of Tel Aviv Ron Huldai: The city WiFi will enable the city's visitors and residents to enjoy free surfing throughout the city. (Kfir Sivan)
Mayor of Tel Aviv Ron Huldai: The city WiFi will enable the city’s visitors and residents to enjoy free surfing throughout the city. (Kfir Sivan)

Accessing WiFi in Israel just got easier: Communications Minister Gilad Erdan recently announced that he is cancelling router restrictions on public use of WiFi, meaning anyone anywhere can now set up free Internet hotspots indoors and outdoors across Israel.

Israelis are already known among the world’s top internet users. Erdan says in a press release that he signed the order to open public accessibility so that Israelis – and tourists – can “remain up to date and connected” at all times.

In light of new technologies that have appeared over the past few years, the ministry has decided to remove limitations on use of Wifi, which until now had been limited to indoor venues. It will now be possible to offer Internet services anywhere in Israel,” the press release reads.

The new rules stipulate that while anyone from municipalities to private companies and cafes can set up routers, no one is allowed to charge a connecting fee.

Moreover, routers can be set up in public outdoor spaces now and not solely indoors. This move will benefit cities like Tel Aviv and Ariel – which already provide free WiFi – but had to do so from the inside of buildings thus making accessibility shoddy.

So, get ready, because you’ll soon be able to surf in parks, at beaches, on campus and while you’re walking down the street.

 

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Jason Harris

Jason Harris

Executive Director

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