FAQs

In a nutshell—how does this work again?

We launch and deploy decentralized wireless (DeWi) networks, and we need hosts like you to do it. We provide everything you need to connect to and support the network, and we set it up for you at your home or business. That’s it–oh and you get paid for keeping the node running and connected to the network.

I’m confused. What is DeWi?

“DeWi” is short for “Decentralized Wireless,” which is a mouthful…so let’s use DeWi. DeWi networks, with coverage provided by nodes, enable IoT devices to operate more efficiently and not clog your wifi. By hosting DeWi hardware, you are building a community of connectivity that opens your city or organization to innovative technologies and new devices. For example, your DeWi hardware could be used to send important data from a fire alarm to the fire department, or the collar of a lost dog to its worried owner.

Check out our DeWi page for more detailed information.

Ok, well then what is IoT?

IoT stands for “Internet of Things.” An “IoT Device” is a new class of connected devices that sends small packets of data over long ranges. Think of pet trackers, temperature sensors, motion detectors, smart thermostats, electric scooter rentals, and more. These devices send small amounts of encrypted data over the network every few minutes when connected to wifi. With DeWi that device no longer needs to connect to wifi. When a DeWi enabled device is in range of your Node, you will be there to provide wireless coverage. The encrypted data is compressed, and you never notice the traffic over your home network. It’s a beautiful thing.

What is a Node?

Nodes are the hardware needed to make DeWi work. Nodes connect to all other nodes in their surrounding area and transfer data over the network. Nodes are the backbone of information transmission. Covering your community with nodes is fundamental to building a strong network and creating ubiquitous coverage for your community.

Do I install the Node?

You can, but we have a number of methods to get you going as a Host. We will come to you and set up your node so that you don’t have to do.. But if you’re the hands-on type, we’ll ship your DeWi node, and walk you through the setup over the phone.

How do I get paid?

We set each one of our hosts up with a direct deposit billing account that pays you monthly. The amount you’re able to earn depends on a number of factors, including the quality of your hosting location and what kind of DeWi networks we have available in your area. In short, our Hosts may be able to earn from hosting multiple DeWi networks from the same location.

How much power and bandwidth will hosting DeWi networks use?

DeWi networking utilizes LoRaWAN to enable low-bandwidth IoT devices to connect to the internet at ranges 200x that of regular WiFi. The DeWi Hardware uses very little data (1-5 kb per message) and energy (@peak<5W = less than an Ikea LED lightbulb) which means you won’t even notice it on your network, or your energy bill.

What is LoRaWAN?

LoRaWAN stands for Long Range Wide Area Network and is a Low Power Wide Area (LRWA) networking protocol. By design, it is used to connect battery powered ‘things’ wirelessly to the internet in cities and communities, targeting key IoT requirements such as bi-directional communication, end-to-end security, mobility and location services.

How secure is all this?

Very! First of all, we make sure that nothing on your home WiFi network will conflict with our hosting hardware. Nodes work just like any other hardware you’d connect to your home internet, like printers and TVs. Not to mention the end-to-end encryption and constantly running security checks that are programmed into the node. You could say that running DeWi is actually more secure than your WiFi.

If I change my mind in a few months, or if I move for work or school, what happens then?

No worries. Sometimes things happen that we can’t control. If you move for any reason, we’ll walk you through the process without any hassles. If your new location is a viable host option for the network, we’ll keep your account active. If not,or if you ever just decide not to be a Host anymore—for any reason at all, you can cancel at any time, with no penalty, just return the hardware and you’re all set.

I’m ready to help build the network, how can I sign up?

Great! Just click the link below and fill out your information. It takes less than 30 seconds. Then, we’ll shoot you a message confirming receipt and give you a call with next steps, or answer any other questions you might have.