Frequently Asked Questions

What is WinstonNet, Inc.?
WinstonNet, Inc. is a non-profit (501c3) community technology initiative established in 2001. Building a connected community is the shared vision of its members with a strong emphasis placed on "bridging the digital divide" that currently exists in the Winston-Salem and Forsyth County communities. Striving to be a prototype for the nation, WinstonNet is employing cutting edge technology throughout Forsyth County to set the standard for ubiquitous computing for the nation. (Members include: City of Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, Forsyth Technical Community College, North Carolina School of the Arts, Salem College and Academy, Wake Forest University, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce).

What has WinstonNet done in the community?

• Is the first regional network in North Carolina to bring ultra high speed networks such as Internet2 to the community.
• With the collaborative effort of its members, WinstonNet has established 44 computer centers throughout Forsyth County. Each center offers free high speed access to the Internet, the latest Microsoft Office software, free email accounts and file storage space for portability between centers. Computer skills' training is provided at many of the centers - all free.
• Another project underway is “The WinstonNet Beehive”. This is a web portal that provides quality information on important areas affecting our community, such as health, schools, jobs, finances, family, government, etc. This portal also provides information on how to access local services. The Beehive is written at a fifth grade reading level and totally translated into Spanish. WinstonNet expects to launch this project sometime in late spring 2006.

What is a Wi-Fi or a Wireless Fidelity system?
Wi-Fi is a radio technology standard that lets computers connect to each other and to access point radios that can be connected to the internet. Because Wi-Fi is an open standard with many competing manufacturers, it is quickly becoming the least expensive way to provide access to the internet.

Who will benefit from a Wi-Fi network?
Residents, businesses, students, visitors, schools, universities, colleges, and City and County employees will all benefit from widespread, mobile access to the internet. Anyone with a laptop, game system, or phone that has wi-fi will be able to connect throughout the City. Businesses will be able to get higher speed business quality connections as well.

How will the Wi-Fi system be installed?
The system will be built using poles, buildings, towers, and other locales to mount the radios.

Is this project competing unfairly with the private sector?
No, involvement in this project is open to all private parties. The project is a new business opportunity.

Is wireless broadband secure? Is it reliable?
Wireless broadband can be just as secure as any other type of internet access. This security can be maintained through numerous, publicly available tools like firewalls, authentication, data encryption, and other means. Wireless broadband is a reliable means of accessing the internet. However, like other radio based communications, including cellular, there can be occasional service issues.

Will Wi-Fi be obsolete in a couple of years?
No, Wi-Fi was originally designed to be wireless Ethernet. The Ethernet standard has continued to evolve but has always been backwards compatible. While the future is impossible to predict, experts believe Wi-Fi will be around for some time and already enjoys backwards compatibility. To protect against obsolescence, WinstonNet expects that the winning bidder will budget money annually for “technology refresh” to keep the network current

Will WinstonNet own or operate the wireless network?
No, WinstonNet is seeking a private vendor to own and operate the network.