How it works: Advert banners

Banner advertising is a feature of the custom splash page design. Banner advertising is an additional income source for WISPs. Banners also add value for businesses who provide free access, such as hotels.

The user is redirected to the splash page in both the commercial and disclaimer modes. Commercial mode requires an access code to be entered and authenticated before the user is able to access the Internet. Disclaimer mode requires the user to agree to the terms and conditions before being permitted to access the Internet. Disclaimer mode also has the optional feature of a programmable timer that can disconnect the user after a predetermined time. This feature ensures that customers getting free access don't abuse the service and that users see the banners periodically.

WISP advert banners placed on captive portal login page (splash page)

Users can also click on banners to go through directly to an advertisers website via a hyperlink. If the banner URL or IP address is included in the wireless or router node's permitted web address table then the user can access advertisers sites without logging in first.

Banner advertising can supplement the income that WISPs receive from the sale of access codes. Banners work best when sold to businesses that are in close proximity to the hot spot. Each access point and router can have unique banners. The splash page can also be unique for each device if required.

Banner advertising produces good results with free Internet access. Many hotels provide free Internet, but could charge local restaurants and stores who would like to advertise to their guests.