Westminster City Council has begun a trial of the OpenRoaming network and single sign-on for public Wi-Fi services, saying it is the first local authority in the country to do so.
It has made Connected London Wi-Fi available to help users maintain their connections when moving between different network areas without having to log in again.
They obtain access through scanning a QR code and following the instructions to install a profile on a smartphone or tablet computer. The device will then automatically connect securely to the OpenRoaming network across Westminster.
The credential is anonymised and not linked to any personal identifiable information.
The network is hosted by the Wireless Broadband Alliance and includes a wide range of hotspots, including public libraries, housing and regeneration offices, street markets and other sites.
London expansion
Westminster said that, if the trial is successful, there will be efforts to expand the network across London, working with other Wi-Fi network providers.
There will also be efforts to develop an alternative approach to the QR code.
The initiative is taking place in collaboration with the Greater London Authority and wireless technology provider Guglielmo.
Cllr Geoff Barraclough, Westminster’s cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: “Every one of us has struggled to get high speed mobile connections in central London, especially in busy areas such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden. That’s why so many people rely on using public space Wi-Fi but this can be fiddly and difficult to log in to.
“Westminster Council is proud to be the first council in the UK to launch a single sign-on Wi-Fi network spanning multiple operators. Workers, tourists and Londoners will all benefit from easier connections to faster mobile broadband.
“Connected London Wi-Fi offers free, seamless internet connectivity for people moving around the city. With the continued support from the Mayor of London - and potentially other London boroughs. We hope to roll out this Wi-Fi network across the whole of London, and potentially beyond.”
Improving digital access
Howard Dawber, deputy mayor of London for business and growth, said: “Connected London Wi-Fi is a vital step forward in our work to improve digital access across the capital, which has seen a massive jump in gigabit connectivity to homes and businesses, as we continue building a fairer and better London for everyone.”
