Hughes Launches Satellite WiFi

GERMANTOWN, Md. -- Hughes Network Systems (HNS), the world’s leading provider of satellite broadband solutions, which it markets under the DIRECWAY® brand, announced today that it is offering a new Wi-Fi solution to leisure travelers for secure, easy-to-use, wireless high-speed Internet access. Wi-Fi Access will initially be targeted at the national RV park and resort market segment as a value-added service opportunity by selected providers.

“HNS is addressing the increasing demand placed on RV park and resort owners to provide Internet amenities and services that allow their customers to stay connected through high-speed access. Wi-Fi Access, available through specialized wireless service operators, provides RV park and resort owners with easy to implement, value-added services that differentiate their locations from those of others while building customer loyalty,” said James Gandolfi, senior vice president and general manager, HNS San Diego. “In addition, because our end-to-end solution utilizes our nationwide DIRECWAY broadband satellite service, we’re able to provide pervasive coverage across the entire continental U.S., with several tiers of service based on the preferences of each site and its customers.”

Today, most RV travelers rely on a dial-up connection or dedicated modem found in the common area of an RV park or resort for Internet access. Wi-Fi Access allows RV travelers to connect directly to the Internet from the comfort and convenience of their motor homes, using laptops or PDA’s enabled with industry standard Wi-Fi® capabilities.

Combining several HNS technologies, Wi-Fi Access offers a turn-key Wi-Fi hot spot solution, including the ability for travelers to self-subscribe for the service at participating RV parks and resorts. HNS has developed a robust, scalable back office solution for service provisioning, customer management, and network monitoring, which assures quality service and a satisfying user experience. The complete system is supported by the HNS National Installation and Maintenance Organization and Carrier Grade Network Operations Center.

Hughes Network Systems Inc.