Sydney gets increased wireless access

Over one million Sydneysiders now have access to wireless internet, thanks to the expansion of the Unwired network announced today.

David Spence, chief executive at Unwired, said: "Initial customer feedback is also showing a high level of satisfaction ... because it's very affordable, easy to install, simple to use and provides super fast internet access without the need for a phone line -- its portability will also allow it to be used across Sydney."

Unwired currently covers 700 square kilometres, which it claims makes it the world's largest commercial non-line-of-sight broadband wireless access network in terms of coverage and capacity. The network is expected to reach completion by the end of August.

The Unwired network uses an independent network of towers similar to those used by the mobile phone industry.

Rather than adhere to the 802.11 Wi-Fi standard, Unwired modems use a proprietary technology that increases the range, allowing customers to connect up to 10 kms from a tower.