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Free Public Wi-Fi in Napa Valley? FCC Proposal Could Pit Google Against Cell Carriers

The federal government wants to bring fast, powerful—and free—Internet connections to communities across the nation.

The Federal Communications Commission has proposed a plan that would create super Wi-Fi networks all around the country—and threaten the viability of big-name cell-phone carriers and Internet providers.

But not all tech companies are against the FCC's plan. Microsoft and Mountain View-based Google are spending top dollars to lobby in support of the plan, according to a report in The Washington Post, because they believe free Wi-Fi would help drive further innovation and provide a market for more gadgets.

Cellular carriers are not as supportive. The Post reports that the FCC wants to buy airwaves that are more powerful than a typical household Wi-Fi connection, making it possible that people could opt out of traditional cell phone coverage and home Internet service.

Find out what's happening in Napa Valleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Information was not immediately available Thursday on whether Napa Valley has free public wi-fi, or if it is being planned. A Patch blogger, has sampled numerous "hot spots" at cafes and restaurants but has made no mention of free city-sponsored wi-fi.

[Ed. Note: If you have information about free public wi-fi in Napa, please add it in the comments].

Find out what's happening in Napa Valleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Even if it's approved by the FCC, The Post says the new network would still take several years to implement. And it's unclear how reliable the connection would be in urban areas, where many people might be using the free Wi-Fi system at the same time.

Do you think government-provided Wi-Fi would be good for Napa Valley? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments section below.

 

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