Comments on: FAQs

By: admin

admin — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:24:26 +0000

Hi Mark

WAPA does not have a central coverage map. We have a coverage area list which each member maintains on our wiki. Have a look at our member list page or fill in the WAPA contact for with the area you need service in.

By: dablakmark8

dablakmark8 — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:15:30 +0000

Hi lost my broadband internet,there are no internet in the area,could i access a access point and how would i know if there is one in my area to log on to.Where is the map for these checks.

By: Robert Taylor

Robert Taylor — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 18:59:54 +0000

hi i need to know i live in a little town where there is no adsl or even 3g ibroke offered, now i want to put a wisp connected from the closest exchange enabled town using a saix fibre optic connection as the first point of access connected via wi-fi to the next town 30km away to enable the residents to get internet access.

Now what will i need to allow this and is it even legal, we wil obviously charge them a small fee to cover the rental of the saix cable.

By: dominic

dominic — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 04:35:28 +0000

Hi Roelof

In easy terms: a VANS is a licence which allows the holder to run value-added services over a network. A typical example would be where an ISP leases lines from Telkom and offers Internet services to customers over these. Although this is subject to debate it is generally believed that VANS are entitled to install their own network infrastructure (which is part of the typical WISP model where the last mile access links are provided over the ISP’s own infrastructure.

A PTN (Private Telecommunication Network) licence is simply one which allows the holder to establish a closed network between its own offices or branches. A typical example would be where a bank obtains links from a service provider which are dedicated to providing a network between its own branches around the country.

If you are planning to operate a WISP you will generally not require a PTN but a VANS is essential.

Note: Please bear in mind that VANS and PTNs as licence types will soon disappear – ICASA is planning to convert licences and establish the new licence categories under the Electronic Communications Act in November 2008.

By: Roelof

Roelof — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 20:38:17 +0000

What is the difference between a VANS and PTN License and will I be required to apply for both? Is there anything I have to be aware of when filling in these applications?

By: joe

joe — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 10:13:31 +0000

Hi Eric

WAPA is in the process of improving it’s consumer complaints process, but you can complete the contact form on the WAPA website with your complaint at the moment.

Please check that your provider is a WAPA member… then look at the WAPA Constitution and Code of Conduct to see your provider is complying with these documents.

By: Eric

Eric — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 10:24:44 +0000

Who do i speak to about a Wireless ISP that has not been giving the service prosmised?

By: Joe

Joe — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:11:33 +0000

Gideon

Yes. The WAPA community mailing lists are a very good resource for WISPs. You will benefit from legal advice, industry knowledge and shared experience.

Get a VANS license from the start.

As part of the WAPA collective we can self regulate our industry in matters of frequency spectrum management and member or non-member complaints processes.

By: Joe

Joe — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:05:14 +0000

Lluwellyn

My first question would be.. do you want to run a network infrastructure company (ECNS) ?

In my personal opinion you should get a WISP to build the links for you or you should get a VANS license if you want to do it yourself.

By: Gideon

Gideon — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:43:47 +0000

I am investigating starting up a WISP in the Pretoria region. Most of the business case is modelled on Canadain figures. Can WAPA benefit me?