The Wireless Washtenaw network will offer a secure, encrypted connection to the Internet when the Consumer Premise Equipment (CPE) is utilized. The CPE works as a bridge between a computer and a broadcasting point and has the capability of securing data transmissions.

However, there is no direct encryption (for the 2.4 GHz signal) when utilized in a roaming capacity. This includes anytime the network is used without a CPE, such as at a park or café. Users will be still able to utilize Secure Socket Layer (or SSL), which is an encryption program used for Web browsing, e-mail and other types of data transfer. Most financial and commercial institutions use SSL to protect sensitive information during data transfers, such as log-in credentials and credit card numbers. You can tell if you are on an SSL website by looking for a security lock on your Web browser. You will also see “https” as opposed to “http” at the beginning of the Web address. Users who require more security than SSL will be able to use a Virtual Private Network if they so desire.

The affects of radio frequency waves have been a topic of discussion for some time. Radio waves have been delivering audio and video content to the general population for the last half-century. Today, many devices broadcast radio waves, including cell phones, microwave ovens, bluetooth headsets and wireless-fidelity (or Wi-Fi) networks. Signals from all these devices surround us as we perform our simplest daily activities.

There is no conclusive proof that radio frequency waves adversely affect the human body. The Federal Communications Commission and Food and Drug Administration, as well as other global organizations including the World Health Organization, have used the latest and most accurate information to help set safety standards around the use of wireless technology.

It should be noted that many of the studies to date have focused on cell phone technology and not Wi-Fi. Due to greater distances between Wi-Fi radios and people, the net impact of Wi-Fi is typically 1/10,000th of a cell phone.

In terms of Wireless Washtenaw, the project team requires 20/20 Communications to comply with all state and federal regulations surrounding the use of radio frequency technology.