Neighborcoms

Neighborcoms are community networks that connect households in a neighborhood through a local network, often using a combination of infrastructure such as homemade antennas, radio transmitters, and CPE (Customer Premises Equipment) or wireless routers. These networks allow users to access the internet, share data, and communicate with one another using a variety of methods, including wireless and wired connections.

The concept of neighborcoms began in the early 2000s, as communities of users banded together to create local internet networks, initially using the TAPR-DVB system and other hardware and software platforms. Since then, the technology and organization of neighborcoms have evolved significantly, with the development of new networking methods and protocols.

Some of the benefits of neighborcoms include increased internet access and reliability, especially in areas where traditional internet services are slow or unavailable. Neighborcoms can also provide an alternative to commercial internet services, offering lower costs and a greater sense of community. In addition, neighborcoms can serve as demonstrators of open-source and community-driven technology, promoting the sharing of knowledge and resources within the network.

While neighborcoms can present technological and organizational challenges, many successful examples exist around the world. In some countries, they have become a viable alternative to commercial internet services, highlighting the potential for community networks to provide reliable and inclusive access to the internet.