Wireless User Groups (aka WUGs) continue to grow across the country through their free, unlimited access value proposition.

These non-profit community networks can be seen as very large wireless (Wi-Fi) LANs which connect users to each other to share information, game, chat and related activities.

While the WUGs do not offer Internet access, they are a valuable platform because they provides free, fast and unlimited connectivity to other networked users.

The Pretoria Wireless User Group’s (PTAWUG) network currently stretches from Hammanskraal in the north to Midrand in the South, and from Brits in the west to Rietvleidam in the east.

The PTAWUG operates 122 high sites through which close to 2,000 members connect and interact.

55 of the core network links make use of 802.11n network equipment to ensure the highest possible performance.

PTAWUG co-founder Dawie Joubert (aka protzkrog) said that the network growth to Brits and Hartebeespoortdam and Brits was very successful, and that they will construct another backbone link to improve redundancy to these outlying areas.

Joubert said that they are also planning to extend the network to Rustenburg as part of the initiative to continually grow and improve the network.

The Cape Town User Group (CTWUG) is showing equally impressive growth. It is currently operating 208 high sites to which 740 users connect.

A large part of the Cape region is covered, including Tableview, Wynberg, Muizenberg, Gordons Bay, Strand, Stellenbosch, Durbanville, Welgemoed, Fishoek, Noordhoek, Kommetjie and Houtbaai.

Francois Steyn (aka TFyre) said that they have streamlined their network growth and traffic management on the network.

“We are running specialized scripts to easily add new high sites, and also to ensure quality of service for gaming during peak hours to ensure that bulk traffic does not influence latency,” said Steyn.

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