Eircom will roll out 250 wireless "hotspots" across the State by the end of 2005 and make wireless broadband services available in the home later this month.
The firm, which is already offering DSL broadband services over its fixed-line network, said yesterday it was now launching Wi-Fi broadband for home users.
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that enables people to connect to the internet at very high speeds without the need for wired connections to the internet.
Up to now it has been available from a range of telecoms firms at certain "hotspots", typically in hotels and airports across the State.
But Eircom will begin selling a Wi-Fi modem for home users at a cost of €149 (including VAT) in mid-February. This modem will enable customers with Eircom's fixed broadband product, i-stream, to connect to the Web without using a wire connection.
The launch of Eircom's new Wi-Fi service in the home coincides with the company's roll-out of 250 public wireless hotspots in hotels and conference centres.
Eircom currently has about 20 "hotspot" locations including Croke Park, Citywest hotels and Great Southern Hotels. It now plans to extend its "hotspot" network to a further 50 locations within two months and to 250 locations by late 2005.
The cost of Eircom's public Wi-Fi service is €10 per hour or €20 for a 24-hour period.
Alternatively, customers can choose a wireless broadband account at €80 per month for unlimited usage at any Eircom "hotspot".
