Wireless@SG enhances login experience and expands operator pool

The free Wi-Fi service is extending automatic login to non-SIM devices, a move which will eliminate the need for usernames and passwords. 

Previously, automatic login to Wireless@SG worked for mobile devices with SIM cards by using the EAP-SIM authentication framework. This login method, which removes the need for usernames and passwords, improves security and allows users to be verified through their SIM cards. This means they get to enjoy seamless automatic connection every time they are near a Wireless@SG hotspot.

Now, users with non-SIM devices – including tablets and laptops – will get to enjoy the same convenience if they download an enhanced Wireless@SG app. The app will guide them through a one-time setup that will only require their NRIC/FIN and mobile numbers. They will then receive an OTP sent via SMS to complete the setup. 

Those who prefer logging in through their browsers every time they need to access Wireless@SG will also find the process more streamlined. They only need to enter their mobile numbers to receive an OTP to complete the login process.

Currently, about 90 per cent of Wireless@SG users already enjoy automatic login using their mobile devices. IMDA expects the enhancements to benefit at least 180,000 users who have been using tablets and laptops to access Wireless@SG.

Wireless@SG is welcoming broadband service provider MyRepublic to join its pool of operators offering the free Wi-Fi service. MyRepublic is the fifth addition to the group comprising M1, SingTel, StarHub and Y5ZONE.

“A digital economy needs pervasive connectivity that is fast, reliable and secure, and Wireless@SG is one of the projects that will help IMDA realise this vision. We are pleased to welcome a fifth operator on board, and we expect this would help us to deploy more hotspots more quickly in our effort to expand the Wireless@SG network,” IMDA Chief Executive Tan Kiat How said.

"Access to fast, reliable public Wi-Fi is essential to Singapore's progress as a Smart Nation. We are excited to be appointed a Wireless@SG operator and look forward to working with IMDA to deploy and improve Wireless@SG hotspots across Singapore," MyRepublic Singapore Managing Director Yap Yong Teck said.

Wireless@SG was launched in December 2006 with 900 hotspots running at a max speed of 512kbps. Today, there are 10,000 hotspots running at 5Mbps, and these hotspots can be found in public spaces like train stations, libraries, shopping malls and restaurants. IMDA is on track to double its network of hotspots to 20,000 by 2018, reaching more locations such as public hospitals, hawker centres and government service centres.