Speakeasy Introduces WiFi NetShare,
Enabling Subscribers to Become Broadband "Resellers"

FOR RELEASE: July 8, 2003

SEATTLE—In yet another move to expand the broadband experience to more individuals, Speakeasy (www.speakeasy.net), the nation's largest independent broadband provider, has introduced WiFi NetShare (www.speakeasy.net/netshare). The first-of-its-kind service allows Speakeasy subscribers to easily (and legally) extend their broadband connectivity to their neighbors via WiFi — all while reducing their monthly broadband bill.

WiFi NetShare enables Speakeasy customers to become WiFi 'administrators,' who can then set up 'wireless zones' within an available perimeter (usually 300-500 feet) of their respective homes or businesses, using any commercially available WiFi equipment. From that point, administrators can promote the WiFi NetShare service to neighbors within the zones and establish a subscription fee for those who elect to become customers. Then, all subsequent registration and customer billing relationships are managed by Speakeasy. WiFi NetShare customers will receive all of Speakeasy's basic services as part of their subscriptions, including email (POP3, IMAP, Web-based), news, dial-up, anti-spam/anti-virus, and music services. In addition, they may purchase additional services such as web hosting or gaming subscriptions. All WiFi NetShare customers will enjoy a risk-free, 14-day trial period.

"Speakeasy is further expanding the broadband community by providing a no-hassle program that empowers our subscribers to share their Speakeasy broadband connections and not penalize them with unnecessary fees and restrictions," says Mike Apgar, Speakeasy's CEO. "We are committed to offering new services, such as WiFi NetShare, to those who want to explore innovative ways of optimizing their broadband connection."

"Approximately 40% of Speakeasy's subscribers already operate home-based WiFi networks (compared to a 3% national average), and many of them already enjoy sharing their connection through our free WiFi sharing policy. The natural next step was to enable them to monetize their zone and become 'broadband evangelists' of sorts," adds Arnaud Gautier, Speakeasy's Director of Product Management.

Here's how it works:

• A Speakeasy subscriber sets up a free WiFi NetShare administrator account by providing basic connectivity and network information through a secure web site.
• The WiFi NetShare administrator chooses a subscription amount (ranging from $20 to $100 per month in set increments) that will eventually be charged to customers who subscribe to the administrator's NetShare network (all billing is handled by Speakeasy's secure payment system).
• The administrator receives 80% [updated 07/06/04] of the collected NetShare subscription fees from their participating customers (amounts are credited to administrator's Speakeasy account).
• Only the administrator needs to be a Speakeasy subscriber — customers can participate simply by using any compatible WiFi card or receiver.
• To ensure account privacy, Speakeasy will handle all customer billing and provide its top-rated customer service for any technical questions. Speakeasy will work with administrators to resolve matters related to circuit connectivity, as well as forward appropriate issues communicated by a NetShare customer.
• Administrators are responsible for some aspects of customer support including initial WiFi setup, signup and basic troubleshooting. Administrators are also responsible for the security and integrity of their shared network. Speakeasy may recommend security measures, but it will not be responsible for enforcing specific WiFi network security measures.

Example: John Smith pays $59.95 per month for his Speakeasy broadband connection. He decides to extend his connection and sets up a WiFi NetShare Administrator account and WiFi "zone." He offers his broadband connection — via WiFi NetShare — to his neighbors at a fee of $30 per month. Four neighbors participate and generate $120 in total customer fees ($30 subscription x 4 households) and are billed for the access independently by Speakeasy. John receives a monthly credit of $96 (80% of $120) [updated 07/06/04] on his Speakeasy account and thus "pays" for his initial broadband connection. In turn, his customers/neighbors experience high-speed broadband for just $30/month.

About Speakeasy
Founded in 1994, Speakeasy is the nation's largest independent broadband service provider. Combining a nationwide network and legendary commitment to customer service with pioneering technologies and product offerings, Speakeasy delivers a superior online experience for discerning individuals and small businesses demanding the high-performance broadband service, free of impractical rules and restrictions. Speakeasy broadband is available in most metropolitan areas within the 48 contiguous states. Those interested in Speakeasy's broadband service can visit www.speakeasy.net or call customer service at 1.800.556.5829 (24 hours a day, seven days a week).

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