NYCwireless is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides education about emerging wireless technologies and advocates the development of unlicensed wireless infrastructure in the New York metropolitan area. Founded in 2001, NYCwireless has helped individuals and non-profit organizations deploy open public Wi-Fi networks throughout the five boroughs of New York City, and in surrounding counties in New York and New Jersey.

NYCwireless is a volunteer-run organization, drawing upon the energy and spirit of New Yorkers seeking to create a better environment by helping their neighbors. We draw upon a diverse cross-section of the New York City population, including technologists, business people, public officials and artists.

Our work has three main objectives:

• To educate the public about unlicensed wireless technologies. This includes not just technical expertise and literacy, but understanding of the potential for social and economic development through proper application of unlicensed technology. Currently, we are focusing much of our effort on education regarding security on wireless networks, and spectrum policy reform.

• To advocate the development of open public wireless networks. NYCwireless volunteers have spoken at hundreds of events since 2001 to spread the gospel of open public wireless infrastructure. Perhaps more importantly, we have helped individuals and non-profit organizations deploy open wireless networks at over 500 locations in the New York metropolitan area, including 10 high-profile parks and plazas in Manhattan.

• To provide a forum for discussion about the future of wireless technology. All too often, debates about the future of technology are closed to non-experts and grassroots voices. Through our public meetings and online forums, we provide one of the richest online communities for discussions about the future of wireless technology, and how that technology can be shaped for social good.


Most recently, we have begun an effort to translate our online materials from English into Spanish and Mandarin Chinese in order to reach a larger, non-English speaking audience.

NYCwireless was founded in 2001 as a user group for individuals interested in wireless technology. Monthly public meetings, which continue to this day, were organized to facilitate training, education, and discussion. Following the September 11 attacks, a surge of interest in public service helped us expand our activities. In April 2002 we formed a corporation to formalize our existence. During the summer and fall of 2002 we received international attention for our work creating the Bryant Park Wireless Network. In 2003, we continued to expand our programs working with individuals and other non-profits to provide free wireless infrastructure throughout the city. Finally, in early 2004, we received designation as a charity from the U.S. federal government, and have embarked on a major fund-raising campaign and expanded set of activities. NYCwireless’ 7-member Board of Directors represents a diverse crosssection of New York City’s residents. Current board members are Anthony Townsend (Executive Director), Jacob Farkas, Dustin Goodwin, Joe Plotkin, Ben Serebin, Terry Schmidt, and Dana Spiegel. The people participating come from all walks of life—business, technology, education, NGOs, the arts, etc. Participation is very open, and we actively reach out to recruit new volunteers.