Chapel Hill Technology Advisory Committee

["Brian Russell" <brussell AT ibiblio.org>]

Google plans own WiFi service - Reuters
http://tinyurl.com/a7agb

Blogs are a buzz about a new rumor of Google providing WiFi as well as
secure access to it. Some report seeing a page on google's site only for
it to disapear. Consider this all tenuous at best. BUT if the rumors are
true then LARGEST media/information company in the world, Google, could
RADICALLY alter the nature of public access to the Internet.

Google is known for it's easy to use software. Imagine a easy to use tool
that could make access to WiFi networks "safe"!

Here is the FAQ supposedly copied from the site. Again this is speculation
but exciting none the less. :)

-Brian

What is Google Secure Access?

Google Secure Access is a downloadable client application that allows
users to establish a more secure WiFi connection.

Why would I want to download and install Google Secure Access?

Google Secure Access allows you to establish a more secure connection
while using Google WiFi. By using Google Secure Access, your internet
traffic will be encrypted, preventing others from viewing the information
you transmit.

Does Google Secure Access connect to a VPN server?

Yes, Google Secure Access connects to Google's VPN ("Virtual Private
Network") server provided for this service.

Why did Google develop Google Secure Access?

One of our engineers recognized that secure WiFi was virtually
non-existent at most locations. As a result, he used his 20% project time
to begin an initiative to offer users more secure WiFi access. Google
Secure Access is the result of this endeavor.

What sort of information does Google have access to?

If you choose to use Google Secure Access, your internet traffic will be
encrypted and sent through Google's servers to the Internet. The data that
is received will then be encrypted and sent back through our servers to
your computer. Your privacy is important to us, we strongly encourage you
to read our Privacy Policy to be fully informed about how your privacy is
protected.

Is there a fee for using Google Secure Access?

No, Google Secure Access is free.

Where can I go to download Google Secure Access?

The program can currently be downloaded at certain Google WiFi locations
in the San Francisco Bay Area.

When I install Google Secure Access, why does it ask if I also want to
install the Google Toolbar?

We've included the option to install the Google Toolbar because it
improves your browsing experience.

Can I uninstall Google Secure Access?

Yes. You can uninstall Google Secure Access by simply running the
Uninstall program. This can be found by clicking on Start Menu, Programs,
Google Secure Access, and then choosing Uninstall.

How do I make my connection even more secure?

You can make your connection even more secure by using a software
firewall. Windows XP users with Service Pack 2 can find it by clicking on
Start, Control Panel, and then choosing Windows Firewall.

Will my corporate VPN still work?

Yes. You can connect to your corporate VPN while running Google Secure
Access.

I have configured Google Secure Access to connect automatically, but it's
not working. What's going on?

Certain wireless LAN management utilities and older wireless LAN adapter
drivers prevent Google Secure Access from detecting that you're connected
to the Google WiFi network. In this case it will not connect
automatically, and you should connect manually to ensure the privacy and
security of your network traffic.

Will Google Secure Access work at other locations?

While Google Secure Access should work, we have not tested it at other
locations.

Why is Google Secure Access a beta product?

Google Secure Access is a new product that is only available at certain
locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. We are constantly working to
improve this product.