---

Madison Marquette and the City of Asbury Park announced in a 4 p.m. news release that they have launched a free public Wi-Fi network accessible to all along its beaches and boardwalk.

Testing for the new network began in October 2016, according to the written statement.

“Our new wireless network brings much-desired connectivity to residents and visitors, giving them more freedom to enjoy our wonderful beaches,” said Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn. “This Wi-Fi access means residents and visitors don’t have to choose between a day at the boardwalk and getting their work done – or keeping tabs on their favorite team.

The Asbury Park Boardwalk (www.APBoardwalk.com) Wi-Fi network will extend continuously over 10 city blocks, from the beginning of the boardwalk on Asbury Avenue to the end of the boardwalk on Deal Lake Drive. It will also reach some areas to within 50 feet of the water’s edge. Coverage also will run nearly a mile, making it one of the largest continuous free outdoor public wireless beach networks in New Jersey, officials said.

To connect, find “AP Boardwalk” on your device’s wireless network list and follow the one-step prompt. An email will be sent for connectivity. Connectivity can also me done via social media apps like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, or Twitter.

“Combining the passion of private supporters with the expertise of City agencies and local community members has allowed us to provide pioneering public services like this initiative,” Quinn said. “We are very grateful to the Madison Marquette for their commitment to this collaborative model and dedication to help make Asbury Park a truly 21st-Century city.”

The free network was funded through a 2010 developer’s agreement between the city and the boardwalk redeveloper, who footed the bill at a maximum cost of $45,000.

“In 2017 being successful requires being connected, and internet access is critical to Asbury Park’s digital future,” said Peter Tomai, Managing Director, Investments, Madison Marquette. “Today’s announcement will encourage growth through Wi-Fi technology innovation and therefore economic opportunity for the city. This historic public Wi-Fi partnership in Asbury Park shows other communities that it is possible to unite to strengthen the community as it attracts more visitors than ever before.”

Slice Wireless Solutions was contracted to install an enterprise grade solution that can easily expand and support Asbury Park’s growing requirements.

“It is an honor to work with Madison Marquette and the City of Asbury Park to be a part of history,” said Jo-Anne Dressendofer, Vice President of Slice Wireless Solutions. “They join other seaside resorts as one of the first in offering this free digital resource to the visitors and residents of Asbury Park.”

“As security was an important issue, the Wi-Fi features having an Https system which allows the secure exchange of files. AP Boardwalk Wi-Fi has taken the extra step to have users sign in each time, and automatically logs you out in 24-hours.”

Tips for surfing safe on public Wi-Fi:

AP Boardwalk public Wi-Fi was designed with security as a top priority for users, but some precautions should still be taken when using any public Wi-Fi network. Just surfing the web will put you at less of a risk for ID theft, but anything that requires inputting a password or personal information could be risky over an unsecured connection.

• Choose Https Over Http– There is an easy way to tell if you are using a secure website. Look up at the web address and see if it begins with http or https. That little ‘s’ tacked onto the end means extra security for you. AP Boardwalk Wi-Fi is https.
• Log Out of Accounts– When you finish using an account, log out. Staying logged into accounts when using unsecured Wi-Fi could potentially allow hackers or ID thieves to access the information inside. An easy solution: stop using automatic log-ins and log yourself in and out each time you need to access an account. AP Boardwalk Wi-Fi has users sign in each time and automatically logs you out in 24-hours.
• Stay Updated– Malware, viruses, and other dangers to your computer can be waiting for an unsuspecting Wi-Fi user so they can attack. Anti-virus software and the latest updates on your computer and firewall are essential. Before using an unknown Wi-Fi connection make sure your computer is up to date. If you’re prompted to install an update over a Wi-Fi connection, make sure you trust the source.

——————————————————

Follow the Asbury Park Sun on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Asbury Park Sun is affiliated with the triCityNews newspaper.

---