A wireless user group (WUG) is a wireless community network run by enthusiasts. Most run off the shelf Wi-Fi hardware communicating in the license free ISM bands 2.4 GHz/5.8 GHz. Some do not provide Internet access, but are mainly used to participate in internet games while avoiding data charges from the landline internet providers. Others do provide Internet access, as with the SoCalFreeNet, a group of 802.11 enthusiasts that provides low income communities in California with free wireless access.
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The term Wireless User Group may also be used to describe an organization that helps exchange information about wireless networking. Important in the developed world, the subject is of critical importance in countries where there is no landline infrastructure.
Sample Enthusiast Groups
There are many more enthusiast groups around the world exploring the technology and its applications (See List of wireless community networks by region).