NTA issues strict warning to ISPs over unauthorized Wi-Fi hotspots, threatens action
साउन १२, २०८२ ११:३०
Kathmandu: The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) has issued a stern warning to internet service providers (ISPs) operating Wi-Fi hotspots in violation of the law. The Authority has said that it will take action against service providers found breaching the provisions of the Hotspot Operation Regulations, 2075 BS.
According to the NTA, only providers licensed for basic telecommunications services, mobile telephone services, and basic telephone services are authorized to offer seamless connectivity, roaming, and mobility through Wi-Fi. Other licensed service providers must operate Wi-Fi hotspots strictly in line with the conditions outlined in the 2075 regulations.
At present, only Nepal Telecom holds a license for basic telecommunications services. Nepal Telecom and Ncell are licensed for mobile telephone services, while United Telecom Limited (UTL) is licensed for basic telephone services.
The regulations define specific areas or perimeters where Wi-Fi hotspots can be operated, as per Sections 2(e) and 2(f). Regulation 5(1) also requires Wi-Fi access to be limited to a fixed duration or data volume per login. However, the NTA has stated that some providers have been flouting these provisions.
The Authority has further instructed providers to follow conditions related to power limits and backhaul/backbone restrictions under Section 7.4, Schedule 4 of the Radio Frequency (Allocation and Pricing) Policy of Telecommunications Services, 2080. These rules were set by the Radio Frequency Policy Determination Committee. ISPs have also been told to use only type-approved radio equipment.
WorldLink, Nepal’s largest ISP, operates the country’s most extensive public Wi-Fi network. Under the name ‘Wi-Fi Express’, WorldLink has deployed over 14,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide.
Top NTA officials, including Chairman Bhupendra Bhandari, have been urging providers like WorldLink to immediately stop operating unauthorized hotspots that violate regulatory guidelines.
पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: साउन १२, २०८२ ११:३०
