Time Warner Cable launches Hotspot 2.0: Log in once, then never again

Surprise: TWC wants to build a 1Gbps fiber network after Los Angeles threatens to build its own

It looks like Time Warner Cable just simplified the Wi-Fi hotspot once and for all. Gigaom reports that Time Warner enabled Hotspot 2.0 capabilities across its public Wi-Fi network this week, allowing customers to log in a single time and then remain connected any time their devices pick up a signal in the future. The upgraded software has been available to broadband customers since March, but this marks the first large-scale implementation of the software.

The goal is to give Time Warner customers access to the Internet anywhere they go. Not only will customers be able to avoid those pesky login screens, but the connection will be encrypted using WPA2 security. “This was a good opportunity to get a secure connection to our customers,” said VP of Wireless Products Rob Cerbone.

When asked whether or not the company might consider expanding to become a “Wi-Fi first” mobile carrier, Cerbone said that Time Warner is content with its Verizon Wireless partnership and its increasing usefulness to mobile device owners that already subscribe to independent carriers with “Wi-Fi first” plans.

If you’re wondering whether or not your phone or tablet will be compatible with the network, you can check the full list of certified products here.

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This article was originally published on BGR.com

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