Wireless Ad Hoc Networks: Understanding Chaotic Communication Infrastructure

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Infrastructures are commonly conceptualized as large-scale projects created and developed by governments (e.g., when they build roads) or other large enterprises (e.g., when they build large systems for telecommunications). Historically, rural co-operatives also built roads and farmers were known to develop their own phones --although not very good ones. This project analyzes the development of wireless ad hoc Internet services to determine whether or not a decentralized communication infrastructure is a viable alternative to centrally developed systems. Specifically, "Wi-Fi" technology (also known as 802.11 networking) will be studied. The project will measure the spread of disorganized ad hoc Internet services in two neighborhoods, distinguished by their socio-economic status, in a mid-western city. The "Wi-Fi" networks will be mapped to record their spread and coverage over time. This project will elucidate the role of amateurs and cooperatives in the creation of communication systems, and will contribute to theories of communication infrastructure development and the comprehensible visualization of technical phenomenon. It has direct application to communication policy, and will support the cross-training of students in engineering and the social sciences.