01.11.00 CONSUME.NET Press Release 001->

"trip the loop, make your switch, consume the net"

Fed up with the high cost of internet access and network installation? Want to explore the promise of Broadband ? Looking for a flexible, future proof and cost effective solution to local network needs ?

Now with CONSUME everyone can build the new network.

CONSUME are building a PILOT network in London EC2 right now, using off the shelf and license free wireless network technology (802.11) and developing free software to run in your obsolete desktop PC to manage the connections.

Recently founded by James Stevens (slacktivist - spc.org) and Julian Priest (director - mediumrare.net) with the aim is to develop a blueprint for a user constructed public access broadband network.

CONSUME is now a fast growing membership (currently in the hundreds) an eclectic, not-for-profit allience, a coagulation of technical directors, top-level security and network experts (see hackers, geeks), digital media creatives and cultural activists.

The documentation for use and details of development of the network is being presented in the public domain via the website and will remain available to all. The legal framework a 'public peering license' between network nodes, will assert conditions for inclusion and guidelines for its use.

Local loop is the often national telecom owned connection between you the Internet, it is slow despite recent promiotion of DSL connections and in the hands of profit seekers.

Anyone can become involved and help build a new network in the true spirit of the internet, go on take a liberty.

For more information see http://consume.net and contact "James Stevens"mailto:james@spc.org">james@spc.org> or "Julian Priest" <julian@mediumrare.net>

There's an FAQ on the site.. consume-generalfaq.html

Pictures available from Dan Tuffs 0831 439738

Also see whats being said by:

The Ecconomist
LinuxUser
Salon.com
Wall Street Journal
Slashdot again...
www.guardianunlimited.co.uk
http://www.wired.com/news/
http://slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=00/
http://www.ntk.net
"trip the loop, make your switch, consume the net"