Questions?

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​What is the hotspot and how does it work?

 

The hotspot is a small hardware device that creates a large wireless network for devices that use The Helium network. Think of it like a Wi-Fi router, but for devices sending small amounts of data over long ranges. These devices are part of what's usually called the IoT — or the “Internet of Things.”

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Common IoT devices that can benefit and actually use our network are all around you! Got a smart fridge? Yep, we connect that. Do you use a dog collar that helps track where your pet is?

 

 

Will it suck up my internet data or slow down my devices?

 

No. Our hotspots are designed for low-bandwidth devices or devices that use a very minimal amount of data. With over 100 placed throughout New Jersey, we've never received a complaint or issue in terms of internet speeds or slowing down other devices on the host's WiFi networks. On average our hotspots use as much data as any other idle smart device in your home.

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Can I use the hotspot in my own home for my devices?

 

Yes, and no. Hotspots cannot be used as a WiFi router or WiFi hotspot, the network that's being created by the hotspot is for autonomous devices and sensors that simply need the internet to function. If your household has smart devices or smart sensors that are considered a part of the internet of things, like a smart fridge, water leak detector, smart smoke detector, and more; then the answer to Ramon's question is yes. If you want to use a Helium hotspot for entertainment purposes like watching Netflix or Facebook, that is not possible nor what Helium hotspots are designed to be used for.

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Is it safe, secure? Is it going to spy on me or collect my data?

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Yes, yes, no, no. The hotspot is safe, secure and will not spy on you or collect your data. The hotspots do not hold the capabilities to access any other devices on your network nor will they ever hold the ability to do so. We stand by privacy and your safety as a host.