Bridge to the Internet Logo

FAQ

What is Bridge to the Internet?

Bridge to the Internet is a router image that hosts network bandwidth saving services and robust local area communication applications that activate local area networks to strengthen connection within a local community. With the internet under heavy strain due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes clear that we must maximize our network resources and look for alternatives to internet-based communication.

Why do we need to think about internet infrastructure?

The internet is increasingly important for daily life. We depend on it to access information, eduation, work, governance, communication, entertainment, and telehealth. The internet infrastructure is exceedingly complex and we depend on telecommunications companies to set up our infrastructure, and the average internet user is left in the dark about how it works and why. By learning more about how our networks work we can minimize harm caused by platforms on the internet, and build stronger communities by considering the internet as a resource for public good.

What services does Bridge provide?

It implements, in a single device, a wireless access point, a web-cache server, a DNS sinkhole server, and an intranet web server that hosts resilient communication applications that allow peers to communicate over Wi-Fi if direct communication is not possible and when the internet is inaccessible. The web cache server is configured with Squid. The DNS sinkhole server is set up with Pi-Hole. The local web server runs with Node Express.

What do you need for Bridge?

Bridge requires minimal hardware. You will need a Raspberry Pi with onboard Wi-fi and Ethernet, model 3B+ or 4B, an ethernet cable, micro sd card, access to an internet router, and power supply.

Ultimately, Bridge to the Internet seeks to educate about network infrastructure and begin a conversation about the internet's role in local communities to reimagine the sharing of network resources.

How do I set it up?

Set up instructions for Bridge can be found here.

Who is it meant for?

Bridge to the Internet is created as an educational platform to learn more about internet infrastructure. It is made for hobbyists and makers to easily setup a local area network with network services running that speeds up network performance. Makers can learn about network topology while others can simply benefit from better internet speed and online advertisements blocked. Also local area peers can communicate over WiFi if internet connection is sporadic and face to face communication is not possible.