In an unusual twist, Top Global has introduced a Wi-Fi router/gateway that uses 3G EVDO wireless as a backhaul, for rural areas without access to a wired ISP. Via [extremetech.com]

3Com this week is expanding its wireless portfolio with a new wireless LAN switch and access point aimed at branch offices. Via [crn.com]

There will be over 100,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots globally by the end of this year, with Europe and North America beginning to challenge the Asia-Pacific region’s early dominance, according to market research from Informa Telecoms & Media. Via [eet.com]

SkyPilot Networks Inc. is moving broadband mesh into public safety networks by adding 4.9-GHz licensed bands to its product line. The SkyExtender DualBand is a mesh backhaul product supporting both 802.11b/g access services and 4.9-GHz public-safety radio. Via [commsdesign.com]

Hundreds of local governments are building wireless networks-- but the telecom industry has taken issue. Via [informationweek.com]

Wireless access to the Internet via Wi-Fi is increasingly popular, so the technology is being upgraded to ensure that users get prompt, reliable service. Via [sciam.com]

With over 150 base stations, the largest Wi-Fi network over in Finland, Wivanet, is to close by Q1 2006. Vantaa Energy has decided to stop maintaining the network. Via [theinquirer.net]

Here in an area spanning 700 square miles, site of a vast wireless Internet cloud, onion farmer Bob Hale can prop open a laptop among the scrub brush and check his e-mail. Via [seattletimes.nwsource.com]

Wireless technology provider Qualcomm Inc. has announced that its Mobile Station Modem chipsets will support Philips' wireless local area network (WLAN) module. Via [commsdesign.com]

Cisco Systems has ploughed an unspecific amount of funding into WiFi-based RFID system maker AeroScout. Via [cbronline.com]

VoIP over WiFi networks, like the one now being implemented in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, could soon spread like wildfire to other municipalities, attendees at the VON Fall 2005 conference in Boston were told. Via [informationweek.com]

Launched at a London advertising technology conference, the company is signing up advertisers who want to target free users, who will have access at hotspots such as hotels, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Via [computerweekly.com]

Intel Corp., the world's largest microchip maker, said on Thursday it expected to implement trials of the emerging wireless broadband technology called "WiMax" in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines by year-end. Via [today.reuters.co.uk]

Companies are deploying VoIP services without fully considering the security implications, which is exactly what happened with early wireless network implementations, according to security experts. Via [zdnet.com.au]

In tests, the system provided uninterrupted access at speeds as high as 137 miles per hour. Via [informationweek.com]