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Connecting to the Network

PCW's free Wi-Fi is available in the areas shown on our network map. To ask about getting coverage for your building, see Get connected on our main site.

Connect

You can connect to PCW’s free Wi-Fi the same as any other Wi-Fi network.

  • Go to your device’s Wi-Fi settings
  • Browse the list of available Wi-Fi networks for “Philly Community Wireless”
  • Select “Philly Community Wireless” and click “connect”.

Streaming devices and smart TVs (Chromecast, Roku, Firestick, etc.) may not work consistently on the public network. See Configure IoT Devices for a network set up for them.

If you can't connect

  • You don't see “Philly Community Wireless” in the list. Check the network map to make sure you're in a coverage area. Wi-Fi signals weaken as they pass through walls, so try moving closer to a window or to where the access point is mounted.
  • You're connected, but pages won't load. Turn your device's Wi-Fi off and back on. If that doesn't work, “forget” the network in your Wi-Fi settings, then connect to it again.
  • It still isn't working. Email us at info@phillycommunitywireless.org. Tell us where you are (an address or nearest intersection), what device you're using, and what happens when you try to connect.

Using public Wi-Fi safely

Like any public Wi-Fi network, PCW's network is shared with other people nearby. When you enter passwords or personal information, check that the website's address starts with https:// (most browsers show a padlock icon next to it).