FAQ generated from conversation about TollGate
What is TollGate?
TollGate is an open-source project that enables anyone to become a permission-less internet service provider by reselling their internet connection for Bitcoin through WiFi.
How does it work?
- Users can buy internet access for as little as 1 SAT without requiring:
- SIM cards
- Identity verification (KYC)
- Contracts
- TollGate operators can resell their internet connection at a markup
- Multiple operators can compete in the same area, creating a competitive market
- Supports using different internet sources simultaneously for increased speed
What are the key benefits?
- Permission-less internet access without identity requirements
- Pay-as-you-go model with minimal amounts (1 SAT)
- Potential cost savings through shared connections
- Ability to earn Bitcoin by reselling internet access
- Increased censorship resistance
- Enhanced privacy through e-cash support
What are some potential use cases?
- Neighbourhood internet sharing
- Example: 10 apartments sharing a Starlink connection
- Cost savings for users
- Income generation for operators
- Node runners providing anonymous internet access
- Dense urban areas with multiple competing operators
- Areas needing censorship-resistant internet access
What about privacy and security?
- Supports e-cash for enhanced privacy
- Recommended to use VPN for additional security
- Data should be encrypted before leaving devices
- Users can run their own VPN on their TollGate
- Separate hardware is recommended for high-value devices (like Lightning nodes)
Technical aspects
- Speed depends on the source internet connection(s)
- Can combine multiple internet sources for increased bandwidth
- Future compatibility with existing node runner hardware
- Supports VPN integration
- Open-source solution without a moat
Current status
- Project is in development
- New architecture being implemented
- Working demos achieved
- Aiming for broader user on-boarding
- Documentation is being updated