What is skyMOM?

skyMOM is Management and Operations Monitoring software that runs in the computer at the skyPOP (the "head-end" of the local skyCAPS service, where the Internet "point of presence is located).

It can throttle the bandwith of the users on a per IP basis.

skyMOM in turn connects over the Internet to skyBILL software at skyCAPS.net that manages tech support, individual user web pages with discussion threads on performance, and credit card payment software.

skyMOM typically runs in a small Linux-based PC. The Linux box contains a network card (NIC) connected to the router for the (usually wired) high-speed Internet access connection. This may be a business-class DSL (one which permits resale of Internet access) or a T1 or bigger pipe.

Several companies are developing such management and monitoring software for small WISPs. (See the Joltage/Sputnik arrangement.) All the for-profit national WISP aggregators offer their local partners management software that protects the local LAN from attacks by mobile wireless users, and guarantees some minimum bandwidth to the LAN users.

skyCAPS are Community Access Point Services based on a mix of technology, hardware, and software for management, monitoring, and billing recommended by skyCAPS.net, a subsidiary of skyBuilders.com.