What is a skyPOP?

A skyPOP is the "head-end" of the local skyCAPS service, where the Internet "point of presence (POP) is located.

It communicates with all its users via skyMOM management and operations monitoring software.

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.

skyPOP typically runs in a small Linux-based PC. It 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.

The skyPOP computer may also contain the master skyCAP access point (on a PCI card for example). But more commonly it is "dual-homed" with a second NIC card that connects to one or more powerful stand-alone skyCAP access points.

This access point may be running in infrastructure mode to provide access to PC (PCMCIA) Cards in laptop computers, or in bridging mode to other skyCAPs on other LANs (local area networks). This effectively creates a single large LAN called a skyLAN.

A master skyCAP is generally connected to an external antenna, possibly with amplification, to exchange strong transmit and receive signals with user skyCAPs.

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.