FAQ - Helium Network
What is the Helium Network?
Helium is a global, distributed network of Hotspots that create public, long-range wireless coverage for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Hotspots mine and are rewarded in IOT, a cryptocurrency now on the Solana blockchain.
Today, the Helium ecosystem, and its hundreds of thousands of Hotspots deployed by a global community, provide access to the largest decentralized wireless network in the world. Here’s a helpful introduction video.
Why is the Helium Network called The People’s Network?
We call it The People’s Network because the people who deploy Hotspots build and operate the network. It’s powered by them and owned by them.
Who governs the Helium Network and what is the Helium Foundation?
The Helium Foundation is a global not-for-profit dedicated to the proliferation of secure, cost-effective connectivity and it manages and maintains the open technologies that support the Helium Network. You can read more about governance from Helium Foundation here.
How does the Hotspot work and what does it power?
Hotspots enable people to own and operate a wireless network that supports a wide range of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, from smart pet collars and home delivery systems, to smart bikes and scooters, medical transport and tracking devices, cooling systems, smart lighting systems, and more. Here’s a helpful video about how Helium works.
Does Helium replace the Wi-Fi in my house?
No. Hotspots receive radio signals and route packets from low-power devices in your area that use LoRaWAN, a wireless protocol, and have been deployed to the Helium Network. Typically these are devices such as GPS trackers, environmental sensors, weather meters, etc., that only need to transmit and share small bits of information. The Hotspot uses your existing Internet (via WiFi or Ethernet) to deliver the data packets sent by devices. It does not replace internet or cellular service for regular devices like computers and smartphones
If I connect the Hotspot to my Wifi, am I breaking the terms of service with my Internet provider?
The Helium Network is not in the position or business of giving legal advice. In general, users should check the terms with individual providers and comply with applicable law.
How far does the Helium Network reach and does it use radio frequency?
Helium’s LoRaWAN technology, the combination of the Helium blockchain and LoRaWAN wireless protocol, uses sub-GHz radio frequency between 860 and 923 MHz. Depending on conditions, Helium LoRaWAN can reach dozens of miles or kilometers and even connect devices that are inside buildings unlike GPS and cellular signals.
What kind of cryptocurrency do I earn?
Hotspot owners earn IOT tokens.
How do Hotspots earn IOT?
Hotspots earn IOT by providing wireless coverage and transferring data from nearby devices. The more data transferred the larger the reward. Previously Hotspots earned HNT tokens and Here’s a helpful video about how HNT worked.
How much IOT will I earn?
Hotspot owners earn IOT depending on how frequently their devices do two things:
- Validate the Network - Hotspots transmit data to each other to confirm that the Network is secure and owners receive rewards when their Hotspot participates in a process called Proof of Coverage. You can learn more about Proof of Coverage here.
- Move Data for Device Users - If an e-scooter, pet tracker, air quality sensor or other device uses a Hotspot to transmit data, the owner of the Hotspot receives rewards based on how much data is transferred.
What if I'm in a rural area, or the only Hotspot in my area? Can I still earn rewards?
It's best to have at least one or two other Hotspots within radio range of you so that you can participate in Proof of Coverage Challenges to earn IOT rewards at a higher rate. If you are the only Hotspot in your area, you will earn IOT if a device uses your Hotspots connection to transfer sensor data back to the sensor users. IOT is distributed based on these economics. Read more about token economics here.
Can I connect my phone or computer to Hotspots?
Yes. As of early 2022 the community has started to roll out 5G-CBRS Hotspots in the USA 4G/LTE and 5G coverage on the Helium blockchain.
Does the Helium community have a Discord?
The Helium Discord is the primary communication channel for the Helium Network Community and it is the primary venue to get support for using the Network. The Helium Discord is moderated by independent members of the Helium community.
Here’s a helpful blog about the Helium Community and how you can join the Helium Discord.