Chebucto Community Net

• Chebucto FreeNet
• CCN

Chebucto Community Net is Eastern Canada's oldest running independent Internet Service Provider, which continues to run as a non-profit, community-run ISP dedicated to providing public access to the tools of communication. Originally called the Chebucto FreeNet, and operating on a Sparc 2 loaned by Dalhousie University, it began operating as a text-based host in late October 1993; on 16 June 1994, the name was changed to Chebucto Community Net (CCN).

On 7 June 2013 CNN completed the first phase of its Manors Project, a plan to provide high-speed wireless Internet access to public-run, low-income seniors housing. Joseph Howe Manor and H.P. MacKeen Manor were the first examples of non-profit home high-speed Internet access in Eastern Canada and the first multi-dwelling residences in the Maritimes with full wifi access.

In addition to its wireless service, CCN provides affordable dialup Internet access and supports free, text-based terminal Internet access. It provides low-cost or free communication tools and a home for the websites of dozens of community groups, information resources, neighbourhood organizations and small businesses.

Chebucto Community Net is run entirely by volunteers, including a volunteer board of directors, with the support of community partners including Dalhousie University Department of Mathematics and Statistics; Dalhousie Computing and Information Services; Halifax Regional Library; Nova Scotia Department of Technology & Science Secretariat; Human Resources and Development Canada; and Industry Canada.

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