So, you want to be a Node?

TableOfContents

Preliminary Requirements

Get DSL

First things first, you will need a "high-speed" internet connection. DSL is preferable to other service types because it is slightly less monopolistic (providing you more choices).

ISP

Although any high-speed internet connection with reasonable Terms of Service (TOS) will suffice, here are a few DSL Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that we can recommend:

Phone Line

In addition to an ISP, you will need to have a phone line to carry the DSL service. Most likely you already know who your phone company is. Qwest and Verizon are the largest "consumer" phone companies:

It is common for a phone company to be an ISP too. For instance, Qwest will try to give you the "hard-sell" on their ISP service, but you don't want that - you only want a phone line from them. Sometimes you can get a "naked" phone line that is for DSL, but cannot be used for voice calls. This is often a cheaper method if you wouldn't have a phone line otherwise.

If you can, get a "static IP". Your ISP will know about this. It is not necessary, but is more flexible in the long run.

Now you are ready to choose Option 1 or Option 2

Option 1: Just in your house/business

This is the simplest of the two options. It doesn't require considerations of weather conditions or big antennas mounted on your roof. It also isn't as fun :).

Buy an Access Point (AP)

There are lots and lots of options in this area. Unfortunately low price tends to correlate with low quality. It is probably not a good idea to buy the cheapest thing you can find. On the other hand, you don't want to spend too much. Following are a few APs, this list is not exhaustive and is entirely subjective, but it can get you started. (Since this is a Wiki and anyone can edit this page, hopefully this list will evolve over time).

Option 2: Share with your neighbors