National Capital FreeNet
National Capital FreeNet (NCF) (French: Libertel de la Capitale Nationale), is a non-profit community organization internet service provider, with the goal of linking people in Canada's capital of Ottawa and ensuring no Ottawa citizens would be excluded from internet access.
| Abbreviation | NCF |
|---|---|
| Formation | September 1992 |
| Type | NGO |
| Legal status | Non-profit association |
| Purpose | Educational |
| Headquarters | Suite 206 Richmond Square, 1305 Richmond Road, Ottawa, Ontario K2B 7Y4 |
| Location |
|
Region served | Ottawa, Ontario Gatineau, Québec |
Membership | Individuals |
Official language | English & French |
President | Chris Cope |
Main organ | Board of Directors |
Staff | 13 |
| Website | www |
Founded in September 1992 with the active participation of volunteers, Carleton University, and private industry (which donated communications equipment), NCF was one of the first free-nets set up worldwide and was patterned after the Cleveland Free-Net that had been established at Case Western Reserve University in 1984. Within a year of its establishment NCF had over 10,000 members.
NCF offers broadband (DSL) and dial-up service to people in the national capital region; in early 2012, over 4,000 members used its dial-up service.
The National Capital FreeNet is a free, computer-based information sharing network. It links the people and organizations of this region, provides useful information, and enables an open exchange of ideas with the world. Community involvement makes FreeNet an important and accessible meeting place, and prepares people for full participation in a rapidly changing communications environment."