Ha Noi pilots free public WiFi in city center
VGP - Cua Nam Ward in central Hanoi has rolled out a pilot program offering free public WiFi at major tourist destinations and public spaces from December 1, 2025, to February 2026.
Under the pilot, the Cua Nam FreeWifi network is now available across several key locations, enabling visitors to easily access information, navigation tools, and cultural or culinary guides. The initiative is part of the capital's broader push toward building a modern, smart city.
Ward authorities highlighted that expanding public WiFi is a priority within their digital-transformation agenda and serves as an important means of promoting the area to both domestic and international tourists.
During the trial period, free WiFi is accessible at five high-traffic sites: the Ha Noi Opera House, the 19/8 Flower Garden, the French-era villa at 46 Hang Bai Street, 19/12 Book Street, and the Hoa Lo Prison historical site.
Between December 2025 and February 2026, the ward will evaluate signal stability, user numbers, coverage, and overall satisfaction to adjust and improve the model.
Based on these assessments, Cua Nam Ward plans to expand the network to residential areas, community spaces, heritage sites, and major streets. The broader rollout aims to provide residents and visitors with faster, more secure, and more convenient access to digital information, while strengthening the ward's image as a smart, modern and welcoming destination in the capital.
Separately, the Department of Construction reported positive public response to peak-hour traffic restrictions in central Ha Noi, noting that most vehicles have complied and avoided the restricted streets.
As a result, traffic in the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake has become smoother, with no major conflicts or significant congestion recorded during peak times./.
