Overview
How to Identify a Wi-Fi Bus
Frequently Asked Questions
Acceptable Use Policy and Disclaimer
Customer Feedback

Overview

AC Transit has equipped a select group of Transbay buses with free, wireless Internet access. Using your wi-fi enabled device, such as a laptop, PDA, or cell phone, you're able to send e-mail, surf the Web, or download files from the comfort of your seat while you commute to and from work.

Wireless service is provided by AT&T, and is funded by a grant from the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency.

How to Identify a Wi-Fi Bus

Wi-fi is available on AC Transit's MCI (green, commuter-style) buses that provide service across the Bay Bridge, San Mateo Bridge, and Dumbarton Bridge, as well as on all 12 Dumbarton Express buses operated by AC Transit. You'll know the bus you're riding is wi-fi equipped if it has the "Wi-Fi On Board" decal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to use the service?

No, this is a free service and there are no registration requirements.

How will I know if my bus is wi-fi enabled?

Buses with wi-fi service have "Wi-Fi On Board" decals and/or interior signage indicating the service is available. Since not all Transbay trips are served by MCI buses, it is not guaranteed that you will have wi-fi access during your commute.

What equipment do I need to use Wi-Fi?

To use the service, your device (laptop, PDA, cell phone) must be wi-fi enabled. Both PCs and Macs can be used. Using AC Transit's wi-fi service is similar to connecting with other wireless Internet services in cafes, office buildings, or other wireless hot spots.

How do I connect?

To access the AC Transit wireless network, all you need to do is start up your computer and launch your Internet browser. If you don't connect automatically, you must enable your wireless device to access the wi-fi connection identified as "ac_transit_wifi_bus." For advanced instructions on how to set or modify your wi-fi network connections, please consult the manual or contact technical support for your particular wireless device.

Is wi-fi available when the bus is not moving?

For wi-fi service to be enabled, the bus engine must be on and running for at least five minutes. Once the bus engine is turned off, wi-fi service will be disconnected. Bus operators follow strict protocol regarding engine idling in the Transbay Terminal and cannot accommodate requests to "keep the engine running."

What about bandwidth and network speed?

Wi-fi service can accommodate basic Internet browsing, checking and sending e-mails, streaming multi-media, downloads, and file transfers. Due to the characteristics of the cellular network, there may be locations where service is intermittent or unavailable. In addition, overall connection speed may be affected by the number of wi-fi users on the bus.

What do I do if I'm having trouble using the service?

If you have tried unsuccessfully to connect to the Internet, or service has been interrupted and you're unable to reconnect, you should report the problem to AC Transit by completing a "customer feedback" form at www.actransit.org (click on "Customer Assistance"). Please do not ask the bus driver for assistance with your wi-fi connection. Bus operators have not been trained to evaluate and fix Internet-related problems.

Acceptable Use Policy & Disclaimer

By using AC Transit's on board wi-fi service and logging on to this network, you are agreeing that you will not use this service to violate any applicable law or regulation.

All that is being provided through AC Transit's wi-fi service is "free" Internet access.  AC Transit is not providing security, support or related services, and all questions regarding these topics, and whether and how a user should use the service, should be directed to an "IT" professional familiar with the user's hardware, software and/or use policies.

By using AC Transit's on board wi-fi service, you assume all risks associated with the use of this service, including but not limited to, any risk to your computer, software or data of being damaged by any virus, software, or any other file which might be transmitted or activated due to use of the service. You should be aware that the network may be required to disclose data related to the use of this service if it is served with a legal subpoena or court order.

AC Transit shall not be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages, including, without limitation, lost revenues or lost profits, resulting from the use or misuse of this service.  By using the free Internet service provided by AC Transit, you are agreeing to the disclaimer set forth above.