Strategies & Actions

Internet in Hamilton

The City of Hamilton recognizes that the internet is an essential means of communication, and an invaluable informational, educational and economic tool that should be accessible to all Hamiltonians. Access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet connectivity is critical to our community in order to access services and information, work remotely, access online learning or operate a business. High speed broadband availability across Hamilton is a key economic driver and is central to economic growth and job creation in our community.

Improving access to internet and supporting investments in broadband services that support working and learning from home beyond the pandemic is a strategic priority for the City of Hamilton Council and highlighted in the Mayor’s Task Force on Economic Recovery Report.

Free Wireless/Wi-Fi Network in Hamilton

The City of Hamilton offers free wireless/wi-fi network (listed as “Hamilton_Guest”), which is open to all visitors free of charge. Getting online is quick and simple: all you need is a wireless/wi-fi-enabled laptop computer, tablet PC, or smart phone.

Visit our Wireless Network page to find an interactive map that lists all the free public Wi-Fi locations in Hamilton.

Public Computers and Free Internet to Use

Public computers are available at all Hamilton Public Library branches (except Locke). All computers are equipped with USB ports, have internet access and many branches offer additional software such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Powerpoint). Accessibility options are also available on all public computers.

Service Providers in Hamilton

Hamilton has a variety of internet service providers:

You can also check the National Broadband Internet Service Availability Map to search your address and see what providers service your area.

Test Your Internet Performance and Compare Across Hamilton

You can test your internet performance by visiting the City of Hamilton CIRA Performance Site. The site also shows internet performance across Hamilton. You can select different views such as Individual Tests, Data by Ward, Neighbourhood, Census Tract, Urban & Rural Area Boundary to see average internet download speeds.

Internet and Device Incentive and Training Support Programs

Several public and private initiatives have been launched in Canada and Hamilton in recent years. The overall goal is to provide low cost internet options, as well as devices to residents. The links below highlight various programs by federal/provincial government and internet service providers:

Internet Incentive Programs

Program by Rogers, provides $10/month internet access, and eligibility includes:

  • Rent geared-to-income (RGI) tenants of a non-profit housing partner organization
  • Recipients of Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), Ontario Works (OW), Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP)
  • Eligible participants of the Connecting Families Program

For more information visit Rogers Connected for Success - Income Support Programs - Ontario

Connecting Families program enables eligible Canadian families to access high speed internet service packages for $10 and $20 per month. Families who currently receive the maximum Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and seniors who currently receive the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are eligible for this initiative. Eligible households must receive a letter from the Government of Canada. This letter will contain an access code that you will need to sign up for the initiative.

If you have received a letter in the mail about this initiative from the Government of Canada, you can apply to Connecting Families.

Device Incentive and Training Support Programs

The Library offers online computer classes and individual virtual appointments to help with basic technical issues, downloading eBooks and using online library resources.

As a part of their Hamilton Reads Vision, the Hamilton Literacy Council offers free courses about how to access the internet, create and send emails, use Google Docs and learn basic computer skills. Learn more about the Hamilton Reads courses.

Renewed Computer Technology currently provides refurbished computers (and other devices such as monitors, keyboards etc.) to schools, First Nation bands, charities, non-profits, individuals and families living with limited income in Ontario at reasonable prices.

ReBOOT Canada provides computer equipment, training and technical support to charities, non-profits and people with limited access to technology.

Reports & Documents

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