Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail customers: Try our free       Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect Test Program!

As one of the first services of its kind on commuter rail trains in the U.S., our free T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect test program strives to provide free Internet access for your laptop, cell phone, PDA or Wi-Fi enabled device. In fact, any commuter rail customer riding in a coach participating in the free T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect Test Program may be able to access the Internet via their enabled laptop or wireless device.

Here′s how it works:

• When boarding, look for posted signs reading, “This coach is participating in a free Wi-Fi Test Program.” At this time, only these vehicles offer Wi-Fi internet access.
• When you see the bandwidth symbol on your screen, click on it and you′ll come to our T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect page. Review the stated terms, and click “I Agree” (or “Connect”) for internet access.
• Signal strengths may vary and fluctuate and service interruptions may occur.
• Wi-Fi service works best when utilizing basic Internet browsing, as well as checking and sending e-mails.
• Our Wi-Fi offers limited bandwidth that is shared among all the users aboard your train car. Please remember to be courteous to our fellow internet users by limiting your use of streaming audio and video.
• Please be respectful of other customers and refrain from viewing inappropriate content. As a customer courtesy, we ask that you turn off any audible sound or use headphones.
• WI-FI Security and Privacy - Our Commuter Rail Connect Wi-Fi has limited bandwidth that is shared among all users on your train. And, as with any Wi-Fi source, please take extra precautions on what information and transactions you perform.

Frequently asked questions:

Q: May I ask train personnel for assistance in accessing  T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect?
A: MBTA Commuter Rail personnel serve strictly for fare collection, train operations and safety supervision. To get technical support, please call 1-866-470-6897.  For all other inquiries, or to provide feedback, please e-mail wifipilot@mbta.com.  We strive to respond to all inquiries within three business days.

Q: How do I connect?
A: Once you see that you are acquiring a wireless signal on your device, click it to connect to the T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect page. If you don′t automatically connect, make sure your laptop or wireless device is Wi-Fi enabled. Some laptops may have different procedures for connecting to a Wi-Fi network. Please consult the Help functions on your computer or the manufacturer′s instructions. Some laptops may have fire walls that prevent connection.

Q: How long is this service going to be “tested”?
A: As one of the first programs of this type in the nation, we know that we will face challenges throughout the testing period. We ask for your patience as we develop and perfect our onboard technology during the testing phase over the next several months.

Q: Why does Wi-Fi service sometimes fade in and out?
A: Due to the characteristics of the cellular network, there may be locations where service is intermittent or unavailable. Wi-Fi is solely dependent on the strength of the cellular signal in that area.  This is the same effect as when a person experiences a “dropped” call on a cell phone when hitting a “dead zone”. Click here to view the signal strength on your commuter rail line. 

Q: I don′t ride the Framingham/Worcester line, but my commuter rail coach indicated it was participating in the T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect Test Program. How come?
A: Commuter rail coaches are frequently switched from line to line to meet service demands. During our test program, Wi-Fi enabled coaches may be serving lines other than the Framingham/Worcester line. We invite commuter rail customers to try our free T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect service if they′re in a participating coach.  The various lines have different signal strength capabilities.  Click here to view the signal strength on your commuter rail line.

Q: Why was the Framingham/Worcester line picked as the primary test pilot?
A:  For two reasons.  First, it provides one of the best opportunities from a geographical perspective to test Wi-Fi capabilities as it runs from Boston to central Massachusetts (Worcester) through various terrains (hills, wooded areas, etc.) Secondly, we are aware that the Framingham/Worcester trains have experienced significant performance issues due mainly to the owner and operator of the line (CSX).  For that, we want to offer Framingham/Worcester customers the first opportunity.  Our goal is to roll out Wi-Fi service to all lines once we′re able to perfect it.

Q: Does T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect offer virus protection and security?
A: No, we do not. It is the customer′s responsibility to prepare a laptop or wireless internet device for secure internet usage. The MBTA is not responsible for any damages or security breaches.

Q: Can I download large files?
A: We recommend that you use T Wi-Fi Commuter Rail Connect for simple web services. Downloading or emailing large file attachments may result in the loss of the file.

Let us know how it's working!
Throughout the test period, we want your feedback.  Please send us your comments or suggestions to wifipilot@mbta.com.