Free Wi-Fi At 80 Tube Stations By Olympics

People using the Tube in London will be able to use the internet at stations across the capital for the first time from this summer.

The Mayor of London has announced that free Wi-Fi will be available to Tube passengers on platforms during the London Olympics .

The network will not work on moving trains.

A contract has been awarded to Virgin Media to provide the wif-fi access at no cost to the fare or taxpayer.

It will be introduced at over 80 stations ahead of the summer, while up to 120 stops will be connected by the end of the year.

The equivalent of a 4G network service across all areas is expected to be available - even during busy times.

London Mayor Boris Johnson , said: "It's vital that we harness the massive opportunities stemming from the digital revolution, by creating a vibrant, world-class industry to attract investment and create jobs for Londoners.

"Millions of passengers will now be able to connect to their work, friends or access the latest news and travel information whilst on the move.

"This is a fabulous new and free resource which will be in place from this summer when London is being showcased on a global stage and playing host to millions."

Virgin Media phone and broadband customers will be able to use the service bundled into their existing packages after the Olympics, but non-Virgin customers will have to use a pay-as-you go service.

Security-wise, Virgin will be launching an internet safety campaign to tell people how to stay safe online.

Firewalls will be in place, but the firm is advising people to have their own anti-virus software installed.

Neil Berkett, chief executive of Virgin Media, said: "With the eyes of the world on London this summer, we'll be showing off our capital as a leading connected city on the global stage.

"We'll help people make the most of the city and will continue to evolve the service, ensuring everyone can benefit from a service London will be proud of."

Gareth Powell, London Underground's director of strategy and service development, added: "We're upgrading the Tube to make it fit for the 21st century.

"This latest innovation is great news for Tube customers, who now have access to emails, web and social media underground for the first time."