A
network communication service with an improved subscriber model. In one embodiment, a mobile user (MU), also referred to as a subscriber, may access the
network service through a portable computing device (PCD) using a
wireless (or wired)
network interface card. Access points (APs) for the network may be widely distributed in various facilities. In one embodiment, the APs are arranged at known geographic locations and may provide geographic location information regarding the geographic location of the mobile user (MU). A digital
certificate may be stored on the mobile user's PCD in order to allow access to the network. The digital
certificate may store sponsorship information, including information regarding programs or entities in which the mobile user is a member or is affiliated. Each mobile user (subscriber) to the
network service may have a "value bucket" which determines the amount of network access or service available to the user. Billing for access to the
network communication service, i.e., the amount the "value bucket" is drained or filled, may be based on one or more of a number of factors, including information stored in the digital
certificate, such as sponsorship information, the geographic location of the user, demographic information of the user, and charging information of the user.