Hotspot Setup

Configure a WiFi captive portal for prepaid internet access.

Overview

The Qserve hotspot system lets you run a branded captive portal on your WiFi network. When a user connects to your WiFi and opens a browser, they are redirected to a login/payment page. They can log in with a voucher code, pay via M-Pesa, or use a pre-created account.

Step 1 — Create a Hotspot in Qserve

1. Go to Hotspots → New Hotspot.
2. Fill in:
   • Name — e.g., "Westlands WiFi Zone"
   • Site — select the site where this hotspot is located
   • SSID — the WiFi network name (used for display purposes)
   • Session Timeout — how long a session stays active after the last activity
   • DNS Name — a local domain shown in the captive portal URL (optional)
3. Save the hotspot. Qserve generates a unique hotspot configuration and login URL.

Step 2 — Configure MikroTik Hotspot

On the Site installation page, download the hotspot setup script for your specific hotspot. Run it in the MikroTik terminal:

/tool fetch url="https://qserve-isp.net/downloads/mikrotik/set-hotspot/HOTSPOT_ID" \
  dst-path=hotspot-setup.rsc; /import hotspot-setup.rsc

This script configures the MikroTik hotspot server, sets the login URL to point to Qserve's captive portal, and configures RADIUS authentication.

Step 3 — Set Up Hotspot Plans

Create plans with service type Hotspot. Example plans for a hotspot:

Step 4 — Generate Vouchers (Optional)

Vouchers are pre-generated codes that hotspot users can enter on the login page to get internet access. Ideal for hotels, cafes, and events.

1. Go to Vouchers → Generate.
2. Select the hotspot, plan, and quantity (e.g., 50 vouchers for the Day Pass plan).
3. Click Generate. Qserve creates the vouchers and shows a printable list.
4. Print or export the vouchers as a PDF to distribute to your customers.

How the Captive Portal Works

When a WiFi user connects and opens a browser:

1. MikroTik intercepts the HTTP request and redirects to the Qserve captive portal URL.
2. The portal shows your branded login page with options to pay via M-Pesa or enter a voucher code.
3. On successful payment/voucher, Qserve authenticates the MAC address with the MikroTik hotspot server.
4. The user is redirected to their intended website and internet access begins.

Customising the Portal

In Settings → Portal Design, you can upload your logo and set the primary color for the captive portal. The portal automatically uses your ISP's branding.