How to Register as a PM-WANI PDO: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

One of the best things about the PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme is that the government has removed all "Red Tape" for small providers. If you are a shop owner, you do not need a license and you do not need to pay any registration fees to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

However, you must follow a specific process to link your Wi-Fi to the national network so users can find and pay you.

Step 1: Get a Fixed-Line Broadband Connection

Before anything else, you need a "Backhaul" (an internet connection).

• Source: You can use any ISP (Internet Service Provider) like BSNL, Jio, Airtel, or a local cable provider.

• Requirement: A stable Fiber (FTTH) connection is recommended for high speeds.

• Update 2026: Recent TRAI guidelines mandate that ISPs must provide broadband to PDOs at rates not exceeding twice the consumer price for plans up to 200 Mbps.

Step 2: Choose and Contact a PDOA (Aggregator)

You cannot operate alone; you must partner with a PDOA (Public Data Office Aggregator). The PDOA provides the software that handles user logins, payments, and data logs.

• How to find one: Visit the official PM-WANI Central Registry and click on "PDO Enquiry."

• Direct Approach: You can also contact certified companies like C-DOT, Inventum, or Nanovise directly.

• Decision Point: Ask the PDOA about their revenue share (usually 90% to you) and if they provide the hardware (Access Point).

Step 3: Buy a PM-WANI Compliant Access Point

Not every router works. You need a PM-WANI Compliant Access Point (AP) that supports "Captive Portal" (the login page where users enter their mobile number).

Popular Hardware Options: | Model Type | Estimated Price | Best For | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | C-DOT Mini PDO | ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 | Small indoor shops, Cafes. | | Dual-Band Indoor AP | ₹6,000 - ₹8,000 | Larger shops, Coaching centers. | | High-Range Outdoor AP | ₹10,000 - ₹15,000 | Market squares, Bus stands (200m range). |

Step 4: Installation & Onboarding

Once you have the hardware:

1. Connect: Plug your ISP's ethernet cable into the PM-WANI Access Point.

2. Configuration: Your PDOA will remotely configure the router or provide you with a setup key.

3. Sync: Your hotspot will automatically sync with the Central Registry. Within minutes, your shop will appear on all PM-WANI mobile apps (like C-WANI or udayaWANI).

Step 5: Start Selling Data Sachets

You don't need to sell physical coupons.

• Users see your Wi-Fi on their phone.

• They select a plan (e.g., ₹5 for 1GB).

• They pay via UPI (Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay).

• The money is collected by the PDOA and settled into your bank account weekly or monthly.

Technical Checklist for Maximum Speed

• Placement: Mount outdoor antennas at least 12 feet high to avoid signal blockage by vehicles.

• Power Backup: Use a small Router UPS (approx. ₹1,500) so your Wi-Fi stays on during power cuts.

• Frequency: Use 5GHz routers for crowded areas to avoid interference with other local Wi-Fi signals.

M-WANI PDO FAQ: Top 10 Questions Shop Owners Ask (2026)

Starting a Public Wi-Fi business under the PM-WANI scheme is an exciting opportunity for Indian shopkeepers. However, it’s natural to have questions before investing. We’ve compiled the most frequent doubts to help you decide.

1. Do I need a separate commercial license to sell Wi-Fi?

No. The Ministry of Communications has specifically exempted PDOs from any licensing or registration fees. You only need to register with a PDOA (Aggregator) to get started.

2. Can I use my existing home broadband for my PDO?

Yes. Recent 2024-2025 updates to the scheme allow PDOs to use regular FTTH (Fiber to the Home) connections. This significantly reduces your monthly costs compared to expensive commercial leased lines.

3. What happens if someone uses my Wi-Fi for illegal activities?

This is a common fear. Under the PM-WANI framework, the PDOA (Aggregator) is responsible for maintaining user logs (IP addresses, timestamps, etc.) for one year. Since every user must authenticate via a mobile OTP through the PM-WANI app, the "digital trail" leads to the user, not the shop owner.

4. How much distance does the Wi-Fi signal cover?

• Indoor Access Point: 10–20 meters (Best for small cafes or clinics).

• Outdoor Access Point: 100–200 meters (Best for market areas or bus stands).

5. Can I set my own prices for the data packs?

While the PDOA usually provides a set of "Sachet Plans" (e.g., ₹5 for 1GB), many aggregators allow you to choose which plans to offer. The goal is to keep prices low to encourage high volume.

6. How do I receive my earnings?

Payments are made by users via UPI or mobile wallets on the PM-WANI app. The PDOA collects these payments and settles your 90% share into your linked bank account (weekly or monthly).

7. What if there is a power cut?

Your Wi-Fi will go down unless you have a backup. We recommend using a small Mini-UPS for Routers (costs approx. ₹1,200). It can keep your Access Point running for 4 hours, ensuring you don't lose customers during outages.

8. Is it better than 5G? Why would people pay for my Wi-Fi?

5G is fast but often has poor indoor penetration and drains mobile batteries quickly. PM-WANI Wi-Fi offers a stable, cheaper alternative for people who want to download large files, watch videos, or work without exhausting their daily mobile data limit.

9. Can I run multiple hotspots from one shop?

Yes. You can install multiple "Access Points" (nodes) to cover a wider area (like a whole street) using the same backhaul internet connection.

10. What is the total "Ready-to-Start" cost?

Including a high-quality outdoor router and the first month's internet, you can start for approximately ₹12,000 to ₹15,000.