Secure guest WiFi has become a basic expectation in cafés, salons, waiting rooms, and offices. Customers want to scroll, check emails or browse while they wait. But with that convenience comes a responsibility that many businesses still underestimate: keeping users safe while connected.
As cyber risks evolve in 2025, offering protected guest WiFi Is more common that ever. Failing to protect your public network can lead to serious consequences for both you and your customers.
At The Unite Group, we help businesses stay ahead of the curve. Our Horizon solution is a powerful, secure, and fully branded guest WiFi system that not only keeps users safe but also gives you complete visibility and control.
Public WiFi Is a Growing Target
Over the past year, there’s been a sharp rise in WiFi-related threats – especially in the UK. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of poorly secured networks using AI-generated phishing pages, lookalike hotspots, and real-time data harvesting tools. The result? Sensitive customer information being intercepted without anyone knowing.
In one recent case, fake WiFi networks were set up near hospitality venues to mimic real guest logins. Customers unknowingly connected, entered their details, and had personal data compromised within minutes. Without secure guest WiFi in place, businesses are left exposed and, in many cases, held responsible for what happens on their connection.
What Secure Guest WiFi Should Really Offer
Guest WiFi needs to do more than just block dodgy websites. It should protect every device that connects and ensure you know who’s using your network, when, and how.
With Horizon WiFi from The Unite Group, you get:
1. Full Traceability
Each device is tracked by MAC address, so you always have a log of who’s connected. This is especially important if there’s ever a misuse complaint or a legal request.
2. Controlled Access
Users sign in securely via a branded landing page. You choose what data is collected and whether they reauthenticate or reconnect automatically in future. Plus, you can prevent access to unsuitable content using built-in filters.
3. Professional Branding
Your WiFi login page becomes an extension of your business. Add your logo, colours, messaging and promotions – great for reinforcing brand awareness or sharing offers.
4. Marketing Insights
Horizon lets you collect valuable insights, such as user emails or visit frequency. You can download this data from the portal and use it for email campaigns, loyalty rewards, or targeted promotions.
5. UK-Based Support
The Unite Group supports every Horizon setup from our UK-based helpdesk. If there’s ever a glitch, we’re on hand to help – quickly, and without the jargon.
Why It Matters More Than Ever in 2025
Security expectations have shifted. People are much more aware of how their data is used and stored. Offering secure guest WiFi not only protects them but shows that your business takes privacy seriously.
And it’s not just about protection. It’s about perception. If your WiFi is unreliable, slow, or feels risky to use, it reflects badly on your brand. On the other hand, a smooth and safe experience builds trust and gives customers one more reason to return.
Real Benefits of Horizon WiFi
Businesses using Horizon WiFi benefit from more than just a reliable internet connection. The system captures valuable customer data during login – such as email addresses – which can then be downloaded from the Horizon portal and used to support direct marketing efforts.
For example, you can upload a photo of today’s offer or promote a seasonal sale directly through the branded WiFi homepage. The portal is easy to update, meaning your public network becomes an active part of how you engage with customers.
Horizon WIFI also recognises returning users. Once someone has logged in at any location, the system remembers their device and connects them automatically next time, making the experience smooth and hassle-free.
That’s the power of secure guest WiFi – it protects your users while giving your business a simple, practical tool for customer engagement.
Final Thoughts
Unsecure WiFi isn’t just a technical flaw. It’s a business risk. From legal liability to reputational damage, it’s simply not worth leaving your network open.
With Horizon from The Unite Group, you can offer customers the connectivity they expect without putting your business at risk. You stay in control. Your brand looks professional. And most importantly, your customers stay protected.
If you’re ready to upgrade to secure guest WiFi that actually works for you, we’re ready to help.
Get in touch with The Unite Group today to learn more about Horizon WiFi and how it can improve your public connectivity, security and customer engagement.