FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions
1) How does AiroLink compare to a Dial-Up Connection?
Typical speeds for a dial-up connection are 25 - 35 kbps (thousand bits per second). AiroLink's typical speeds are as follows:
Plan 256: $40 per month for speeds up to 256 kbps (typical speeds: 150 - 200 kbps)
Plan 512: $50 per month for speeds up to 512 kbps (typical speeds: 300 - 450 kbps)
Bronze Plan: $70 per month for speeds up to 1024 kbps (typical speeds: 600 - 950 kbps)
2) How does AiroLink compare to DSL service.
DSL and AiroLink offer similar Internet speeds. DSL is not available in many rural areas .
3) What about security?
The wireless signals between AiroLink's base radio and our customer's radios are encrypted to provide security. Once data reaches the Internet it is vulnerable to criminals. Important data must be encrypted by the customer. For example, look for "https//" for the address of your bank or credit card company's web site. A web site with "https//" has encryption while "http//" does not.
4) What kind of computer do I need for service?
Each computer should have a Windows XP Operating System, Vista Operating System or a Mac Operating System with a network interface card (NIC). Most computers purchased since 2001 already have a NIC card installed. AiroLink can install a NIC to a computer, if needed, at an additional cost.
Note: Windows 98, Windows 2000 or Windows ME Operating Systems can also be used. However, Microsoft no longer provides any supports or updates for those operating systems.
Windows XP has a basic inbound software firewall installed to protect the computer from hackers. Windows Vista has a better inbound/outbound software firewall. Windows 98, Windows 2000 and Windows ME do not have a firewall. All Internet users must have a firewall to provide security from hackers.
A customer may use more than one computer on the Internet at the same time with one AiroLink account. A home or business network needs a router to "route" the data to the proper computer. A router has a built in hardware firewall that is more effective than a software firewall.
5) What equipment does AiroLink provide.
AiroLink provides an Internet radio and an outdoor antenna for as long as the customer subscribes to our service.
6) Is there a setup fee?
AiroLink charges a one-time setup fee of $275 to cover the Residential Installation of an Internet radio, antenna, and cables and the configuration of the equipment provided by AiroLink during the course of service.
7) Do I need to keep my my current Internet Service Provider account?
No. AiroLink is a wireless Internet Service Provider and does not require a dial-up account. AiroLink can replace AOL, MSN, NetIns, Iowatelecom, Netins, etc. as your ISP.
8) Does AiroLink offer Internet service for businesses?
AiroLink has a number of businesses using our service. Customers may use VPN (Virtual Private Networking) to allow connectivity between their home office and their company's local area network.
9) Do Cordless phones interfere with my connection?
Cordless phones may cause a problem. If a phone does interfere with the Internet radio the solution is to move the phone ten feet away from the radio.
If you have any further question or comments please feel free to contact me. My cell phone is turned on every day between 8 AM and 9 PM. Call me after hours and leave a message on my voice mail and I will get back to you.
John Cramer
AiroLink Communications
2432 - 240th Street
PO Box 194
Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115