FAQ

Internet FAQ's

Who do I contact if I am having technical difficulties?

You may call 295-6901 or email Technical Support.

What are the available technical support hours?

8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday - Friday.

9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday.

What are the minimum requirements my computer must meet to receive AMU High Speed Internet?

Windows 2000, XP, or Vista

128 MB of RAM

Pentium (or equivalent)

MAC-CPU Power PC

MAC-OS System 8

Requires Ethernet or USB Port

What if I go south for the winter and will not be around?

You can register as a snowbird and AMU will not charge for service during the winter months when there is no usage.

What is a cable modem?

A cable modem is a device that allows high-speed access to the Internet via a cable TV network. A cable modem will typically have two connections, one to the cable wall outlet and one to a computer. Cable modems allow consumers access to the Internet at higher speeds and at a fraction of the time it takes traditional telephone modems. This is true for two reasons: 1) broadband networks make the connection up to a hundred times faster, and 2) the service is "always on," meaning customers get the information they want, when they want it.

Why would I want a cable modem?

The number one reason is speed. Cable modems can offer download speeds from the Internet in excess of 1 Mbps -- at least 20 times as fast as a traditional telephone modem. Web pages tat take minutes to paint in with a dial-up connection pop up instantly with a cable modem. If you frequently download large files, such as video clips, audio clips, or software, cable modems will make life much easier. A second reason is that cable modems are "always on". No more waiting for your modem to dial-up your ISP.

Will I need to purchase my own cable modem?

No.

How is a cable modem connected to a computer?

It is connected through an Ethernet card or USB connection.

What if I have my own cable modem already?

Our service requires you to have a cable modem that is purchased through us. This is because we are responsible for your Internet connection as well as your neighbors'. Connecting untested cable modems onto our network could cause problems. So, to ensure you the highest level of quality, you must receive your cable modem through us.

Do I need to be a cable TV subscriber to receive cable modem service?

No. You can choose to have cable TV, Internet, or Telephone.

If you choose to have more than one AMU Communications product you will receive a discount on monthly bill.

Can my business receive cable modem service?

Absolutely,

Can I run a Web service through my connection?

No. Our current policies prohibit you from hosting your own server. Doing so may result in the termination of your service. If you require a hosting solution, contact AmberWave Communications at 295-6900.

Do I have any monthly bandwidth limits?

There is no limit on the amount of traffic you can have during the month. Remember, though, you may not run a server of any kind. Doing so may result in the termination of service.

Can I connect to my company's VPN over my Internet connection?

Yes, VPN, or Virtual Private Networking, should work with no problems.

How does a cable modem compare to Web TV?

Web TV uses your telephone line to connect to the Internet. This means you are limited to 56 Kbps.

Our cable modems allow you to connect to the Internet at over 1,000 Kbps.

Will I need additional software?

No. As long as your computer has either Internet Explorer or Netscape you are ready to surf the Internet. Also, most computers come with Outlook Express or Communicator to receive your email.

Will I receive any training on how to use the Internet?

Yes. One hour of training is supplied when the installer is in your home. They will go over how to surf the web and how to check email.

Will my Internet work as soon as the installer leaves?

Yes. As long as there are no unforeseen difficulties, your Internet connection will be working as soon as the installer is done.

I am paying for "X" amount of bandwidth and I can download at "X"!

As with any connection medium, there is a certain amount of overhead that it takes to make the connection work. Though, it probably isn't your connection that is being slow, it is the site you are downloading or connecting to.

How am I to know if my connection is up and running correctly?

There will be 4 green lights on the front of your cable modem indicating that the connection is good to go.

Can I connect more than one computer to my Internet connection?

Yes. You may choose to purchase a home networking kit. This will allow you to connect an unlimited number of computers to the Internet.

Do I have a dynamic or static IP address?

You will have what is called an automatic assigned address. This involves automatically renewing the address once an hour, but still receiving the same address.

Will I need any additional hardware?

All basic hardware will be provided with the install. Any components that we have to install outside the basic installation guidelines will be billed accordingly.

Will the installer also help with some computer problems that I have having?

No. Unfortunately our installers can't help you with computer problems that you are having. However, there are computer stores in Algona: Computer Systems of Algona at

(515) 295-2236 or Northwest Communications at (515) 295-5900.