* Note: This info was posted originally on Nov 15th 2013. The content on this page is out of date and no longer valid, however it will remain here as an archive of how things “used to be”.
Well… this is a painful topic for me and for many who live in the Muskoka area…and beyond. I like to be positive in general but when it comes to internet service providers I often find it….challenging. Further on in my negativity, I will say that it’s less about who is good and more about which is less bad!
All kidding aside, I want to make it very clear that I have no affiliation with any internet provider. The truth is there are pros and cons with every internet provider. I just don’t like my reputation to be based on the service of any of these products. So let’s get started….
Click here if you want to learn about types of internet first.
Now on to…Wireless Internet Service Providers:
Currently both Bell and Rogers provide wireless service in Muskoka. The products are self serve. Meaning they don’t install it. If you can get a cell phone signal at your home, you can get this service. The hardware sits in your house. Amazingly it’s actually considered a cell phone product, so your contract would be through Bell or Rogers Mobility division. They both offer a stick and a hub. Buy the hub. It’s better. If you go with Bell you can save some money and bundle with other bell services. You can also purchase the hardware at the Source in Bracebridge (contract is with Bell Mobility). It is in the Metro grocery plaza. Both Bell and Rogers offer a flex plan. This means that you get a certain amount of internet at the base level. If you use more than that plan allows that month then you get automatically bumped up to the next higher plan. I find the service easy to setup. Reasonably trouble free, but the usage is limited. Also, customer service is frustrating and time consuming. They have a TERRIBLE return policy. I can deal with install and setup with this product if you need. I can also install an after market outdoor antennae if the unit is suffering from poor signal strength.
The best (or least bad option) in my mind is Vianet if you can get it. You will need to call them and have them do a site evaluation. 1-800-788-0363. The hardware is installed outside your home. Cable is run inside from unit. Wherever they can find the best signal. Roof? TV tower?… The speeds are reasonable, but the best part is the service is unlimited (within reason). The monthly bill is higher than Bell or Rogers on average, but it doesn’t fluctuate. No surprises! The other good thing if you travel, is that you can put the service on standby for up to 6 months. Vianet has absolutely the best customer service I have experienced in the ISP industry. That means a ton to me and is very under valued….until you have issues! Of course it doesn’t mean perfect and there are always a few bad apples.
Finally there is Satellite. If all else fails, this should be available to you. Sentel is a re-seller of explorenet satellite service. Hardware is mounted outside. Cable run inside. Service is better than dialup but slower than the other products. Cost is about the highest too. However this may be your only option.
There are other companies out there offering the same or similar products, but please be warned that if you spent too much time trying to filter through all of them, you may get dizzy and fall down….or just get so frustrated that you give up!