I am having issues with Starband (my only broadband option right now). Their tech support has been less then supportive in my quest for speed! I was wondering if there was anyone out there using Starband that might help me test some connections sometime soon. I want to see if it is my installation or just a general problem.

You can reach me at or 717-993-2344. My business depends on high speed internet connectivity and I am not finding it. My hopes are for Verizon to wire this area for DSL (towards Cross Roads). Cable modem is not an option out here. T1 is way over priced and ISDN, well… let’s just say T1 is the same cost.

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer! It is great to be back in my hometown!!

Starband, as with any Sat Based system uses either one-way or two-way system.  Both designs have significant latency issues!
One way is uses a standard telephone for the upload and Sat based for the download.
Two-way uses Sat for both upload and download.

The Cable system and Verizon have started providing Broadband in the area.  Distance from the CO is an issue with DSL.  I am not sure on the “reach” of the cable system.  You might want to check out MTwirefree.

http://www.mtwirefree.net They have started a WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider).  I am answering you on this syste right now.  They ahve some startup issues in stewartstown.  Thoses issues are gettting worked out very quickly!  I travel the world and very rarely find this level of communication options in such a small area.

Craig Brown
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Starband uses a two way system. I understand all about the latency issues, but this is a bit much. The problem seems to be around 12:30pm - 4:30pm. I have a business grade service which guarantees better speeds 8am-8pm. What I am trying to figure out is if it is my install or a general problem.

I gave it a road test the other day by racing to a site with my satellite and my dial up account via a VPN. The dial up smoked the satellite which should be the case considering that the dialup with a VPN has much more overhead.

The wireless option is not currently an option for me. I am too far out. Probably will be the same for DSL. I have had to deal with CO issues before at other locations. Ughh! I am going to check with MTwirefree though and see if they are interested in offering it out here. The key is that I need business grade service (basically a single fixed IP address so that I can use a VPN as needed).

They (mtwirefree) offers fixed IP.
I am running VPN (nortel contivity) through the wireless service as my regular service.  I teach and work with a variety of VPN (including IPsec tunneling).  They have worked through the system.  I have used and tested CISCO /MicroSoft/SonicWall/Netscreen VPNs through the system.

They use an IPchains firewall which can accomadate most VPNs and Tunnel systems. Not sure how far out you are.

Another option is to MultiHome your system through a WebRamp type device.  This would bundle multiple IPs and dialup lines to service your system.

Craig Brown