Rural Internet FAQ's
Q: Why is internet in cities and towns so much different from rural areas?
Urban internet is delivered through cables and fibre (often buried). High population density covers costs to put this infrastructure in place and maintain it long term.
Rural internet is delivered differently, using towers and satellites to broadcast internet signals to roof mounted units. This method can cover vast areas in more sparsely populated regions (ie: small towns, villages, farm and ranch areas, off-grid regions) . More equipment is required for this type of delivery - as well as higher service needs.
Q: When I signed up for Xplore 4 years ago, my internet was fast and reliable. It's very slow now - what happened?
A: The internet is constantly changing, the same website will require more and more bandwidth and data as technologies in that site grow and change. If your internet speed is not updated or adjusted, it will feel slower and slower over time.
We strongly suggest, if you are an Xplore customer, contact them every 2 years to see what upgraded speeds or new equipment are available. Added bonus: price for higher speeds today is less than the lower speeds of a few years ago.
Q: What's the difference between tower service and satellite service for internet?
A: Tower service offers unlimited use (data) and higher speeds at lower prices. It requires line-of-sight to a nearby tower and is generally easier to service. Towers are faster and easier to upgrade, offering better future prospects for all users.
Satellite service currently offers very high speeds, with some limits on use. The extreme distance of a satellite from your dish and modem can create "latency" (small time lags in sending and receiving data). It is generally more expensive and always more challenging to upgrade.
When you call RIPS to set up your internet, our staff will carefully check your location and elevation to the nearest tower and work to ensure you get the best internet available to you.
Q: Why does RIPS Audio Video only deal with XPLORE for internet services?
A: XPLORE is a Canadian company solely committed to rural internet. We believe that is important. Our customers should be the focus of an internet service, rather than an after-thought, or secondary consideration.
Given todays rapid pace of development, we look to partner with a company honestly invested in building and improving infrastructure that supports our customers' needs and improves life in our rural community. Xplore is the best choice.