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About YourLink - Frequently Asked Questions
YourLink High-Speed Wireless F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
01. How does YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service work?
02. What are the benefits of YourLink's High Speed Internet Services?
03. What is the significance of "upstream" and "downstream" speeds?
04. How does YourLink's Internet service compare with other rural Internet options, such as "Dial-up" and Satellite?
05. How much will YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services cost?
06. How do I pay for the services?
07. What is Voice over IP?
08. Can I use VoIP with my YourLink Internet services?
09. How does inclement weather (rain, snow storms, etc.) affect wireless services?
10. Is there anything that could potentially cause interference with the equipment, and possibly affect my signal?
11. How secure are YourLink's High Speed Internet services?
12. Can I connect to the Internet with my laptop/desktop computer "wirelessly" in my home or place of business?
13. What equipment is included in YourLink's Wireless Internet package?
14. Is there anything we need in addition to YourLink's equipment?
15. How can I be certain that YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services will work at my location?
16. What happens if my transceiver breaks down?
17. What if I need to move in a year and no longer need the services or the wireless radio?
18. Will I need to purchase/rent new hardware in a few years as technology continues to advance?
19. As YourLink adds more customers to the network, will the quality and speed of my services be affected?
20. What are the minimum requirements for my computer to ensure that I can receive the service?
21. What kind of customer support will I get with my internet service?
22. Will I be able to access my e-mail account remotely?
23. Does YourLink's services include unlimited hours surfing the Internet each month, or is there a maximum monthly amount of hours available? If so, is there an hourly fee if the maximum is exceeded?
24. Will I need a second telephone line?
25. What is the difference between a Static IP address and a Dynamic IP address, and how do I determine which one is most suitable for my Internet needs?
26. If I already have an existing email address through another Internet Service Provider, will I have to change it?
27. What will my YourLink e-mail address look like?
28. Do you have an acceptable use policy for the internet services?
29. What if I want to change over to a different service package at some point in the future?
30. Do you offer "seasonal" service? If so, what are the details?
31. Where can I find more information about YourLink?
32. Where does YourLink currently offer services?
33. How can we get YourLink to start offering Rural High Speed Internet services in our community?
34. If I have a question that's not included in the FAQ section, how do I get it answered?
35. Where can I learn more about broadband wireless technology?
1. How does YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service work?
With YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet service, subscribers can be reached in most rural/remote areas, dependent upon their location and "line-of-sight" conditions. In other words, any subscriber living within approximately a 20 to 25 km radius of one of YourLink's numerous transmitting Access Points (or AP's, located on towers or building/elevator roof-tops, etc), may be able to connect as long as the subscriber's surrounding terrain/trees/buildings, etc. do not block the line-of-sight from a nearby YourLink Access Point.
Contact YourLink today at 1-866-650-5465 to discuss in detail your location in relation to our coverage areas, with one of our Sales Specialists. As well, our website, www.yourlink.ca includes detailed coverage "footprint" maps for each one of our service areas, as well as a Provincial map showing our total coverage area.
2. What are the benefits of YourLink's High Speed Internet Services?
YourLink's service is always available - your computer can be connected to the internet at all times and you do not need to dial up a connection every time you use the internet.
Always on - with Dial-up Internet services (widely available in rural and remote areas), you can use only your telephone OR Internet at any given time, but not both simultaneously. However, YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet service is always on, and has nothing to do with your phone service.
Faster speed - many services are available with YourLink which would otherwise be impossible on dial-up such as video conferencing, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), Internet games, downloading music or video footage, listening to your favorite radio station, or uploading and downloading large files.
3. What is the significance of "upstream" and "downstream" speeds?
"Downstream" (or "downloading") refers to any information/files sent through the Internet to your computer, while "upstream" (or "uploading") refers to any information/files sent through the Internet from your computer. In a dial-up connection, typical upstream/downstream speeds can range up to 56 Kbps (kilo-bits per second). With traditional high-speed services (i.e. "DSL" or Digital Subscriber Line, Cable-modem, Satellite) the upstream and downstream speeds are reasonably fast (500 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps or more). However, the upstream speeds are not quite as fast (usually 128 Kbps to 750 Kbps), but still faster than a dial-up connection.
Adequate Internet download and upload speeds have become significantly more important over the past few years, as the size of "files" transferred over the Internet are continually getting larger, therefore requiring faster transfer speeds. From rural and smaller community locations, these required transfer speeds make it almost impossible to stay properly "connected" to friends, family, and business/professional associates, without having a High Speed Internet solution, such as YourLink's services.
4. How does YourLink's Internet service compare with other rural Internet options, such as "Dial-up" and Satellite?
Dial-up (the service available in almost all rural areas) is the lowest cost service and also the slowest, with speeds rarely approaching 56 Kbps. As an alternative, Satellite service typically offers average downstream speeds of 1 Mbps and average upstream speeds of 128 Kbps.
As you are probably aware, most urban centres have DSL and cable-modem Internet services available however their range is limited to only a few km's from those centres' outskirts or city limits. This explains why these Internet services are typically not available in most rural communities and remote areas. With satellite services (typically offered to rural residents who can afford them), a basic installed system can cost as much as $1,000. Then, the basic services usually begin at approximately $70 per month (unless you're prepared to sign a long term contract in order to realize some savings). As well, most satellite services are reasonably fast in the downstream direction, but can be as slow as (or not much faster than) dial up in the upstream direction. Anyone intending to try things like sending photos or large files, video conferencing, VoIP, etc. over a satellite connection should be aware that slower upstream speeds will cause delays and/or latency, which can be very time-consuming and inconvenient.
5. How much will YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services cost?
The monthly cost of YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service depends on the subscriber package chosen from our numerous Residential and Business/Corporate service options. As well, the one-time start-up/installation costs depend primarily, among other factors, on the line-of-site conditions between the location connecting to the wireless service and a nearby YourLink Access Point. Please visit www.yourlink.ca for details on our Service Plan options.
You're welcome to contact YourLink at 1-866-650-5465, or click on the "Sign Me Up" button on the home page of YourLink's website at www.yourlink.ca and submit a online request. As well, you can email us at moreinfo@yourlink.ca. Please provide your legal land description, your location's GPS coordinates (if known), or your street address.
6. How do I pay for the services?
Either with monthly cheques/money orders mailed to our office, or by monthly recurring bank account/credit card payments. As well, you can pay YourLink bills online via your bank's website. They can also be paid in person at your bank, or at either one of our Saskatoon or Yorkton offices. The billing option that best suits your needs can be discussed and chosen when your new YourLink account is established, following the successful installation of services.
7. What is Voice over IP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is the transmission of local or long distance telephone calls over the Internet. VoIP services can be a very cost-effective alternative to a conventional telephone line, especially for long-distance calls, as there are typically no additional charges for those calls.
8. Can I use VoIP with my YourLink Internet services?
We currently do not offer, nor provide technical support for any VoIP services. Also, we cannot guarantee that any VoIP services will adequately work on our network. However, as a YourLink subscriber, you can subscribe to any VoIP provider you choose, on the understanding that specific support for that service must be provided directly from that particular provider.
9. How does inclement weather (rain, snow storms, etc.) affect wireless services?
The wireless radios we use are made to withstand the varying degrees of temperature, moisture and wind that the Prairies experience. As well, our radios are set up in a way that there is a large "fade margin" in the signal, that allows for weather interference. This means that your service should adequately work through most weather conditions.
10. Is there anything that could potentially cause interference with the equipment, and possibly affect my signal?
All wireless equipment could "potentially" interfere with the equipment, depending on the subscriber's and YourLink's Access Point location, the frequency deployed, etc. The main ones that could cause interference include the following...
11. How secure are YourLink's High Speed Internet services?
Privacy and integrity of data are key considerations for both Internet subscribers and operators. Security and authentication to prevent unwanted access to critical data or services are necessary for the effective operation of any broadband network. Applications such as medical, remote surveillance, safety, and security would not be possible without incorporating advanced security features into the fixed wireless network. Gone are the days when it wasn't necessary to be concerned with security as a fundamental building block.
YourLink's service incorporates a flexible security model that supports a wide variety of system configurations ranging from a fully open system to an authenticated/encrypted air link with dynamic session key assignment. YourLink's service also utilizes industry proven authentication and encryption technologies to ensure that the service provider maintains control of the network. The system comes with Data Encryption Standard (DES) to protect against eavesdropping, and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is available as an option for subscribers requiring the most secure network available.
12. Can I connect to the Internet with my laptop/desktop computer "wirelessly" in my home or place of business?
Yes, if you install a wireless router to YourLink's connection. YourLink's transceiver itself can only have one network device physically connected to it such as a computer, or, a wireless router (via a basic Ethernet connection), which would then facilitate a wireless network at your location. This would then allow one or more laptop/desktop computers to receive that Internet signal wirelessly (within a specified range, as determined by the router itself). As well, the computers used in this application must be capable of receiving a wireless signal, although the majority of newer computers already have this technology built into them, via a "Wireless Card". If not, one these "Cards" can be purchased and easily installed in almost any computer.
13. What equipment is included in YourLink's Wireless Internet package?
The specialized equipment package is called a "Subscriber Module", consisting of a transceiver, modem (typically built right into the transceiver), a Surge Suppressor, a Power Supply, and Ethernet cable. If and when required, a "concave-shaped" grid will be mounted behind the transceiver, to amplify the signal coming from our Access Point. The transceiver is typically mounted on the roof of the subscriber's home or place of business. Occasionally a mast (from 3 ft up to 10 ft), to raise the height of the transceiver, may be required. This ensures that "line-of-site" and acceptable signal strength conditions are realized.
14. Is there anything we need in addition to YourLink's equipment?
YourLink recommends the use of most current anti-virus protection and spyware programs available. We also highly recommend that you plug all of your computer/router/printer, etc. hardware into a Surge Protected Power Bar.
15. How can I be certain that YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services will work at my location?
At your request, and by providing us with your site's Legal Land Location and/or GPS co-ordinates, we can first perform a complimentary/no-obligation software "path-profile" analysis from our offices. If that analysis indicates that service to your location is theoretically possible, you can then request us to arrange for an actual "Site Survey" performed right at your location, by one of YourLink's Technician's or Authorized Dealers. There is a nominal fee for this service (dependent on your location, etc.), however, it is a far more accurate test than the software analysis, as it is physically performed on site, considering trees, buildings, etc., that may block line-of-site requirements. Please contact YourLink for more details.
16. What happens if my transceiver breaks down?
If you've purchased your YourLink hardware, there is a one (1) year warranty that covers both parts and labour to restore your service if it fails due to technical malfunction and/or manufacturer's defect (subject to normal "wear and tear" or usage). However, as long as you continue to rent your hardware directly from YourLink, in most cases both parts and labour are covered on an ongoing basis (some conditions apply). Please contact YourLink for more details.
YourLink or the hardware manufacturer does not provide coverage for negligence or intentional damage to subscribers' hardware. However, YourLink does offer an optional Protection Plan, called LinkShield. For a very reasonable monthly or annual fee, LinkShield covers 100% of both parts and labour required to restore service, if the subscriber's YourLink hardware (whether owned or rented) is damaged as a direct and specific result of inclement weather events, or "force majeure" events, as specified and defined by YourLink in the LinkShield Protection Plan Agreement Form (ie: hail, rain, wind, lightning, fire, etc). As well, there's no deductible on a legitimate LinkShield claim. Please contact YourLink for more details, or click on the LinkShield tab at www.yourlink.ca.
17. What if I need to move in a year and no longer need the services or the wireless radio?
If you are moving to a location where our service is not available, we may recommend leaving the Subscriber Module at your original property. This equipment could possibly add value to your home. A person purchasing a rural or small community home may be more attracted to it is High Speed "ready", as opposed to one that is not. However, if you're moving to a new location where YourLink's services are available, we can possibly facilitate a transfer of your hardware/service to your new place of residence. In this instance, please contact YourLink's Customer Support (1-888-671-5465), at least two (2) months prior to your re-location.
18. Will I need to purchase/rent new hardware in a few years as technology continues to advance?
Should we begin using new technology that affects your service and/or hardware, we will inform you in advance, and outline your options, if applicable.
19. As YourLink adds more customers to the network, will the quality and speed of my services be affected?
Considering the incredible recent growth of our subscriber base, YourLink is continually upgrading and "strengthening" our infrastructure to, as best as possible, stay ahead of the huge demand for our Rural High Speed Internet Services., This is facilitated by allocating new infrastructure resources and upgrades to our network where needed the most, in order to deliver the quality of service that our valued subscribers expect and deserve.
20. What are the minimum requirements for my computer to ensure that I can receive the service?
21. What kind of customer support will I get with my internet service?
Our technical support team is available for your assistance from 8am to 10pm Monday through Friday, and 10am to 8pm on weekends and holidays. They can be reached at 1-888-671-LINK(5465)
22. Will I be able to access my e-mail account remotely?
Yes. You can access your email account from any computer connected to the Internet, via the "WebMail Login" area located in the bottom left corner of our website's Home Page, at www.yourlink.ca.
23. Does YourLink's services include unlimited hours surfing the Internet each month, or is there a maximum monthly amount of hours available? If so, is there an hourly fee if the maximum is exceeded?
There is no limit to the time you are on the internet. The connection is always on and connected. Thus, there are no hourly fees. However, YourLink does monitor our subscribers' monthly data transfer limits.
24. Will I need a second telephone line?
No. The service is completely separate from your phone line, and therefore a second line is not required.
25. What is the difference between a Static IP address and a Dynamic IP address, and how do I determine which one is most suitable for my Internet needs?
As the names imply, Static IP addresses are the same every time you connect to the Internet, whereas Dynamic IP addresses may change each time you connect.
For YourLink subscribers, one (1) Static IP address is included at no extra cost in our Small Office Advantage, Business, and Business Advantage packages. However, if required, additional Static IP addresses can be purchased by any YourLink subscriber. Please contact us for more details.
26. If I already have an existing email address through another Internet Service Provider, will I have to change it?
Depending on which subscriber package you choose, YourLink packages include from one up to twenty-five email addresses. However, if you prefer, you can typically keep your previous Internet Service Provider's email address, but most likely you'll be charged a monthly fee from that provider to do so. If you have an email address with one of the more popular email services available (ie: Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo, etc), and you're a YourLink subscriber, you can still access your email account via that email provider's website. So, you're not obligated to obtain a YourLink email address(es), but depending on your needs, it may be in your best interest to do so, from a cost and/or convenience perspective.
27. What will my YourLink e-mail address look like?
Currently, your email address can look like [alias]@yourlink.ca, where [alias] can be any combination of alpha/numeric characters of your choosing, that is not already being used by other YourLink email accounts.
28. Do you have an acceptable use policy for the internet services?
Yes. Please click here: Internet Acceptable Use Policy to access that information.
29. What if I want to change over to a different service package at some point in the future?
YourLink does not tie you to a particular service plan contract, so you are free to switch between service plans as often as you like. However, there is a minimum of thirty (30) days of service required when switching down to a lower level plan. Also, YourLink may offer special pricing to new subscribers that require them to sign a specific term contract. These contracts will include special terms and conditions that will be fully disclosed to those subscribers, when applicable.
New Business and Corporate subscribers are sometimes required to, and benefit from, signing a term contract with YourLink. This will include YourLink implementing and maintaining a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the new subscirber, which ensures a certain and specific reasonable level of service to be provided.
30. Do you offer "seasonal" service? If so, what are the details?
Yes, we do offer seasonal service for "snowbirds", etc., however, YourLink does charge a $25 re-activation fee (subject to change, plus all applicable taxes) for each time you request your service to be turned back on. However, there is no charge to temporarily de-activate your service. Please call YourLink's Customer Support line when a de-activation or activation is required, providing as much advance notice as possible. Also, keep in mind that if you're renting YourLink's hardware, the monthly rental fee will be charged on an ongoing basis, regardless of whether your Internet service is active or not.
31. Where can I find more information about YourLink?
See the "ABOUT YOURLINK" tab on our website's Home Page for more information.
32. Where does YourLink currently offer services?
Visit www.yourlink.ca, and click on the "Choose Your Location" drop-down box located on the Home Page, to select a specific location's Coverage Map. Or, you can view our entire Saskatchewan Coverage Map, which is also available on the Home Page.
33. How can we get YourLink to start offering Rural High Speed Internet services in our community?
We usually welcome the opportunity to consider partnering with rural municipalities or communities to possibly launch new services in their area(s). YourLink has actually accomplished this in the past, with much success. If this is applicable to your area, feel free to contact YourLink directly to discuss potential "partnering" opportunities. Dependent upon the area(s), as well as YourLink's network expansion plans and requirements, we may be interested in pursuing it further with you for your area or community.
34. If I have a question that's not included in the FAQ section, how do I get it answered?
Simply call us at 1-866-650-LINK (5465) or email us at moreinfo@yourlink.ca
35. Where can I learn more about fixed wireless broadband technology?
Additional information about fixed wireless broadband technology can be accessed at the following web site:
Fixed Wireless - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fixed_Wireless_Data
01. How does YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service work?
02. What are the benefits of YourLink's High Speed Internet Services?
03. What is the significance of "upstream" and "downstream" speeds?
04. How does YourLink's Internet service compare with other rural Internet options, such as "Dial-up" and Satellite?
05. How much will YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services cost?
06. How do I pay for the services?
07. What is Voice over IP?
08. Can I use VoIP with my YourLink Internet services?
09. How does inclement weather (rain, snow storms, etc.) affect wireless services?
10. Is there anything that could potentially cause interference with the equipment, and possibly affect my signal?
11. How secure are YourLink's High Speed Internet services?
12. Can I connect to the Internet with my laptop/desktop computer "wirelessly" in my home or place of business?
13. What equipment is included in YourLink's Wireless Internet package?
14. Is there anything we need in addition to YourLink's equipment?
15. How can I be certain that YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services will work at my location?
16. What happens if my transceiver breaks down?
17. What if I need to move in a year and no longer need the services or the wireless radio?
18. Will I need to purchase/rent new hardware in a few years as technology continues to advance?
19. As YourLink adds more customers to the network, will the quality and speed of my services be affected?
20. What are the minimum requirements for my computer to ensure that I can receive the service?
21. What kind of customer support will I get with my internet service?
22. Will I be able to access my e-mail account remotely?
23. Does YourLink's services include unlimited hours surfing the Internet each month, or is there a maximum monthly amount of hours available? If so, is there an hourly fee if the maximum is exceeded?
24. Will I need a second telephone line?
25. What is the difference between a Static IP address and a Dynamic IP address, and how do I determine which one is most suitable for my Internet needs?
26. If I already have an existing email address through another Internet Service Provider, will I have to change it?
27. What will my YourLink e-mail address look like?
28. Do you have an acceptable use policy for the internet services?
29. What if I want to change over to a different service package at some point in the future?
30. Do you offer "seasonal" service? If so, what are the details?
31. Where can I find more information about YourLink?
32. Where does YourLink currently offer services?
33. How can we get YourLink to start offering Rural High Speed Internet services in our community?
34. If I have a question that's not included in the FAQ section, how do I get it answered?
35. Where can I learn more about broadband wireless technology?
1. How does YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service work?
With YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet service, subscribers can be reached in most rural/remote areas, dependent upon their location and "line-of-sight" conditions. In other words, any subscriber living within approximately a 20 to 25 km radius of one of YourLink's numerous transmitting Access Points (or AP's, located on towers or building/elevator roof-tops, etc), may be able to connect as long as the subscriber's surrounding terrain/trees/buildings, etc. do not block the line-of-sight from a nearby YourLink Access Point.
Contact YourLink today at 1-866-650-5465 to discuss in detail your location in relation to our coverage areas, with one of our Sales Specialists. As well, our website, www.yourlink.ca includes detailed coverage "footprint" maps for each one of our service areas, as well as a Provincial map showing our total coverage area.
2. What are the benefits of YourLink's High Speed Internet Services?
YourLink's service is always available - your computer can be connected to the internet at all times and you do not need to dial up a connection every time you use the internet.
Always on - with Dial-up Internet services (widely available in rural and remote areas), you can use only your telephone OR Internet at any given time, but not both simultaneously. However, YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet service is always on, and has nothing to do with your phone service.
Faster speed - many services are available with YourLink which would otherwise be impossible on dial-up such as video conferencing, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), Internet games, downloading music or video footage, listening to your favorite radio station, or uploading and downloading large files.
3. What is the significance of "upstream" and "downstream" speeds?
"Downstream" (or "downloading") refers to any information/files sent through the Internet to your computer, while "upstream" (or "uploading") refers to any information/files sent through the Internet from your computer. In a dial-up connection, typical upstream/downstream speeds can range up to 56 Kbps (kilo-bits per second). With traditional high-speed services (i.e. "DSL" or Digital Subscriber Line, Cable-modem, Satellite) the upstream and downstream speeds are reasonably fast (500 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps or more). However, the upstream speeds are not quite as fast (usually 128 Kbps to 750 Kbps), but still faster than a dial-up connection.
Adequate Internet download and upload speeds have become significantly more important over the past few years, as the size of "files" transferred over the Internet are continually getting larger, therefore requiring faster transfer speeds. From rural and smaller community locations, these required transfer speeds make it almost impossible to stay properly "connected" to friends, family, and business/professional associates, without having a High Speed Internet solution, such as YourLink's services.
4. How does YourLink's Internet service compare with other rural Internet options, such as "Dial-up" and Satellite?
Dial-up (the service available in almost all rural areas) is the lowest cost service and also the slowest, with speeds rarely approaching 56 Kbps. As an alternative, Satellite service typically offers average downstream speeds of 1 Mbps and average upstream speeds of 128 Kbps.
As you are probably aware, most urban centres have DSL and cable-modem Internet services available however their range is limited to only a few km's from those centres' outskirts or city limits. This explains why these Internet services are typically not available in most rural communities and remote areas. With satellite services (typically offered to rural residents who can afford them), a basic installed system can cost as much as $1,000. Then, the basic services usually begin at approximately $70 per month (unless you're prepared to sign a long term contract in order to realize some savings). As well, most satellite services are reasonably fast in the downstream direction, but can be as slow as (or not much faster than) dial up in the upstream direction. Anyone intending to try things like sending photos or large files, video conferencing, VoIP, etc. over a satellite connection should be aware that slower upstream speeds will cause delays and/or latency, which can be very time-consuming and inconvenient.
5. How much will YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services cost?
The monthly cost of YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet Service depends on the subscriber package chosen from our numerous Residential and Business/Corporate service options. As well, the one-time start-up/installation costs depend primarily, among other factors, on the line-of-site conditions between the location connecting to the wireless service and a nearby YourLink Access Point. Please visit www.yourlink.ca for details on our Service Plan options.
You're welcome to contact YourLink at 1-866-650-5465, or click on the "Sign Me Up" button on the home page of YourLink's website at www.yourlink.ca and submit a online request. As well, you can email us at moreinfo@yourlink.ca. Please provide your legal land description, your location's GPS coordinates (if known), or your street address.
6. How do I pay for the services?
Either with monthly cheques/money orders mailed to our office, or by monthly recurring bank account/credit card payments. As well, you can pay YourLink bills online via your bank's website. They can also be paid in person at your bank, or at either one of our Saskatoon or Yorkton offices. The billing option that best suits your needs can be discussed and chosen when your new YourLink account is established, following the successful installation of services.
7. What is Voice over IP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is the transmission of local or long distance telephone calls over the Internet. VoIP services can be a very cost-effective alternative to a conventional telephone line, especially for long-distance calls, as there are typically no additional charges for those calls.
8. Can I use VoIP with my YourLink Internet services?
We currently do not offer, nor provide technical support for any VoIP services. Also, we cannot guarantee that any VoIP services will adequately work on our network. However, as a YourLink subscriber, you can subscribe to any VoIP provider you choose, on the understanding that specific support for that service must be provided directly from that particular provider.
9. How does inclement weather (rain, snow storms, etc.) affect wireless services?
The wireless radios we use are made to withstand the varying degrees of temperature, moisture and wind that the Prairies experience. As well, our radios are set up in a way that there is a large "fade margin" in the signal, that allows for weather interference. This means that your service should adequately work through most weather conditions.
10. Is there anything that could potentially cause interference with the equipment, and possibly affect my signal?
All wireless equipment could "potentially" interfere with the equipment, depending on the subscriber's and YourLink's Access Point location, the frequency deployed, etc. The main ones that could cause interference include the following...
- cordless phones
- wireless weather stations
- baby monitors
- wireless routers
- gaming consoles
11. How secure are YourLink's High Speed Internet services?
Privacy and integrity of data are key considerations for both Internet subscribers and operators. Security and authentication to prevent unwanted access to critical data or services are necessary for the effective operation of any broadband network. Applications such as medical, remote surveillance, safety, and security would not be possible without incorporating advanced security features into the fixed wireless network. Gone are the days when it wasn't necessary to be concerned with security as a fundamental building block.
YourLink's service incorporates a flexible security model that supports a wide variety of system configurations ranging from a fully open system to an authenticated/encrypted air link with dynamic session key assignment. YourLink's service also utilizes industry proven authentication and encryption technologies to ensure that the service provider maintains control of the network. The system comes with Data Encryption Standard (DES) to protect against eavesdropping, and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is available as an option for subscribers requiring the most secure network available.
12. Can I connect to the Internet with my laptop/desktop computer "wirelessly" in my home or place of business?
Yes, if you install a wireless router to YourLink's connection. YourLink's transceiver itself can only have one network device physically connected to it such as a computer, or, a wireless router (via a basic Ethernet connection), which would then facilitate a wireless network at your location. This would then allow one or more laptop/desktop computers to receive that Internet signal wirelessly (within a specified range, as determined by the router itself). As well, the computers used in this application must be capable of receiving a wireless signal, although the majority of newer computers already have this technology built into them, via a "Wireless Card". If not, one these "Cards" can be purchased and easily installed in almost any computer.
13. What equipment is included in YourLink's Wireless Internet package?
The specialized equipment package is called a "Subscriber Module", consisting of a transceiver, modem (typically built right into the transceiver), a Surge Suppressor, a Power Supply, and Ethernet cable. If and when required, a "concave-shaped" grid will be mounted behind the transceiver, to amplify the signal coming from our Access Point. The transceiver is typically mounted on the roof of the subscriber's home or place of business. Occasionally a mast (from 3 ft up to 10 ft), to raise the height of the transceiver, may be required. This ensures that "line-of-site" and acceptable signal strength conditions are realized.
14. Is there anything we need in addition to YourLink's equipment?
YourLink recommends the use of most current anti-virus protection and spyware programs available. We also highly recommend that you plug all of your computer/router/printer, etc. hardware into a Surge Protected Power Bar.
15. How can I be certain that YourLink's Rural High Speed Internet services will work at my location?
At your request, and by providing us with your site's Legal Land Location and/or GPS co-ordinates, we can first perform a complimentary/no-obligation software "path-profile" analysis from our offices. If that analysis indicates that service to your location is theoretically possible, you can then request us to arrange for an actual "Site Survey" performed right at your location, by one of YourLink's Technician's or Authorized Dealers. There is a nominal fee for this service (dependent on your location, etc.), however, it is a far more accurate test than the software analysis, as it is physically performed on site, considering trees, buildings, etc., that may block line-of-site requirements. Please contact YourLink for more details.
16. What happens if my transceiver breaks down?
If you've purchased your YourLink hardware, there is a one (1) year warranty that covers both parts and labour to restore your service if it fails due to technical malfunction and/or manufacturer's defect (subject to normal "wear and tear" or usage). However, as long as you continue to rent your hardware directly from YourLink, in most cases both parts and labour are covered on an ongoing basis (some conditions apply). Please contact YourLink for more details.
YourLink or the hardware manufacturer does not provide coverage for negligence or intentional damage to subscribers' hardware. However, YourLink does offer an optional Protection Plan, called LinkShield. For a very reasonable monthly or annual fee, LinkShield covers 100% of both parts and labour required to restore service, if the subscriber's YourLink hardware (whether owned or rented) is damaged as a direct and specific result of inclement weather events, or "force majeure" events, as specified and defined by YourLink in the LinkShield Protection Plan Agreement Form (ie: hail, rain, wind, lightning, fire, etc). As well, there's no deductible on a legitimate LinkShield claim. Please contact YourLink for more details, or click on the LinkShield tab at www.yourlink.ca.
17. What if I need to move in a year and no longer need the services or the wireless radio?
If you are moving to a location where our service is not available, we may recommend leaving the Subscriber Module at your original property. This equipment could possibly add value to your home. A person purchasing a rural or small community home may be more attracted to it is High Speed "ready", as opposed to one that is not. However, if you're moving to a new location where YourLink's services are available, we can possibly facilitate a transfer of your hardware/service to your new place of residence. In this instance, please contact YourLink's Customer Support (1-888-671-5465), at least two (2) months prior to your re-location.
18. Will I need to purchase/rent new hardware in a few years as technology continues to advance?
Should we begin using new technology that affects your service and/or hardware, we will inform you in advance, and outline your options, if applicable.
19. As YourLink adds more customers to the network, will the quality and speed of my services be affected?
Considering the incredible recent growth of our subscriber base, YourLink is continually upgrading and "strengthening" our infrastructure to, as best as possible, stay ahead of the huge demand for our Rural High Speed Internet Services., This is facilitated by allocating new infrastructure resources and upgrades to our network where needed the most, in order to deliver the quality of service that our valued subscribers expect and deserve.
20. What are the minimum requirements for my computer to ensure that I can receive the service?
- Windows ME, 2000, XP, or Vista Operating Systems
- Intel Pentium 4 (or a minimum 1GHz Equivalent Processor)
- 512 Mb RAM
- Network Interface Card (NIC), which is properly installed and functioning
- Mac OS X 10.3.9 (Panther)
21. What kind of customer support will I get with my internet service?
Our technical support team is available for your assistance from 8am to 10pm Monday through Friday, and 10am to 8pm on weekends and holidays. They can be reached at 1-888-671-LINK(5465)
22. Will I be able to access my e-mail account remotely?
Yes. You can access your email account from any computer connected to the Internet, via the "WebMail Login" area located in the bottom left corner of our website's Home Page, at www.yourlink.ca.
23. Does YourLink's services include unlimited hours surfing the Internet each month, or is there a maximum monthly amount of hours available? If so, is there an hourly fee if the maximum is exceeded?
There is no limit to the time you are on the internet. The connection is always on and connected. Thus, there are no hourly fees. However, YourLink does monitor our subscribers' monthly data transfer limits.
24. Will I need a second telephone line?
No. The service is completely separate from your phone line, and therefore a second line is not required.
25. What is the difference between a Static IP address and a Dynamic IP address, and how do I determine which one is most suitable for my Internet needs?
As the names imply, Static IP addresses are the same every time you connect to the Internet, whereas Dynamic IP addresses may change each time you connect.
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When you do NOT need static IP addresses...
If you ONLY do things from the following list you do not need static IP addresses:
1. If you browse the Internet.
2. If you send and receive e-mail via an offsite server (the normal method).
3. If you download or upload files.
4. If you use Instant message services or chat services.
When you need Static IP Addresses...
You need one or more Static IP addresses if any of the following are true:
1. You run one or more Web servers directly on your site that require external access
2. You run one or more E-mail servers directly on your site that require external access
3. You run one or more File Transfer Protocol (FTP) servers directly on your site that require external access
4. You run any other service or 'Application' that requires external access. (Some Financial Terminal Client applications require that you have a static IP address for licensing purposes).
5. You allow 'incoming' Video Conferencing you may need to use static IP addresses.
For YourLink subscribers, one (1) Static IP address is included at no extra cost in our Small Office Advantage, Business, and Business Advantage packages. However, if required, additional Static IP addresses can be purchased by any YourLink subscriber. Please contact us for more details.
26. If I already have an existing email address through another Internet Service Provider, will I have to change it?
Depending on which subscriber package you choose, YourLink packages include from one up to twenty-five email addresses. However, if you prefer, you can typically keep your previous Internet Service Provider's email address, but most likely you'll be charged a monthly fee from that provider to do so. If you have an email address with one of the more popular email services available (ie: Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo, etc), and you're a YourLink subscriber, you can still access your email account via that email provider's website. So, you're not obligated to obtain a YourLink email address(es), but depending on your needs, it may be in your best interest to do so, from a cost and/or convenience perspective.
27. What will my YourLink e-mail address look like?
Currently, your email address can look like [alias]@yourlink.ca, where [alias] can be any combination of alpha/numeric characters of your choosing, that is not already being used by other YourLink email accounts.
28. Do you have an acceptable use policy for the internet services?
Yes. Please click here: Internet Acceptable Use Policy to access that information.
29. What if I want to change over to a different service package at some point in the future?
YourLink does not tie you to a particular service plan contract, so you are free to switch between service plans as often as you like. However, there is a minimum of thirty (30) days of service required when switching down to a lower level plan. Also, YourLink may offer special pricing to new subscribers that require them to sign a specific term contract. These contracts will include special terms and conditions that will be fully disclosed to those subscribers, when applicable.
New Business and Corporate subscribers are sometimes required to, and benefit from, signing a term contract with YourLink. This will include YourLink implementing and maintaining a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the new subscirber, which ensures a certain and specific reasonable level of service to be provided.
30. Do you offer "seasonal" service? If so, what are the details?
Yes, we do offer seasonal service for "snowbirds", etc., however, YourLink does charge a $25 re-activation fee (subject to change, plus all applicable taxes) for each time you request your service to be turned back on. However, there is no charge to temporarily de-activate your service. Please call YourLink's Customer Support line when a de-activation or activation is required, providing as much advance notice as possible. Also, keep in mind that if you're renting YourLink's hardware, the monthly rental fee will be charged on an ongoing basis, regardless of whether your Internet service is active or not.
31. Where can I find more information about YourLink?
See the "ABOUT YOURLINK" tab on our website's Home Page for more information.
32. Where does YourLink currently offer services?
Visit www.yourlink.ca, and click on the "Choose Your Location" drop-down box located on the Home Page, to select a specific location's Coverage Map. Or, you can view our entire Saskatchewan Coverage Map, which is also available on the Home Page.
33. How can we get YourLink to start offering Rural High Speed Internet services in our community?
We usually welcome the opportunity to consider partnering with rural municipalities or communities to possibly launch new services in their area(s). YourLink has actually accomplished this in the past, with much success. If this is applicable to your area, feel free to contact YourLink directly to discuss potential "partnering" opportunities. Dependent upon the area(s), as well as YourLink's network expansion plans and requirements, we may be interested in pursuing it further with you for your area or community.
34. If I have a question that's not included in the FAQ section, how do I get it answered?
Simply call us at 1-866-650-LINK (5465) or email us at moreinfo@yourlink.ca
35. Where can I learn more about fixed wireless broadband technology?
Additional information about fixed wireless broadband technology can be accessed at the following web site:
Fixed Wireless - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fixed_Wireless_Data