Common Questions
- Will I have to learn anything new to use CloudBurst™?
- What are some benefits to having fast Internet access?
- Is this like cable modem or DSL?
- Is this the same as “satellite” Internet?
- Does Cloud Alliance cap data or throttle to slower speeds?
- Can I run servers on this connection?
- Do I need a phone line?
- How long will it take to install?
- Can I get busy signals?
- Is CloudBurst™ fixed-wireless available in my area?
- Are there any disadvantages to fixed-wireless?
- Do cordless phones interfere with my connection?
- Does the weather affect my reception?
- Do I have to pay the full rate, if I am away?
Will I have to learn anything new to use CloudBurst™?
If you already know how to use a web browser, you will find our system totally transparent. You are always online. You simply start your web browser software (Edge, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, etc.), and you are online with no delay–no waiting for a free line or a connection. To receive and send your e-mail, you may access your account via the Web (through the browser), or use a mail client (Outlook, Outlook Express, Thunderbird, Apple Mail, etc.).
What are some benefits to having fast Internet access?
With slow internet connections, you might find yourself sitting at your computer, waiting a long time just for one home page to load. Most web pages contain a lot more information in the form of text, pictures, video, sound, or other files (such as software. With CloudBurst™ fixed wireless broadband, there is no need to wait! You can stream videos in real-time, make Internet phone calls, play your favorite music in real time, send instant messages, send and receive all types of files at downpour speeds.
Best of all, general browsing and use of the internet is finally enjoyable. You can do research on anything imaginable. You can pay your bills or trade stocks online. And, of course, shopping online is what it was meant to be: easy and fun! It’s easier for you to start your own business, working from home or a rural office. You could sell things on Ebay, for example, or hire yourself out freelance.
Is this like cable modem or DSL?
CloudBurst™ fixed-wireless data transmission rates are comparable to those of cable modem or DSL. These services are typically not available in much of our service area. Cable modem service and DSL are dependent on physical wires and out-of-state corporations. With CloudBurst™ there are no wires, and you deal directly with a local company.
Is this the same as “satellite” Internet?
No. CloudBurst™ fixed-wireless broadband doesn’t use satellite signals. The major disadvantages of satellite Internet are slow upload speeds and the high latency (delay time) due to use of satellites in geosynchronous orbit 22,240 miles away. Satellite Internet latency times preclude the use of Voice over Internet Protocol telephone service. See our satellite Internet comparison pages for more.
Does Cloud Alliance cap data or throttle to slower speeds?
We never do either of these! We believe you are entitled to count on our plans, all the time, no matter how much you use them. Contrast that with cable, cellular, satellite, and certain fixed wireless offerings.
Can I run servers on this connection?
Normally, no, you may not run servers through an access connection. If you need to run servers, contact us to inquire about pricing and setup.
Do I need a phone line?
No, a phone isn’t needed.
How long will it take to install?
Once your location has been surveyed and approved for CloudBurst™ access, a date will be set for installing your unit. Installation of the equipment could take from an hour and a half to several hours. We typically allot three hours. Each location is different. We apologize that we cannot give you a more precise timeframe, but it all depends on the necessary location of your antenna. We know you will be extremely pleased with the service, once it’s up and running!
Can I get busy signals?
No. You have an Internet connection 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our wireless connections require no phone lines, making it impossible to get a busy signal.
Is CloudBurst™ fixed-wireless available in my area?
Cloud Alliance is continuing to add repeating stations to expand access. If you are registered, as soon as we determine that your location can receive service, we will arrange a site inspection to confirm a wireless connection. If you know where our access points (base station and repeating stations) are, and you can see oneâ, then you should be able to get a working signal. Even if you cannot see an access point, wireless links are possible over several miles and through forests. A site survey must be done prior to installing any wireless hardware.
Are there any disadvantages to fixed-wireless?
Fixed-wireless generally delivers a stronger signal than mobile-wireless. It can be positively amazing how fixed-wireless broadband connections can be made from deep in the woods. Cloud Alliance CloudBurst™ does require direct radio line-of-sight, uninterrupted by rocks and dirt. Generally, if you can’t get a direct radio line-of-sight from your location to one of our stations, Cloud Alliance will be unable to provide you with service until a line-of-sight connection is established with a new repeating station. Though most standard installations suffice, installation costs can vary (depending on location). Getting the service may be a challenge; enjoying it is assured!
Do cordless phones interfere with my connection?
No. Cordless phones do not operate on any of our LTE frequencies, so they cannot interfere.
Does the weather affect my reception?
No. Unlike satellite signals or wireless “hotspot” signals, CloudBurst™ fixed-wireless broadband is not typically affected by weather.
Do I have to pay the full rate, if I am away?
If you’re a seasonal resident, a snowbird, or an extensive traveler, this is for you: We realize you have expenses wherever you go and would like to avoid the full cost of CloudBurst™ fixed wireless broadband, when you’re away for long periods of time. The seasonal Equipment Retention Plan is the solution. Click here to read all about it.