We've been asked many questions regarding the current state of wireless technology, how this technology compares to other popular connectivity methods, and our company in general.  Below is a listing of some of the questions posed to us.  If you have any additional questions, comments, or recommendations, feel free to share them with us by completing the simple feedback form on this site, or simply send an e-mail to info@tcsweb.com.

1.  QUESTION:  What is Broadband?

ANSWER:  Broadband refers to a range of technologies including cable modems, wireless (radio-modems) and other methods used to deliver large amounts of data.  Each has it's own benefits and limitations.  For example, Cable has been extremely popular in many areas because of it's low cost and wide availability .  However, cable has many drawbacks which significantly impact business users.  For example, cable is shared by everyone in a system so data is not secure.  In addition, speed is internally limited AND significantly impacted by other users' activities.

2.  QUESTION:  Why Broadband Internet?

ANSWER:  Reliance on the Internet has increased dramatically in recent years. The trend is it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. As demands increase so will bandwidth requirements. Common place utilization of the internet today include VPN tunneling for access to central services, streamlining data and voice services for remote offices and streaming video to reduce travel costs, increase productivity and ultimately boost productivity of the bottom line. These trends will only increase in the future and therefore the demand for reliable high-speed service becomes even greater.

3.  QUESTION:  Who is TCSweb?

ANSWER:  TCSweb was formed when the assets of Prominet, Inc. were purchased in February 2003.  Prominet was an Internet Service Provider (ISP) which created a wireless network in several cities across upstate NY.  The creation of TCSweb Communications blends the capabilities of former Prominet, Inc. and the lastest technology to bring Central New York a continually expanding coverage area as well as significant new service options that go well beyond mere Internet Access and e-mail.

4.  QUESTION:  How is TCSweb different from other broadband companies?

ANSWER:  TCSweb has chosen wireless technology to provide dedicated, private connections to each subscriber delivering speeds up to and faster than cable or commercial T-1 lines, all at a significant cost savings.  Our service is similar to satellite TV in that you need a small, special antenna which we will install and maintain.  The only downside is that our service is not yet available in all areas of upstate NY.  We are expanding quickly into areas based on customer demand. 

5.  QUESTION:  How secure is my data?

ANSWER:  Generally speaking, it's more secure on OUR network than on YOURS!  That because we encrypt all data and transmit on multiple frequencies which constantly change during transmission.  Although no system is completely foolproof, our technology (developed by the military) satisfies very stringent government requirements and is currently in use by hospitals to transfer confidential medical data between clinics and doctors offices.

6.  QUESTION:  What makes TCSweb wireless services better than alternatives that have been time-tested?

ANSWER:  This question is best answered by addressing the most popular alternatives independently.

• CABLE- TCSweb offers great security along with higher download speeds, significantly higher upload speeds, and private dedicated connections.  For businesses that use or require remote connectivity or virtual private network (VPN) access, or system offers even greater security and performance because we can often link your locations over our private network alone--no data needs to be sent over the Internet!

• DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER LINES (DSL)- TCSweb offers significantly higher speeds at similar lower prices and does not have the distance limitation (approximately 3 miles from the central office) often found with most DSL lines.

• T-1 DATA- These are the closest competitors to TCSweb, but are FAR more expensive (typically 3 to 4 times more).  T-1 lines also pass data at a maximum speed of 1.44Mbps per second, whereas TCSweb can deliver speeds up to 100Mbps per second.

7. QUESTION:  How will my TCSweb Communications equipment be installed?

ANSWER:  TCSweb's professional installers will provide installation services. Before your equipment is installed, the technician will evaluate your location to determine the best placement for your transceiver. This process is called a "SITE SURVEY."  Arrangements must be made to allow the technician access to the roof of your location.

Once proper line of site is determined, the technician will set up a convenient time to come to your location and install the service. This appointment generally takes between three to four hours. The installer will place a digital transceiver on the outside of your location (usually on the roof) and run a cable to the appropriate location in your facility. A broadband modem will be set up, configured, and connected to an available ethernet port on your office network. If you require additional configuration services or equipment, they are available at additional cost.

8. QUESTION:  Where can the antenna be mounted?

ANSWER:  TCSweb's broadband service relies on Radio Frequency technology which means  that an antenna must be mounted where it has visibility to one of our transmitters. Typically, the roof of your business / house or an eave is the best location for the equipment.