FAQ’s
Where is netBlazr located?
We are based in Boston, operating initially out of the Back Bay, South End, Symphony, and Fenway neighborhoods. See our network here.
Where does your Internet come from?
netBlazr contracts with Cogent Communications for high bandwidth optical circuits, which we distribute via our low-cost wireless network throughout Boston.
How much does the access equipment cost?
A standard radio node costs $299. You can install this yourself, or select an IT professional to install it, or have netBlazr install it at a market competitive rate. Once installed you will be able to connect to our affordable broadband network.
What kind of services do you offer?
We offer two types of broadband service: Shared Services and Dedicated Circuits. “Shared Services” is a form of bandwidth that is shared by a group of customers (similar to DSL or cable modem.) “Dedicated Circuits” are bandwidth that provides committed data rates for each customer. Check out our “Service Pricing” page for more information on each service.
Does your service include IP addresses?
Yes, all our plans include 1 public (static) IP address. Additional IP addresses are available for an additional fee, see Service Pricing for details.
What kind of equipment do you use?
netBlazr uses commercially available radios and routers, from trusted brands like Ubiquiti and MikroTik.
Do you do custom installations?
If your office requires non-traditional hardware, because you are far from another netBlazr node (wireless connection point) or other RF difficulties, netBlazr can perform custom installations which may cost extra.
What are your installation options?
Installation can be performed by your IT service provider, a certified channel partner, or your own IT staff. netBlazr will supervise all installations to ensure optimal reliability and performance.
What kinds of customer service do you offer?
All of our support is online. Our website has a blog and news feed to ensure all customers are kept up to date with all information from netBlazr.
Where do I install my netBlazr radios?
Because netBlazr uses “line of sight” microwave radio connections, you must place them in or near the windows of your office or on the roof of you building to ensure optimal reliability and performance.
What if my office doesn’t have “line of sight” access to the netBlazr network?
netBlazr is rapidly expanding our coverage footprint and due to the viral nature of our network, we increase with every new customer added. If you are not currently accessible to our network, please join our wait list to be notified when we’re in your neighborhood.
Are there any restrictions on netBlazr placing an antenna on my roof?
No. The FCC’s Over-the-Air Reception Device Rule bans “restrictions that impair the installation, maintenance or use of antennas used to receive video programming.” The FCC has since extended it to protect the right of renters to set up antennas within areas they control, such as balconies or porches, and to cover wireless-broadband receivers, like the ones used by netBlazr.
What happens if the radio upstream from me goes down?
We seek to provide each member node in netBlazr’s network with a minimum of two paths back to the “head-end” broadband supply. That is why our standard kit includes 3 UBiQUiTi radios. If a radio upstream from you goes down, your router will detect the change and switch to an alternate path automatically.
Can I use existing wiring in my office to install netBlazr equipment?
Yes, if the wiring is cat5 fast Ethernet cable that can support up 100 Mbps data rates. Note, the radios are powered via PoE injectors, so your wiring must support that capability. The PoE injectors can be located in an IT closet with the netBlazr router, when using preexisting wiring.
What if my office windows have metallic tints or low-E glass?
Many windows use a non-metallic process to achieve low-E ratings or reflective characteristics, but some do use metals in the tints or the glass itself. The physical properties of metal impedes the transmission of ALL radio waves: cellular, PCS, WiFi and netBlazr alike. Most windows are compatible with the netBlazr, but we will conduct a site survey of your location to ensure the correct equipment is installed.
Who do I call if my netBlazr service goes down?
netBlazr’s culture of transparency provides our members with many support options. If you are experiencing technical problems, please check our network operations console (coming soon) for a live view of our entire network. We have nothing to hide; you’ll have the same visibility to an outage that we’ll have.
Should I use a UPS for my netBlazr equipment
Yes, we strongly recommend that you plug your netBlazr equipment into an uninterruptible power supply (UPS.) As a member of netBlazr you benefit from the reliability of other members and they are similarly dependent upon you. This co-dependence is a unique aspect of our business model and one of the reasons we are able to provide such inexpensive service.
Should I cancel my service with my current Internet Service Provider?
We do not recommend canceling your existing internet service. netBlazr is designed to be an affordable source to boost your broadband internet speed. This way, your company’s internet needs are provided over two separate paths ensuring redundancy and additional bandwidth at a low cost.
If you can’t find the answer in the FAQ or elsewhere on our website, please contact support@netblazr.com.
