Technology FAQ

• What is an On-Net building? On-Net buildings are multi-tenant commercial buildings that are directly connected to Vector's microwave network. Vector's equipment is already installed on the building's rooftop and in its telecommunications rooms, so getting access to Vector's service in these buildings is quick and easy.
• How does the installation process work? Once you submit a request for service through our website or by phone, a Vector representative will verify that your location can receive a signal from one of Vector's towers. Once this is done, you will be contacted to schedule an installation date. An installer will be dispatched to your premises and will install the necessary equipment in your building and connect it to your computer or router. There is no waiting for the telephone company involved!
• What sort of equipment will I need to receive an Internet connection from Vector? Vector places a small “subscriber module” on your building rooftop, wall, or other accessible outdoor surface. The module is about the size of a shoe, and connects to your computer or network using a single run of CAT-5 networking cable. If you are in a multi-tenant unit building that is part of Vector's "On-Net" program, you will be provided with a module that links your suite to the microwave equipment already mounted on your building rooftop.
• What if I don’t own my business building? Can I still mount the subscriber module on the property? See http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html for details on the FCC's "Over the air reception devices" rule, which applies to Vector's equipment. This rule gives wireless internet subscribers the right to mount equipment on the exterior of a building.
• Is your service simply a large outdoor Wi-Fi network? Absolutely not. The link between your business and Vector’s towers is a highly reliable and secure microwave connection. It is engineered to work in all weather conditions. It shares little in common with current local-area wireless technologies such as 802.11b (Wi-Fi).
• How is your service different from satellite Internet access? Vector's microwave network is completely terrestrial-based. This means that Vector's Internet connections do not experience the slow speeds and high latency common with satellite Internet service. Also, Vector's service is not affected by weather conditions such as heavy rainstorms.
• Will your service provide wireless access for my onsite computers? Vector's Internet access plans provide a wired Ethernet handoff to customer equipment. We can install a local Wi-Fi access point at your location for an additional fee, which will allow any portable devices such as laptops to connect through Vector's Internet connection.
• Can I connect multiple computers to an Internet connection provided by Vector? Yes. Vector will work with you to supply the necessary additional IP addresses and/or router needed to connect your entire local network to the Internet. Note, however, that Vector's terms of service agreement prohibits customers from sharing with or reselling service to other individuals or entities outside of the customer's business.
• Is Vector’s service compatible with my operating system? Vector uses no proprietary software or connection protocols at its customer demarcation point. In other words, it's almost guaranteed that your operating system will be able to connect to the Internet using Vector’s service.
• Will Vector host my website or Email system? Yes, Vector includes website and email hosting with its Internet access service and offers hosting for more complex needs. See the Plans and Pricing page for details. You will be provided with a hosting management interface that will allow you to perform account maintenance such as adding email accounts or updating web content 24/7.
• Are your hosting and network services reliable too? Vector maintains redundant high-capacity microwave connections from its datacenter to one of the region's premier carrier hotels. Our data travels over the best possible network to its destination- a number of high-quality carriers such as Sprint, AT&T, Level 3, XO communications, and more are used. Our datacenter is owned exclusively by Vector and is equipped with advanced power backup, environmental control, security, and fire prevention equipment. You can rest assured that your website, email, and other hosted services will be available at all times.