Frequently Asked Questions
1) Q: How fast will my connection be?
A: CDS Wireless Internet Service is designed to be an alternative to wired products. The service levels offered are comparable to wired services. Keep in mind that our service is NOT a satellite product and does NOT have the shortcomings of Satellite service nor the shortcomings of a cellular hotspot service. There are NO quotas or caps on usage.
2) Q: Can I connect more than one computer?
A: Yes, you may connect as many computers and devices as you wish. Our staff is ready to assist you with networking your computer within your home or business. Most routers are intended to be installed by the customer with the customer’s own information but we will assist if you get stuck. You may connect any of the traditional routers available at local stores. Routers are a personal preference item. Many folks like to use Apple products if all their equipment is Apple. Others have a mixed assortment in their home or business. It is really a personal choice and all will work.
3) Q: Is there a limit to how much I can use the service or is there a limit to the amount of file downloads or Video usage?
A: No. CDS provides true unlimited use of the Internet. There is no limit to usage and CDS does NOT throttle down because of high usage nor are there any surcharges for usage.
4) Q: Will the service support VOIP such as Vonage or other telephone services?
A: Yes, unlike Satellite service, the Fixed Base wireless service provided by CDS supports all traditional internet services. In fact, CDS also will provide a telephone line over the internet to replace your old wired telephone service if you wish. We charge $25 per month flat fee with no long-distance charges for a phone line. This is an excellent way to get a fax line and not have to pay the high cost of a single phone line through the phone company.
5) Q: Can I keep my existing email address?
A: Yes, you can keep all your existing services and CDS will also provide additional email accounts at no charge if desired.
6): Q: Do I need to have a phone line connection for this service?
A: No, Only the one connection that we provide is necessary which is pure wireless link from one of our 52 local tower sites in Sonoma, Mendocino, Napa and Marin counties.
7): Q How secure is the connections?
A: Secure Authentication is used on every linked radio on the CDS system. As always, you must secure your own router’s wireless access using WPA or WPA2 security and your own access code to prevent neighbors and other folks from accessing your internet service. This, of course, is the same for all internet service providers.
8) Q: Can I get a static IP address if I want one?
A: Yes. CDS can provide you with a static IP if needed.
9) Q: Will the circuit support VPN (Virtual Private Network)?
A: Yes.
10) Q: Will the service support security cameras and other such devices?
A: Yes, it will support security cameras and other such equipment such as frost alert equipment etc.
11) Q: How much does it cost?
A: Service levels are available starting at $69.95 per month. Speeds profiles are adjustable as desired with a phone call. We as Internet providers have generally found that Video such as Netflix and other TV type video is the number one draw on internet bandwidth. Typically our standard plan will provide an excellent level of internet service. If you find that you have a high demand of video services, we can provide you higher bandwidth with a phone call although you may find that our standard package is sufficient. Each level of service usually is about $20 per month higher. Keep in mind that there are no caps or quotas on usage. You are only adjusting the speed level.
12) Q: If I have a problem with my service, whom do I call?
A: CDS Wireless Inc completely controls all of the internet circuits. All customer service comes directly from us. CDS owns and operates 52 tower sites and these sites are not shared with any other Internet Service providers.
13) Q: How often does the service go out and does weather affect the service.
A: 99% of the time power outages are the cause for outages. Our systems are monitored 24/7 and we are made aware of outages very quickly. When an outage occurs, especially if this happens after hours, we update our voice mail service line with the information. The voice mail system can handle many calls at once and provide you with the necessary information. Weather does NOT affect the service. Most customers are only transmitting a few miles. Keep in mind that heavy weather can cause power outages and even though our systems have power backups, that can only last for a certain period. Some of our major tower sites have back-up generators that automatically kick on with a power outage. We purchase our internet service from major providers and typically it is provided to us via Fiber optic cable but there have been times when even the fiber optic cables have failed because of heavy weather dropping trees on the circuits.
14) Q: What happens if a piece of equipment fails?
A: CDS Wireless owns and maintains all of your equipment. If a piece of equipment fails under normal operation, CDS replaces the equipment at no charge to you for the equipment. Over time, equipment may need to be upgraded and cables also can wear from the elements. CDS will only charge a nominal service call fee. The equipment will be replaced at our expense.
15) Q: How long have you been in business?
A: CDS Wireless has been providing Internet services since 1995 although CDS Enterprises started business in 1979.
16) Q: How big is the piece of equipment and the antennas that you install?
A: The equipment size varies depending on which tower site we use for your service. We always are looking for the strongest signal and some equipment will penetrate through the trees easier than others. Sometimes on long distances, we may use larger dish type collector antennas. CDS has customers as far away as 22 miles from the access point. Typically you can expect the equipment to be similar in size to a DirecTV antenna.
17) Q: What is the contract period for the service.
A: There is no contract nor contract period. CDS only provides a service agreement which states that if you desire to terminate service, that CDS will be able to recover its equipment either by you returning it to our office in Santa Rosa or a CDS technician be allowed to come to the property and retrieve it.
