Products - Internet

Getting onto the Internet:

The large number of ISP's (Internet Service Providers) and plans availables can be confusing. Masterlink has aligned itself with two Service providers for two very simple reasons.

  1. They're Australian
  2. They will explain what's on offer in simple, straight forward terms

Masterlink Computers Qld recommends

  1. Westnet
  2. Internode

You're welcome to call us or come in for a chat. However we also recommend contacting these Service Providers directly. They have really nice people on the phones based in Australia... and we gaurantee they won't try to pressure you into a decision.

Here are a few questions you can ask...

  1. Is there a contract. If so, how long is it for? How much will it cost if I want to break the contract and for making my commitment to you, what do you gaurantee in return.
  2. If this is a "new" connection. How much is the "connection fee"? This fee is originally charged by Telstra for doing very little at your exchange. ISP's usually pass this fee on, however sometimes they will subsidise the cost as a promotion. At the time of writing this page the fee was $99.
  3. if this is a new connection then you will need a modem. Some ISP's will sell you a modem when signing up. If so, it should be pre-configured so all you need to do is plug it in. If you go for a comprehensive plan including services like "VOIP", then you may need to buy your modem from the Service Provider. However, there are added advantages to buying a modem from a store (preferably one with technicians behind the counter, and not salesman). An I.T. store will usually configure your modem, you have a local point of sale in case of warranty and you can be properly advised on which modem is best for your particular situation.
  4. If this is not a new connection and you just want to change from your existing ISP, then there will usually be a charge unless you commit to a contract term or purchase one of the more expensive plans. Changing from one ISP to another is called "churning" which when I last checked was $25 (please note prices are constantly changing).
  5. How much data can I download a month? Download is usually measured in Gigabytes. If the information you're given doesn't make sense, ask for an example of how much you can download. Emails and visiting web pages don't use very much as a rule. However if you're going to download videos or photos you'll need to be sure you have enough allowance.
  6. What happens if I exceed my limit? Some plans will charge you an "excess" per "megabyte" you go over the limit. A megabyte isn't really very much, so if you are on one of these plans, the excess you need to pay can be considerable. If possible go for a plan with "shaping". Shaping is when the speed of your connection is slowed down when you reach your limit. Usually the slowed speed is about the same as a "dial-up" connection and it is reset to normal speed when you have reached the end of your billing month.
  7. So what about support...? good question.... Some ISP's will try to discourage you from calling their help desk by submitting you to an infuriating automated phone system only to finally get a person you can't understand. If this fails you will then need to phrase your query carefully giving just the right answers. If the help desk operator can't follow your problem on their flow chart, then you can quite simply be told your modem isn't supported, it's the computers fault or be escalated to a help desk in Delhi. If you consider support when choosing your ISP (and you should), then go with an Aussie company. We've listed two, but there are many others. Consider buying your plan through an agent. A good agent will configure your modem and ensure you get "online". Ongoing support isn't offered free by agents, however having someone local who is familiar with your setup can be very useful.

The above questions don't cover such things as "VOIP" (Voice Over Internet Protocol - i.e. using your phone through the internet) or "bunding" services, such as switching your phone over to your new ISP as well. However, it's a start and from these questions you should get plenty of lead-ins to ask more.

 

Westnet - Broadband Provider, Internet, Phone and Web Hosting Westnet - Satellite Broadband Provider

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Masterlink has forged a number of partnerships in order to secure a full range of products at affordable prices. We fully recommend the following:

 

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Business & Residential Internet Plans & Hosting

We can advise on products available from Westnet and work with you to find the plan that best suits your needs. Masterlink can also assist with setting up your modem, sorting our installation problems and if necessary "churn" you over from an existing ISP (Internet Service Provider).

SUBMIT A WESTNET SUPPORT REQUEST

Phone: 1300 786 068
Email: Westnet Support
Fax: 1300 554 160

 

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AGENTS

 

XPOS_eft.jpgPhone & Internet Recharges

We have XPOS Services, which offer: 

Phone & Internet Pre-paid Recharges - Sale of Event Tickets, including selected Tourist Attractions - Magazine Subscriptions - International Calling Cards

...and much, much more!!! 

 

 

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Internet Kiosk Installers

SmartTimer Internet Kiosks are all over Australia, providing access at Caravan Parks, Back Packers, Libraries and anywhere where people need to keep in touch.

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Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 + 1 YEAR EXTRA (FREE)

1 Computer for 1 year (RRP $79) - Masterlink Computers Price $59

3 Computers for 1 years (RRP $109) - Masterlink Computers Price $99

We fully recommend this product. From our experience Kaspersky is reliable, doesn't slow some older computers down like other products and  represents true value.

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Masterlink Recommends K9 Web Protection. Give us a call today on 41255077 for more information