Arkansas.net: the do-whatcha-want ISP
Written: Dec 11 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great connection speed, almost no busy signals/bootage, web space, more!
Cons: none.
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| evansec's Full Review: Arkansas.net (AR) |
I joined Arkansas.net after getting my computer a year and a half ago. My brother had used the ISP for several months and told me it was the best ISP he had ever used.
So, I tried it out on his computer. I was highly impressed by the fast connection speed, lack of busy signals during dialup, and the fact that it didn't require that I login through a bizarre, AOL-like window.
I signed up for the service as soon as my computer arrived. I have no desire to go to another internet service provider. My service with Arkansas.net has been the best I've ever experienced.
You can sign up for an Arkansas.net account either online or from software (which you can pick up at local distributors, receive by mail, or borrow from a friend.) Either way, you have to pay an initial registration fee of about $25.00 and a monthly fee of $20. That may seem a bit pricey, but considering all you get for the cost, it is an excellent tradeoff.
The software includes an easy-to-follow setup application and the latest version of Netscape Communicator. Although this is the suggested application for use by Arkansas.net, you can remove netscape after installing the software and use any e-mail or browsing application you choose. Unlike AOL, the program will not be dysfunctional if you try to do what you want to do.
Every Arkansas.net member immediately has 3 megs of web space. There's a short signup process, but the space is great, especially for those who have to go to geocities or other "free" web sites that are loaded with pop-up windows and slow connections. With the exception of illegal items such as warez and what-not, the space is yours, not sponsored by some random corporate entity.
Also, arkansas.net has an informative homepage for members and prospective members. Members have access to account and billing information, current network status, and can even use webmail, a hotmail-like service that allows all members to easily check their e-mail from anywhere.
Prospective members can receive detailed information on the ISP, order software, and even sign up for a new membership.
Arkansas.net also has a partnership with Southwestern Bell for DSL access. It was also one of the first local ISPs to offer 56K connection speeds to its members, indicating that arkansas.net strives to be up-to-date with its customers.
Billing is available by check, automatic check draft, or credit card payments. Which brings me to the best part of all:
If you sign up a friend for Arkansas.net, you receive ten dollars off your next bill. The company also has partner programs in which you can distribute software for compensation. I know of few ISPs in the state who have these benefits.
I've tried relentlessly to convince my AOL friends to convert to Arkansas.net. Sadly, they stand by their beliefs in the internet giant as I watch them suffer slow connections and wait every third time they log in for their software to be "updated." Arkansas.net allows me to have an ISP that I control. I never have to experience busy signals, abrupt disconnections or a gawd-awful "You've Got Mail" message. All I get is my computer, a great connection, and choice.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
evansec
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Member: Eleanor C. Evans
Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Reviews written: 150
Trusted by: 55 members
About Me:
What can I say? I'm a music fan and a writer.
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