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High Demand for Low-Cost Satellite Internet(AllAfrica Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Internet service provider AfricaOnline has introduced low-cost satellite Internet for Namibia, which the company says has been met with an overwhelming response. The nationwide launch of the service follows a limited launch earlier. AfricaOnline says there is currently a long waiting list of customers. Satellite Internet customers range from lodges and farms to small towns, as well as large corporate clients in larger centres. "The product is a breakthrough in terms of cost alone. The base rate is N$500 per month, and the out-of-bundle top-up rates compare extremely favourably with other products on the market. We explored the product with a view to making Internet affordable in small communities, isolated areas and at lodges, but this also competes in urban areas," said AfricaOnline General Manager Marc Gregan. NawaSat is made possible by a cooperation agreement with satellite service provider SES, which owns a network of 52 satellites in a geosynchronous orbit around the globe. "SES has an exceptional track record of providing digital communication, from major international broadcasters to homes and villages in remote areas. In the latter regard, we were particularly impressed by their track record on the African continent. They have established networks for major non-governmental organisations and government institutions, and we will explore that avenue," said Gregan. He said Namibia has passed the point where the spread of the Internet was a strategic issue. "With access spreading like wildfire, we now need to begin thinking of quality and consistency of bandwidth, not just for mobile browsing, but particularly for enterprise. NawaSat is a very viable alternative. The challenge, we believe, is not to replace existing infrastructure, but to complement it. We have seen on several occasions that reliance on one point of entry for data is a strategic vulnerability that has in some instances disrupted countries and regions. NawaSat adds to the stock of Internet infrastructure, and the security of Namibian enterprise," Gregan said. The company further says the managed environment that it provides is particularly important in securing the environment for Internet users. "AfricaOnline servers are kept free of unwanted guests, and the spam and virus firewalls have stopped countless phishing attacks and attempts at viral infections." The equipment cost is very affordable. In fact, it is priced in the same bracket as most household appliances. We also offer the opportunity for subscribers to rent a part of the package. Satellite has become affordable, and we are proud once again to lead in technological innovation," Gregan said. Copyright New Era. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). |