FAQ's

What do I need to access the service?
You will need two things to begin using Cowes Broadband. First you will need a laptop or handheld with Wi-Fi 802.11b/g wireless capability. Your existing device may already have this capability built-in. If not, you can purchase a Wi-Fi 802.11b/g wireless networking card for most laptops and many handhelds from major electronics retailers or direct from the manufacturer. When your device is wireless-enabled, scan for the COWESBB network and click connect. Refer to your wireless network card and operating system or pda device manual for for specific instructions on how to do this. Second, you will need a standard Internet-ready browser on any operating system. No additional software is required.

How do I send and receive emails using Cowes Broadband?
The Cowes Broadband network provides an SMTP relay. This means that email will work seamlesly over our network without you needing to make any changes to your settings.
You can also access any web-based e-mail account such as Yahoo.com or Hotmail.com.
You may not be able to receive mail if your mail server is on a private network at your office, so you’ll have to ask your administrator how to access your mail from the Internet.

Is there a download limit?
No. Cowes Broadband is perfect for uploading or downloading large files at fast speed. Usage is based on time rather than data transfer amount.

Will I be able to send and receive large files by email when using Cowes Broadband?
You may be able to send large emails but please remember that a recipient's email account may limit the amount of data accepted. We suggest that you limit emails and attachments to 10MB.

How do I connect to banking, financial institution and other secure shopping Internet sites?
Once you're connected to the Internet using Cowes Broadband, you'll be able to access any of the sites you'd normally be able to visit. You won't need any special settings, but, upon signing in to your banking account, please remember to look for the padlock icon on your browser and click on it to confirm that the security certificate is valid.

Can I use my laptop and Cowes Broadband to make voice calls?
Voice over IP (VoIP) products such as Skype can be used when you’re logged into Cowes Broadband and connected to the Internet.

How do I connect to my company network?
Once you've successfully logged into Cowes Broadband, you'll need to follow your company's procedures to access your Virtual Private Network (VPN) - the same process you would normally use to access your corporate network remotely.

How fast is the Cowes Broadband service?
The Cowes Broadband service allows for speeds up to 54 Mbs depending on your proximity to an access point.

I am in Cowes. How do I log on to Cowes Broadband?
Please go to http://cowesbroadband.com/howto.php for instructions on how to log on to Cowes Broadband.

What operating systems are currently compatible with the service?
Cowes Broadband is not OS-specific, and will work with any operating systems as long as there is a compatible, Internet-ready browser such as Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox.

How do I know if my wireless network card is supported by Cowes Broadband?
Cowes Broadband is a Wi-Fi 802.11b/g network; therefore, any Wi-Fi certified wireless network card will work. Look for the Wi-Fi certification on the wireless network card before purchasing it.

Does Cowes Broadband provide me with an e-mail account?
Cowes Broadband does not provide e-mail accounts for its users.

Can I connect using a Macintosh computer?
Yes, Cowes Broadband supports Macintosh users. Macs with AirPort cards installed usually require little or no configuration. You will need to set your AirPort card to select the Cowes Broadband network. See the AirPort card documentation for specific instructions.

Can I connect using handheld devices, such as Palm, Windows Mobile or iPhone?
Yes, handhelds that support Wi-Fi 802.11b/g wireless technology and utilise a standard Internet-ready browser, are compatible with the Cowes Broadband network.

What if I have problems accessing Cowes Broadband?
If you are experiencing any problems accessing Cowes Broadband, please contact us via the following weblink: http://cowesbroadband.com/contact.php. We appreciate your business and apologise for any inconvenience you may experience.

How do I pay?
The Cowes Broadband service is a pay as you go service and you will be asked to pay by credit or debit card prior to gaining access to the Internet service.

Are there any terms and conditions that apply to using Cowes Broadband?
As a condition of service, you are required to agree to the Terms and Conditions of Service of using Cowes Broadband.

Where can I find a list of the pricing options you offer?
Visit the Pricing page http://cowesbroadband.com/pricing.php

Can I receive a refund for unused minutes?
Unused minutes are non-refundable.