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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our services? You may call our Customer Service representatives at 1(800) 982-7675 for answers. Check back for updates to our website while we continually add more information to aid our customers.

  

WIRELESS INTERNET

  
GENERAL
How can I set up an account with SOFTCOM?

If you are looking to start an account with Softcom, you may speak with a sales representative over the phone by calling (800) 982-7675 or visit the office in person at 545 Industrial Drive #195 in Galt, CA. The sales representative will take your information and then determine your eligibility for services based on your location.

What do I need to setup an account?

When you setup an account with SOFTCOM, we will ask for the following: A valid Driver’s License for security purposes and a current credit or debit card to keep on file for monthly auto-charges.

How much are monthly fees?

It depends which service you are looking into. Some customers are eligible for lower rates than others, and rates depend mostly on location. We offer high-speed services starting at $19.95, but fees vary considerably based on which plan you choose. To see what pricing you qualify for, contact a sales representative at 1 (800) 982-7675.

Do I have to purchase my equipment?

No. Over time, we have adjusted our equipment policy so we no longer charge customers for the equipment on their homes. Equipment is the strict and sole property of Softcom and is not to be tampered with or altered in any way by anyone other than a Softcom technician. In the event that your equipment needs replacing, Softcom may do so free of charge. TKeep in mind that “equipment” refers only to the items we install in or on your home to make the connection available. Customers are responsible for purchasing other items such as routers, modems, or router-modem combinations.

How long do I have to wait to get service with Softcom after signing up?

The installation schedule here at Softcom can vary, especially during seasons with frequent fluctuations in weather. Typically a customer must wait around a week for their service installation, but our customer service representatives will not hesitate to schedule you earlier if there is an opening. Bear in mind that each installation is deemed “weather permitting” and Softcom has the right to cancel appointments when ambient conditions are not suitable for the safety of our technicians. If such an event arises, we will notify you of this change and make an effort to reschedule your installation at your convenience. As soon as our technician has installed your equipment, your Internet is ready to use!

How is the service installed?

With all of our wireless services, we place an antenna on your home (typically along the roofline where it receives the best signal) and run a cable along the outside of your home. We then run this cable into your home directly to your computer or--if you like--a wireless router if you wish to enable a wireless network in your home. We also provide custom installations for customers with special requests available for an extra fee.

Do I need to be home for an installation?

Yes. When a technician installs your equipment, he or she is required to enter your home in order to establish a connection with your computer or router. The technician will enter your home to test the Internet connection and ensure it is fully functioning.

How long can I expect an installation to take?

Depending on the type of service you have and the nature of your installation, a technician may take up to 3-4 hours to install your service. In some situations, the cabling of your home may be more complex which takes a little more effort and time!

What does it mean to make my connection “wireless”?

If you are a customer who would like to use multiple devices on their Internet connection, you need to set up a wireless network. These devices can include smartphones, laptops, tablets, cable boxes, gaming systems, and much more. Whatever devices it is that you plan on using, if you plan on connecting more than one device at once, you will want a wireless connection. Enabling a wireless network is as simple as purchasing a wireless router. A wireless router can typically be bought at any location that carries electronic equipment, or you may purchase one with Softcom for $59.99. If you would like to speak with someone regarding what router is best for you, you may call our technicians for free to get advice from a professional.

Does it matter what brand or make of router I purchase?

Yes. While some generic brands work, they do not have the longevity of more popular and reliable brands like Linksys or Netgear. A router is likely to be a long-term investment, and is worth paying more for quality. However, do not pay more for a router that you do not need. While a High Powered router might sound appealing, it is probably not necessary. Unless you plan to network over a large area (separate homes or buildings) you do not need to purchase a High Power router. Standard routers are known to provide connections throughout a home, even larger, multi-story residences.

Will my current router be compatible with Softcom's service?

Almost all brands and makes of routers are welcomed by Softcom. However, we have encountered issues with Linksys E-Series Routers; these routers have been known to cause frequent disconnects and therefore are not advisable if you are a wireless customer. Additionally, any 2-wire or modem/router combination devices that you may have purchased for DSL Service will not function with our Wireless Service. If you have questions about what router you should purchase or if your current router is compatible, feel free to contact our technicians for further information.

What is a Static IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address identifies a computer or other device on the Internet for the purposes of sending or receiving data. It is much lika a telephone number. Having a static IP enables you to host a server, setup VPN's, or remotely administer your computer. You will always know where on the internet your machine is because it is not moving around.

What is the difference between your 5.2, 900, WiMAX, & OFDM services?

The 5.2, 900, WiMAX & OFDM services are all part of our “Fixed Wireless” system. These services are all installed in an identical fashion, but they differ in the way they function. For instance, the 900 antennas are better at receiving a signal over longer distances and work better when there are interferences (like trees) in between your home and the host tower. During your installation, the technician will determine which antenna is best suited for your home.

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BILLING

May I pay for service a year in advance?

No, Softcom has recently changed their billing system to accept payments strictly on a monthly basis. You may only pay up to 3 months of service in advance.

Do you offer senior discounts?

Not at this time.

What does it mean for my account to be set up to auto charge and when do I get billed?

All new wireless customers are contractually obligated to pay their fees with our auto charge system. Each account that is set to auto charge is on an automatic billing system where a debit or credit card of your choice is billed automatically on the 1st of every month. We find that it is an easy and convenient system for our customers who need not worry themselves with sending in a check every month.

Can my account be charged on a day other than the 1st?

No. Each account is scheduled for billing on the 1st and we do not make exceptions. The only instance in which we would not bill your card on the 1st is when we receive a payment from a customer prior to the 1st of the month.

May I receive my monthly invoices in the mail?

We do not send statements in the mail to our customers on auto charge. If your account is set up for auto charge, then you must manually request an invoice by calling us at 1 (800) 982-7675 and asking one of our customer service representatives to mail you a copy.

Does Softcom offer online payments?

Unfortunately we do not at this time, however, we plan to implement this change into our new billing system.

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CITY-WIDE WIFI

What is the City-Wide Wifi Service and how does it work?

Our City-Wide Wifi is a High-Speed Internet service that allows customers within the Galt city limits to obtain a High-Speed Wireless connection. Many residents of the city will see a Softcom connection accessible from their wireless devices—This connection is available through our City-Wide Service. The service is made available by a series of “nodes” throughout the city that transmit a wireless signal. If your residence or business is located within range of these nodes, you may be eligible for City-Wide Wifi service, with download speeds up to 6Mbps. In order to create a connection at your location, we will need to install an antenna so that it will communicate and receive a signal from our nodes. Whether you work or live in the City of Galt, our City-Wide Wifi service is a fast and inexpensive alternative to Wireless Internet.

If I have a Wifi Account, can I connect to any of the wireless connections throughout the city of Galt?

Theoretically, if you can pick up a wireless connection on your internet-capable device, then you can connect. You may need to contact our technicians to speak with a professional to ensure you can access this connection from your device. However, you cannot connect a device at home and remotely simultaneously. You are only permitted a single login, which means you cannot use your connection at home and in the city of Galt at the same time. However, if you would like the option of having a home and roaming connection, you may obtain a secondary login for just $9.95 a month. Call us to set up an additional login today at 1 (800) 982-7675.

What is the difference between a standard Wifi Account and an NE (Non-Equipment) Account and why do the costs differ?

To obtain our standard City-Wide Wifi Service at your home, we must install an antenna on your residence. This equipment allows you to connect to the wireless signal transmitted by our nodes. However, some of our customers are within such close range of another’s antenna that it is not necessary to install a new antenna at their residence. Because these connections do not necessitate expensive equipment, we offer eligible customers an even cheaper alternative. We encourage our customers who can receive a signal in their home without needing our equipment to take advantage of our “NE” option.

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SOFTCOM Internet Communications

  1. 545 Industrial Drive, Suite 195
  2. Galt, CA 95632
  3. 1 (800) 982-7675