Mozilla, Etsy and more join the fight for net neutrality

Mozilla, Etsy and more join the fight for net neutrality

January 16, 2020 ,

Consumer groups and tech companies including Mozilla are continuing the fight to overturn the FCC’s latest ruling and bring about the return of net neutrality. The maker of the popular Firefox web browser joined other influential companies such as Etsy and Vimeo, along with public-interest advocates, to ask a panel of judges to rehear a case that upheld an FCC decision to repeal open-Internet rules.

Let’s stop for a second a review what net neutrality is. In December of 2010, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) passed the Open Internet Order, requiring internet service providers (ISPs) to give everyone equal access to everything they use the internet for. This order also prevented ISPs from creating pay-to-play “fast lanes” for faster delivery of content to those who could afford to pay more.

Kristy CooperMozilla, Etsy and more join the fight for net neutrality
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Elevate Your Internet with Softcom Smart Routers

Elevate Your Internet with Softcom Smart Routers

January 7, 2020 , ,

We have some exciting news! We’re happy to introduce the Softcom Smart Router, now available to all Softcom customers. These cutting-edge routers have been developed with the end goal of making our customers’ experience better, faster, stronger, and with an increased ability to control key issues for both home and business users.

If you love the idea of easy device management, robust parental controls, streamlined troubleshooting and advanced customization options, this is what you’re looking for.

Smart Routers are available to Softcom customers for a low monthly rental fee of $10.00. For customers that wish to set up a mesh network, it will be $5.00 per month per device (a minimum of 2 devices).

Kristy CooperElevate Your Internet with Softcom Smart Routers
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How Encrypted DNS Servers Can Support Internet Browsing Privacy

How Encrypted DNS Servers Can Support Internet Browsing Privacy

December 4, 2019 , ,

Looking for more ways to keep your browsing information private? Understanding how DNS (Domain Name Service) requests work, and how they expose the minutia of your internet activity, is a good place to start. Every time you visit a new website, your computer submits a request to the DNS servers system so it can translate the domain name to an IP address.

Let’s put it this way – DNS server information is like a detailed phone record showing all of your Internet use. And because DNS servers are what connect you to your internet service provider (ISP), this means that they can see what websites you are visiting, as well as when and how often you visit them.

Kristy CooperHow Encrypted DNS Servers Can Support Internet Browsing Privacy
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Federal court says FCC can’t block state laws supporting net neutrality

Federal court says FCC can’t block state laws supporting net neutrality

November 26, 2019 ,

A federal appeals court recently ruled that while most of the FCC’s ban on net neutrality can stand, the FCC did not have legal authority to ban states from implementing their own laws. This net neutrality update comes after a nearly year-long lawsuit filed by the Mozilla Corporation vs. the FCC appealing the FCC ban of net neutrality.

A few months ago we shared our thoughts about the Federal Communications Commission’s repeal of net neutrality and what could happen because of it. Net neutrality can be very difficult to understand, that’s why we laid it all out in an article on our blog, along with our official position that can be accessed here:

“Our Position on Net Neutrality”

Kristy CooperFederal court says FCC can’t block state laws supporting net neutrality
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How Cloud Computing is Changing the Way Companies Do Business

How Cloud Computing is Changing the Way Companies Do Business

November 20, 2019 , ,

Cloud computing. You’ve heard of it, but you might be thinking “where is this cloud and how does it work?” We’ve been hearing from customers – both business and residential – who are making the switch to cloud-based systems. If you’d like to learn more about how the cloud works, and how it will change the way you work, we’ve got you covered.

What is cloud computing?

For starters, using cloud-based systems allows you to store and access data, software, and programs via the internet instead of using physical storage drives. The technology is quick, user-friendly, secure, affordable, and flexible. You can access it anywhere, anytime as long as you have internet access.

Kristy CooperHow Cloud Computing is Changing the Way Companies Do Business
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Wireless Internet Service That Goes Above and Beyond

Wireless Internet Service That Goes Above and Beyond

November 12, 2019 ,

Loved Toy Story? There’s something we share in common with Buzz Lightyear… a love of going to infinity and beyond for our customers. But seriously, our commitment to exceptional service often takes us well beyond the norm. In an industry where it’s common to be on hold for over 30 minutes, take weeks to schedule on-sight customer service, get a blank look when asking about customized solutions, or work with the same technician more than once, here’s how we stand out in providing our wireless internet service and more:

THE BEST SET UP – NO MATTER WHAT: Sometimes installing a new wireless network can mean going into some pretty out-of-the-way places for running cabling or places routers. Our fearless technicians boldly shimmy through crawlspaces, tiptoe through attics and install our equipment in the best possible locations, no matter where they are. And if the job calls for more than one person, you get as many as you need to make sure it’s done right.

Kristy CooperWireless Internet Service That Goes Above and Beyond
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Custom Wifi Setups for Your Unique Business Needs

Custom Wifi Setups for Your Unique Business Needs

November 5, 2019 , , ,

Wireless networks are at the heart of practically every business these days, no matter how big or small. Every person who walks through your door – employee or customer – will need to use the internet at some point, and if your Wifi setup isn’t reliable enough, fast enough or secure enough, you risk negative repercussions. Lost revenue, damaged reputation, frustrated customers, and missed opportunities are just the tip of the iceberg if your Wifi isn’t doing its job.

Every business needs a WiFi setup that’s reliable, fast, and secure. However, getting there is often easier said than done. Every business is unique, which means every business Wifi must be set up correctly to meet those unique needs. A large vineyard operating across thousands of acres with multiple offices and locations needs an entirely different configuration than a small chain of family-owned restaurants. Other scenarios can include financial organizations with multiple branches and high security requirements versus home-based offices working from remote locations.

Kristy CooperCustom Wifi Setups for Your Unique Business Needs
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The Best Apps for a Better Night’s Sleep

The Best Apps for a Better Night’s Sleep

October 28, 2019 ,

If Halloween is over and you still see a lot of zombies walking around, we know why – Daylight Savings Time. This year Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on November 3. If this annual turning back of the clocks makes you feel like the living dead, we’ve rounded up four of the highest-rated apps to help you sleep like a baby. Whether you’re a regular insomniac or just need some help getting back on a schedule after the time change, these apps for a better night’s sleep have something for everyone.

*All of the apps profiled below have free and paid versions and work on both iOS and Android systems.

Kristy CooperThe Best Apps for a Better Night’s Sleep
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October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October 22, 2019 , ,

Even though this month has been designated National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we feel that your security is an all-year-long issue that everyone should be aware of. It’s no longer enough to watch for suspicious emails and think that you’re too small a target to attract the attention of cybercriminals. As criminals get savvier and their efforts more targeted, everyone from individuals to large organizations need to be aware and vigilant in using positive and protective cybersecurity practices.

Held every October, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) is a collaborative effort between government and industry to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity and to ensure that all Americans have the resources they need to be safer and more secure online. NCSAM was launched by the National Cyber Security Alliance & the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in October 2004 and continues annually.

Kristy CooperOctober is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
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How to Cut Internet Costs Without Degrading Your Service

How to Cut Internet Costs Without Degrading Your Service

October 15, 2019 , ,

While technology has made it easier to do many things, when it comes to streamlining your bills it can still be pretty confusing. If you’ve successfully cut the cord and lowered your bill by moving to streaming services, it’s natural to take the next step and look for money-saving moves to help cut internet costs. You can save money, but it’s important to know what to look for – and what to avoid – or you might end up paying more in the long run.

Internet service provider (ISP) marketing campaigns would have you think that by choosing a new service you’re guaranteed to pay less. But those splashy, too-good-to-be-true offers don’t give you the whole picture. And as the saying goes, the truth can be found in the details. So here’s what you need to know about how to cut internet costs:.

Kristy CooperHow to Cut Internet Costs Without Degrading Your Service
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About us

We believe that everyone deserves fast, reliable internet service no matter where they live or work. Softcom brings the experience, infrastructure, and technology to stand behind our vision. And we’re laser-focused on giving our customers the fast connections, exceptional customer service, and simple, affordable pricing they deserve.

For more information, visit our About Page.