Frequently Asked Questions:

FAQ - Answers

Getting Started

FatPort Network is a broadband wireless network offering high-speed internet access from a number of locations in Western Canada. FatPort Network allows you to get away from your desk and out of the office. Access your email, use your VoIP phone, or simply surf the Internet using the same portable devices you already use at the office.

FatPort follows the 802.11b wireless networking standard. All you need is a Wi-Fi certified 802.11b card and your portable device, be it a laptop, Pocket PC., Palm, or Handspring. Many laptops shipped today already have Wi-Fi cards installed.

The 802.11b Wi-Fi standard is so widely accepted that it's become the de facto industry standard for wireless networking. It's an established and mature standard - not some far-off future technology promising the stars and ending up as lumps of coal. In fact, many laptop manufacturers actually include Wi-Fi cards in standard configurations. And since existing cards will not become obsolete anytime soon - revisions to the standard emphasize backwards compatibility - we feel this was the smartest technology to get into.

All you need to do is open up a web browser in any FatPort location. Our hardware automatically redirects you to FatPort's login screen.

Wireless cards are available anywhere electronics or computer equipment is sold.

Finding a Location

Use the search bar at the top to search by the city you're going to be in - or click through our network by visiting our location page.

Look for the big red door logo at the cash register or by the entrance. If you see the FatPort, then you are in luck! Alternatively, you can check if we offer FatPort Access in any location by opening your web browser. If you see the FatPort Login Screen, you're all ready to go.

Find the manager and ask for FatPort! We want to be wherever you are, and are very open to setting up new locations. Any help you can give us with this will be rewarded with free time on our network - fill out a Location Suggestion form, and we will do our best to deploy there. But if you actually have a favourite airport waiting room, you really need to spend less time travelling.

Assuming your network card is correctly configured (click here for more details on configuring your network card), open your web browser before doing anything else. Our software automatically catches you and gently boots you over to our login page. From here, you can register an account, login, and purchase as much access time as you need.

Service

We provide enough service for the immediate venue, but due to the nature of the technology, the signal will "leak" to nearby buildings. Since we're opening in more and more places all the time, it's getting more and more likely that you'll be able to use FatPort's Network wherever you are.

We offer a variety of plans for your needs. When you need access a bit at a time, consider our 120-minute/60 day plan for $9.95. We'll bank unused time so you needn't worry about wasting it. Or ignore the clock with our 24-hour consecutive access also at $9.95. We also provide our regular customers with a more economical and convenient deal. If you find yourself constantly purchasing small blocks of time, consider a $34.95 monthly subscription plan. Check out the Services page for more details.

Go to our Join Now page. In a FatPort Location, we automatically send your browser to the login or join now page when you open your browser. If you need more assistance, give us a call at 1-866-FAT-PORT and speak with one of our helpful technical support assistants.

Yes! Once you've signed up, your account is active and ready to use.

Technical Support

There is no extra software to load - so long as you have an operating system, web-browser and 802.11b wireless card, your laptop will work with FatPort. You may need to adjust your hardware settings. Refer to our card-specific help for further information.

Keeping your connection secure is our highest priority. We strongly recommend that our customers be aware of the security concerns of wireless networking and ensure the security of their Internet connections. Like any internet connection, including DSL and cable, the FatPort network is not inherently secure.

We support 3rd-party VPNs but cannot otherwise be responsible for any customer-initiated security measure. It is your responsibility to adopt those security measures which are best suited to your situation. Please read our Customer Service Agreement for a complete disclaimer of liability. For more information regarding specific security options, please click here.

It's actually up to your company. You can connect to your company's network if your company allows remote access. As an extra security measure, many companies use VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks. FatPort is generally compatible with this software. Have your company's IT department contact a FatPort technical assistant at helpdesk@fatport.com for further details.

Yes! Your office comes along with you - and the coffee is probably better.

To ensure your account's security, we don't store your passwords in a readable form. Give us a call at 1-866-FAT-PORT (328-7678) to answer the secret question you set up in the sign-up procedure. We'll give you a new password.

FatPort recommends YourTechOnline.com for all your tech needs. YourTechOnline.com uses cutting edge technology to fix computer problems online or over the phone. Their highly trained technicians use the power of the Internet and specialized software to securely access your computer. This connection allows us to diagnose computer problems and fix them right before your eyes.

Location Owners

Our team of specialists installs the FatPort Network in your business.

No. We may need to arrange a 3rd party to install a high-speed internet line, either cable or ADSL, but if you already have this installed - then the FatPort Network is truly plug-and-play.

Likely not. Our equipment is very small - it easily hides away under the counter or into a small cabinet. If you require extra coverage, we may need to install a small antenna, but will install it in as low-profile a location as possible.

We will take care of any necessary upgrades, maintenance and repairs. Our staff constantly monitors the system 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so that we can quickly respond to any problems.

Absolutely! We want you to feel comfortable talking to customers about the FatPort experience. We also have support staff available: toll-free at 1-866-FATPORT (328-7678) or at helpdesk@fatport.com to answer any of your questions.