FAQs about Paratus Africa Services:
Get all the answers to your frequently asked questions about Paratus Africa products and services.
What is Paratus Africa, and what does it do?
Paratus is Africa’s quality network. With an eye on the future, the group is investing in infrastructure and establishing itself as a key player in delivering integrated network services across Africa. A passionate and professional operational team manages Paratus in seven African countries – Angola, Botswana, DRC, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia – and the business’s extended network provides a satellite connectivity-focused service in more than 35 African countries to a magnitude of customer satellite connections across Africa. This connects African businesses across the continent and delivers end-to-end service excellence. The group’s footprint extends beyond Africa to international (points of presence) PoPs in Europe and the US. Born and bred in Africa, Paratus is thinking big as it grows its footprint to deliver Africa’s quality network. By understanding the unique opportunities that Africa offers businesses and individuals to break boundaries and to connect without limits, Paratus is committed to raising the bar for providing quality connectivity in Africa.
What are the benefits of using Paratus Africa's network services?
The benefits of using Paratus Africa’s network services include access to high-speed and reliable connectivity across Africa. The company is committed to transforming Africa through exceptional digital infrastructure and customer service, which is a testament to its focus on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
How does Paratus Africa provide reliable and high-speed connectivity across Africa?
Paratus Africa ensures reliable high-speed connectivity across Africa by deploying an extensive fibre-optic network along with satellite and wireless infrastructure, which leverages advanced technologies to maintain consistent service quality.
How do I choose the best network service for my needs?
When choosing the best network service for one’s needs, customers should consider factors such as the type of service that fits their geographical location, the speed requirements for their tasks, the reliability and quality of service, and the support and service level agreements offered by the provider.
What is fiber internet
Fiber internet is a type of internet connection that employs fiber-optic cables to transmit data. These cables contain strands of glass fibers that use light to carry information, providing a fast and stable connection suitable for both commercial and residential use.
How is fiber optic internet installed
Fiber optic internet is installed by laying fiber-optic cables from the service provider to the customer’s premises. This may involve running cables underground or attaching them to telephone poles. An optical network terminal (ONT) is also installed at the premises to convert the fiber-optic light signals into electrical signals that can be utilized by internet devices.
How does fiber internet work
Fiber internet works by encoding data as pulses of light, sending these through the fiber-optic cables. The cables have an extremely clear core, surrounded by a reflective cladding, which allows light signals to travel long distances with minimal loss.
Why is my fiber internet not working
If one’s fiber internet is not working, the possible issues could include damage to the cables, problems with the ONT, service outages, or hardware malfunctions on the customer’s end. Please phone your nearest Paratus Network Operations Center (NOC) to address the issue as soon as possible.
How much is fiber internet a month
The monthly cost of fiber internet can vary significantly depending on the speed of the connection, data caps, intended purpose and any additional services included in the package. Paratus offers tailored packages that suit various lifestyles and budgets. Please visit our services page or contact our sales team to get specific pricing for your needs..
What equipment is needed for fiber optic internet?
The standard equipment needed for fiber optic internet includes an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which converts fiber optic light signals to electrical signals that routers can handle. Additionally, a compatible router is required to distribute the internet connection to your devices. Cabling specific to fiber optic technology is also essential to make the physical connection possible.
Who is the best fiber internet provider
Determining the best fiber internet provider can be subjective and may depend on individual needs such as desired speeds, customer service, coverage area, and price. Paratus, with its expansive connectivity options and customer-centric services, is certainly a leading provider in the regions it serves, offering a comprehensive range of Internet options including dedicated enterprise fiber solutions.
What is wireless internet
Wireless internet refers to any type of internet service that connects users to the web without the need for wired connections at the point of use. It encompasses a broad range of technologies including Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, LTE, and it is commonly provided through mobile networks or wireless broadband services.
What is fixed wireless internet
Fixed wireless internet is a type of high-speed internet connection where data is transmitted between two fixed locations via radio waves, bypassing the need for phone or cable lines. It’s typically used in areas where it may be challenging to install wired infrastructure.
What is satellite internet
Satellite internet is a form of wireless internet connectivity. It allows users to receive broadband internet access by using a satellite dish to communicate with a satellite in orbit. This form of internet access is particularly useful in remote and rural areas where traditional internet infrastructure is unavailable or cost-prohibitive to deploy.
How satellite internet works
Satellite internet operates by sending and receiving your internet data from a satellite dish on Earth to a satellite in space, which then relays this data to the internet service provider’s (ISP) hub. This process allows for two-way data communications, despite the significant distances involved.
Why is satellite internet so expensive
Satellite internet tends to be expensive due to the high cost of launching, maintaining, and updating satellites in orbit. Additionally, the equipment on the user’s end, including satellite dishes and terminals, and the technology needed at the hub stations to facilitate communication, can be costly. These factors combined contribute to the higher price of satellite internet services.
How much is satellite internet
The cost of satellite internet varies by the type of service, speed, and data allowances included in a plan. Paratus offers competitively priced satellite services, but for the most accurate and updated pricing, one would need to visit the relevant web page or contact our sales team.
How to get satellite internet
To get satellite internet, you’d typically choose a service provider, select a service package that meets your needs, and arrange for the installation of the necessary equipment, which typically includes a satellite dish and a modem. Detailed instructions and assistance will be provided as customers sign up for the service.
What is a data center
A data center is a facility composed of networked computers, storage systems, and computing infrastructure that businesses or organizations use to organize, process, store, and disseminate large amounts of data or to house their own servers or storage systems. Data centers have become the backbone for the IT operations of many enterprises.
How does virtualization help with disaster recovery within a data center?
Virtualization allows for rapid reproduction of a virtual set-up onto new hardware in the event of a disaster, thereby minimally impacting data center operations. It enables easier management of resources, quicker recovery times, and overall, a more efficient and effective disaster recovery process.
What is the difference between cloud computing and a data center?
Cloud computing is often delivered via data centers. While a data center refers to the physical infrastructure, cloud computing refers to the on-demand availability of computer system resources, particularly data storage and computing power, without direct active management by the user. The cloud can be part of a data center’s offerings but isn’t confined to one physical location. Colocation on the other hand involves a client storing and operating their own servers and storage systems in a data center where the operator is then responsible for ensuring that there is always backup power connectivity and other auxiliary services necessary to for the servers to run.
How much storage does a data center have
The storage capacity of data centers can vary significantly, ranging from a few terabytes in a small company’s on-site server room to exabyte-scale (or greater) in large service provider facilities.
How much does a data center cost
The cost depends on the scale, redundancy level, geographical location, and operational efficiency of the data center. It can vary from a few thousand to millions of dollars. In general it’s more affordable to use colocation services in an existing data center than build and operate your own.
What is cloud hosting
Cloud hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web application on the internet.
What is managed cloud hosting
Where cloud hosting refers to a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web application on the internet. Managed cloud hosting includes additional services and support from the provider to manage the cloud infrastructure, operating systems, and applications.
What are cloud hosting services
Cloud hosting services provide hosting on virtual servers that pull their resources from extensive underlying networks of physical servers. Costs can be estimated by considering factors like resources needed, including storage, RAM, and CPU, anticipated traffic, and any additional services such as data transfer, backups, security features, or managed services.
How to estimate cloud hosting costs
Costs can be estimated by considering factors like resources needed, including storage, RAM, and CPU, anticipated traffic, and any additional services such as data transfer, backups, security features, or managed services.
Why cloud hosting
Cloud hosting offers scalability, flexibility, reliability, and high performance. It accommodates traffic spikes well and provides high uptime due to the distributed nature of the cloud.
Backup as a service
BaaS is an approach to backing up data that involves purchasing backup and recovery services from a managed service provider.
Disaster recovery as a service
DRaaS is similar to BaaS but specifically pertains to the replication and hosting of physical or virtual servers to provide failover in the event of a man-made or natural catastrophe.
What is wan
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a telecommunications network that extends over a large geographical area for the primary purpose of computer networking.
What is sd-wan
Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) is an extension of WAN capabilities, utilizing software-defined networking (SDN) approaches to manage the WAN connections.
What is the difference between lan and wan
Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, laboratory, university campus, or office building. WAN, however, covers broader areas such as cities, states, or even countries.
Which network scenario will require the use of a wan?
Scenarios that involve connecting networks across multiple locations, such as international businesses, remote workers needing access to corporate resources, or schools across different districts, would require the use of a WAN.
What are the differences between fibre, wireless, and satellite network services?
Fiber utilizes light to transmit data across fiber-optic cables, offering high speed and bandwidth. Wireless refers to data transmission through radio waves and includes mobile and fixed services. Satellite uses communications satellites to provide internet accessibility, particularly useful in geographically challenging locations.
How do I get access to OneWeb LEO services and what are the benefits?
To access Paratus services like OneWeb LEO, you can contact our sales team or https://paratus.africa/oneweb-satellite-services to understand the benefits, such as higher speeds and lower latency compared to traditional satellite services.
How do I set up and install my network equipment and devices?
To set up and install network equipment and devices, you would generally need to follow the setup guide provided or request installation services from our technicians. This includes placing and configuring routers, modems, and satellite dishes if applicable.
What are the network speeds and data plans that I can choose from?
Speeds and data plans can be chosen based on your needs, which might range from basic browsing and email to high-definition video streaming and large downloads. Consult our packages to find a suitable fit for your requirements or contact our sales team.
How do I troubleshoot common network issues and errors?
Troubleshooting common network issues can involve checking device connections, rebooting your router or modem, or contacting our Network Operations Center (NOC) for help.
How do I upgrade or downgrade my network service or plan?
To upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your network service, please contact our sales team directly. If you experience an outage or network disruption, report this to Network Operations Center (NOC) immediately to enable quick resolution.
How do I cancel or terminate my network service or plan?
To upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your network service, please contact our sales team directly. If you experience an outage or network disruption, report this to Network Operations Center (NOC) immediately to enable quick resolution.
How do I report a network outage or service disruption?
To upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your network service, please contact our sales team directly. If you experience an outage or network disruption, report this to Network Operations Center (NOC) immediately to enable quick resolution.
What are the data center services that I can use and what are the benefits? (Colocation, cloud, etc…)
Data center services range from colocation, which allows companies to rent space for servers and other computing hardware, to cloud services which offer scalable and elastic IT-related capabilities as a service to multiple customers. Benefits include greater bandwidth, reduced operational costs, enhanced security measures, backup and disaster recovery capabilities, as well as technical expertise and support.
How do I get access to data center services and what are the requirements?
To access data center services, a company must first engage with us to evaluate their needs, followed by contract negotiation. Requirements often include detailed technical specifications for the hosted infrastructure, compliance to set standards, and agreed service level agreements (SLAs).
How do I backup and restore my data and applications using data center services?
Data center services typically offer backup and recovery solutions. Backups can be managed via onsite tools or through managed services and are frequently automated to run at defined intervals. Restoration processes would be outlined in the disaster recovery plans or SLA.
How do I migrate my data and applications to or from data center services?
Migration of data and applications typically requires planning to minimize downtime. At Paratus we engage with the client to form a migration plan which may involve data transfer tools or services, and potentially re-architecting applications for compatibility with the target infrastructure.
How do I manage and control my data and applications using data center services?
Management frequently involves using control panels, APIs, or managed service provider tools. Companies can monitor resource use, manage users, deploy or scale applications, and ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
How do I troubleshoot common data center issues and errors?
Common issues such as connectivity problems, hardware failures, or security breaches are resolved by following best-practice operations, incident management procedures, most of which is taken care of by Paratus at their Data Center facilities.
How do I upgrade or downgrade my data center service or plan?
To upgrade or downgrade services, clients typically review their current contract against their needs and engage with us to negotiate changes. For plan changes or cancellations, please contact our sales team directly to initiate the process, following their specified protocols.
How do I cancel or terminate my data center service or plan?
To upgrade, downgrade or cancel services, clients typically review their current contract against their needs and engage with us to negotiate changes. For plan changes or cancellations, please contact our sales team directly to initiate the process, following their specified protocols.
How do I report a data center outage or service disruption?
In case of service disruption, it is crucial to report the issue to our technical support wherein we would initiate any required incident response procedures.
How do I monitor and optimize my data center performance and security?
Performance and optimization monitoring involve the use of network management systems, application performance monitoring tools, as well as security information and event management (SIEM) solutions to ensure that the data center’s performance is in line with desired outcomes.
How can I get a quote or sign up for Paratus Africa's services?
To get a quote or sign up for our services, potential customers should contact the sales team directly or submit an inquiry through their website.
What are the coverage areas and availability of Paratus Africa's services?
The coverage and availability of services can be determined by consulting the coverage maps and service listings on our website, or by contacting the sales team for detailed information.
How can I check my data usage and manage my account with Paratus Africa?
Customers can check data usage and manage their account through a customer portal provided by Paratus Africa or by contacting customer support for assistance.
What are the payment options and billing cycles for Paratus Africa's services?
Information on billing cycles, payment methods, and options, can be provided by customer service or outlined in the user agreement with Paratus. Options may include online payments, direct bank transfers, or standing orders, with cycles likely to be on a monthly or annual basis.
How can I contact Paratus Africa's customer support or technical assistance?
Customer support and technical assistance can be obtained via the support channels detailed on our website, which may include email support, a helpdesk ticket system, and direct phone lines. Please reach out to [[Local support number]]
What are the latest news and updates from Paratus Africa?
Updates from Paratus Africa are typically published through press releases, blog posts, and social media announcements, and can be found on [[Local News Page Link]]
What is VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) in satellite internet.
Satellite internet functions by communicating with satellites to provide broadband access. VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) is a satellite communication technology that uses small dish antennas for narrowband and broadband data.
What do satellite internet packages include, and how do you choose the right one?
Satellite internet packages vary based on data caps, speeds, and other services. Selection depends on the specific demands including volume of data, desired speed, and latency requirements.
Is Starlink available in South Africa, and how does it compare to traditional satellite internet?
Starlink by SpaceX offers low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet promising faster speeds and lower latency compared to traditional geostationary satellite internet services. Availability in South Africa and comparisons would necessitate direct enquiry with our team, as they would have updated information on availability and/or pricing.
What is fixed LTE, and when is it a good option for internet connectivity?
Fixed LTE offers high-speed internet delivered through LTE cellular networks to a stationary customer premise equipment. Fixed LTE is often suitable for areas where wired connections are not available or cost-prohibitive to install.
How does WiFi satellite contribute to internet access in satellite-based systems?
WiFi satellite provision in satellite-based systems extends the convenience of wireless networking to satellite communications, enabling connected devices to access satellite internet wirelessly.
What are the advantages of uncapped LTE compared to capped plans?
- Uncapped LTE compared to capped plans offers several notable advantages:
- Unlimited Data Usage: With uncapped LTE, users have no data usage limit, meaning they can use the internet extensively without fear of reaching a cap that halts or throttles service.
- Cost Predictability: Uncapped plans provide consistent monthly costs without the risk of additional charges for exceeding data limits.
- Convenience: Avoid the inconvenience of monitoring data usage or needing to purchase top-up data.
Do satellite internet services require a clear line of sight to function properly?
Satellite internet services, including VSAT systems, typically require a clear line of sight to function optimally. This is because satellite signals can be obstructed by physical barriers like buildings or natural obstructions like hills and trees. A clear line of sight to the satellite ensures that the signal travels without significant interference, leading to better service quality.
Do VSAT systems offer advantages in terms of signal stability and reliability?
VSAT systems are designed to provide reliable communication, particularly advantageous in remote or challenging environments where terrestrial internet options are not feasible. They offer advantages in reliability due to their ability to maintain connectivity across wide geographical areas, making them robust against local infrastructure issues that could affect other types of internet services. However, factors like weather conditions can impact signal stability.
Do satellite internet packages typically include installation services, or is it a separate process?
Satellite internet packages from providers like Paratus Africa commonly include professional installation as part of the service offering (this may be noted in your initial quote). The installation process typically involves a technician setting up the satellite dish and configuring the necessary equipment to establish a connection.
Does WiFi satellite support secure and encrypted connections for devices connected to the network?
WiFi satellite systems are capable of supporting secure and encrypted connections, much like any standard WiFi network. Methods such as WPA2 encryption can be used to protect data and maintain the privacy and security of the devices connected to the network.
Does the performance of LTE packages depend on the user's location within South Africa?
The performance of LTE packages can indeed depend on the user’s location within South Africa. Geographic coverage, network saturation, and local infrastructure all play roles in the quality and speed of LTE services. A user close to a cell tower with adequate infrastructure and lower network traffic may experience faster and more reliable service compared to others in more remote or congested areas.
Does the LTE coverage map accurately reflect the signal strength and reliability in different regions?
LTE coverage maps provided by the service provider are generally a good indicator of signal strength and reliability in a given region. However, they are usually representations and might not account for micro-level interference like building materials or foliage.
Does opting for an uncapped LTE plan result in any restrictions or limitations on the user's internet usage?
Opting for an uncapped LTE plan might come with some terms of service that can include restrictions or limitations such as fair usage policies, which are designed to prevent network abuse and ensure a fair distribution of network resources among all users. For instance, while users might have no data cap, they could experience reduced speeds during times of heavy network congestion or after exceeding certain usage thresholds. For precise capabilities and terms of service for our LTE and satellite solutions, including the specifics of signal stability, security features of WiFi satellite, and terms associated with uncapped LTE plans, it’s advisable to check with our Network Operations Center or our Sales team.
