International Internet Connections

Network problem solving and tweaks
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Cupis
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International Internet Connections

Post by Cupis »

Hi Guys,

As you all probably know that 3G across our borders are, well, hidiously expensive... coming in a +-R50 p/mb for countries next door, and +-R110 for any other country. The only exception to this is if the Service provider has a deal with a provider in the other country. Ok these are the vodacom rates I do not know the others, however I cannot imagine it being much different.

So I received a call from a Director who was unhappy that he did not have internet Access in Kenya, and then was instructed to find a solution for his international internet connectivity needs. I do not know anything else than obviously the following idea's

- Buy a pay as you go simcard for your 3G modem for that country.
- Use hotel or local internet connections
- Satelite links.

I cannot think of anything else I can really do, and I know it is definitely out the question to wrack up a R1000+ bill to check a few emails. Do you guys know anything more about Satelite links? Do you know of any other connectivity options that I am missing out.

Regards
Cupii
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Synthesis
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Re: International Internet Connections

Post by Synthesis »

I'm in a different country every month. I can honestly say the best I have found and cheapest is to get a local pre-paid sim card and top it up. Africa countries unlike South Africa don't block the number after 3 months of non-usage. Ok, 1 or 2 service providers might, but it's a phone call to get it re-activated.
In your case it will work out well because it's only for data so it's just a 3G modem you need. not a spare phone or anything. Otherwise you could go for a dual-sim phone.

What I'm going to look at when I get back to S.A. is Cell-C's "one" network. They have partnered up with Zain (MTN in Africa) to be part of their one network in 15 countries. I just can't find any solid info and rates for Cell-C and the "one" network on the internet.
There is no need for customers to pre-register, no roaming deposits, and no complicated dialing formats. As in any other “One Network” country, while in South Africa, Zain customers can recharge their pre-paid lines with locally purchased top up cards.
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Cupis
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Re: International Internet Connections

Post by Cupis »

Yeah I thought that would be the best route. That One Network looks interesting, and supposedly covers 21 countries! That is incredible, local rates where ever you go. I will also look into this, give a call to Cell C.

Thanks for the info,

*Edit* I just gave Cell C a call, and they pretty useless :roll: So basically this is how it works. Cell C is a partner with this Zain network thing, but they do not offer the service. Zain costumers can come to South Africa and roam on Cell C's network and purchase cell C topups for their phone, they will also get charged at local rates and not international roaming rates. So the trick to this whole matter is get one of these Zain contracts from another country and keep it handy for Africa Roaming staff
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Synthesis
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Re: International Internet Connections

Post by Synthesis »

Thanks Cupis. I'll look into that. Even if it's worth getting a Zain contract here and using cell-c in S.A. that could work.
The biggest problem for roaming is still keeping your own number and not being charged R10 a minute to answer an incoming call. The problem is when I am at home everyone who want's to call me will still phone an international number and be charged for it probably.

This doesn't apply to you luckily. You just looking for an option for data. So I would tell your director about the Zain One network and then he'll have a data-sim card that he can use anywhere in Africa. So your problem is thus solved.

P.S. What are costumers? Can I call them for a halloween costume?
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Cupis
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Re: International Internet Connections

Post by Cupis »

Yeah our Company specialises in Dress up outfits and costumes. Our target market is actually Halloween enthusiasts. Pretty call huh? So yeah we refer to customers as Costumers. :D

On the non-lying note, My spelling is disgusting, I am suprised that you guys just picked up on one :D ^5 to myself.

Yes, it is a lot easier for me as I am looking for data bundles. I will let you know what Zain has to say to me :)
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