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Windstream Internet: A Review

For those who haven’t heard of Windstream yet, consider this your first introduction. As they expand, and help more people, we'll hear a lot more.

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Windstream Internet: A Review
Get to Know Windstream | KonectEaze

Get to Know Windstream

Introduction

Windstream is an internet service provider making significant strides in expanding its reach and improving its services. Known for its diverse offerings, Windstream provides reliable internet solutions across the United States.

Company Overview

Windstream Holdings, Inc. was formed in 2006 through a merger between Alltel's landline business and Valor Communications Group. The company is headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, and has grown to serve a wide range of customers with an emphasis on rural and underserved areas.

By the Numbers

Windstream serves 35% of the US, with a presence in 14,854 zip codes. Their offerings include DSL, cable, fiber, and fixed wireless, with top speeds reaching 1 gigabit for fiber, although fiber coverage is only 20% of their areas served. Windstream provides services to both residential and business customers, with tailored packages to meet varying needs.

Service Plans and Pricing

Windstream offers a variety of plans to cater to different user needs:

Plan Type Speed Range Starting Price Details
DSL Plans 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps $19.99/month Available in most areas, varies by location
Fiber Plans Up to 1 Gbps $75/month Limited to areas with fiber infrastructure
Fixed Wireless Up to 50 Mbps Varies Ideal for rural areas, depends on location

Veterans and Military Initiatives

Windstream has been recognized for its commitment to veterans, ranking among the top veteran-friendly companies by US Veteran’s Magazine and receiving a Military Friendly designation from VIQTORY. These accolades highlight Windstream's efforts to support and employ veterans, integrating their skills and experience into the company.

Fixed Wireless Expansion

Windstream is expanding its fixed wireless capabilities, providing reliable internet to rural areas like Poteau, OK. Fixed wireless offers a cost-effective solution with a focus on line-of-sight connectivity, enabling residents in remote areas to access high-speed internet without the need for extensive infrastructure.

OfficeSuite UC

To support small businesses, Windstream developed OfficeSuite UC, a cloud-based communication service that has grown by 20% year-over-year. This service helps businesses streamline their operations and improve efficiency by integrating various communication tools into one platform, including voice, video, messaging, and conferencing.

Future Plans and Innovations

Windstream is committed to continuous improvement and innovation. The company is investing in expanding its fiber network and enhancing its fixed wireless services to reach more underserved areas. Additionally, Windstream is focused on developing new technologies and solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Conclusion

Windstream’s ongoing expansion and commitment to quality service make it a formidable player in the ISP market. Their focus on innovative solutions and community support sets them apart from larger competitors, ensuring that both urban and rural customers have access to reliable internet services.

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The Staying Power of Retro Games

Retro games have this odd sort of draw on people, even those who do not consider themselves “gamers.” These games have achieved legendary status.

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The Staying Power of Retro Games
The Staying Power of Retro Games | KonectEaze

The Staying Power of Retro Games

Introduction

Retro games captivate a diverse audience, from avid gamers to those with a casual interest in gaming. Their legendary status and timeless appeal continue to draw in new players and maintain a devoted following.

Game Over Videogames

Founded in 2005 by David Kaelin in Austin, TX, Game Over Videogames specializes in cleaning, restoring, and selling classic games alongside the latest releases. Despite the rise of cloud gaming and subscription services, retro games and consoles have retained a dedicated customer base. These games evoke nostalgia and provide a tangible connection to the past, making them timeless.

The Appeal of Retro Games

The simplicity and charm of retro games appeal to a wide audience. Classics like the NES and Game Boy offer straightforward gameplay and iconic characters, creating a sense of nostalgia for many players. This simplicity makes retro games accessible, even to those who don't typically consider themselves gamers.

Nostalgia and Cultural Significance

Retro games hold a special place in many people's hearts, often tied to fond childhood memories and simpler times. The cultural significance of these games is highlighted by stories like the excavation of buried "ET: The Extra-Terrestrial" game cartridges, which drew considerable attention and interest. This enduring fascination demonstrates the lasting impact of early gaming experiences.

Resurgence and Community

The retro gaming community is vibrant and active, with enthusiasts organizing events, conventions, and online forums dedicated to classic games. This community-driven resurgence has led to the development of new hardware, such as the NES Classic Edition and the Sega Genesis Mini, which allow players to relive their favorite games on modern devices.

Modern Impact and Legacy

Retro games have influenced modern game design, inspiring indie developers to create new titles with a nostalgic twist. Games like "Shovel Knight" and "Celeste" draw heavily from the aesthetics and mechanics of classic games, proving that the charm of retro gaming continues to resonate with players today.

Conclusion

Retro games continue to attract new gamers and maintain a strong presence in the gaming community. Stores like Game Over Videogames ensure these classics remain accessible and appreciated, preserving the legacy of early gaming for future generations.

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Energy Deregulation and The Big 3

Energy deregulation is picking up speed across multiple markets and providing a cheaper way for customers to get electricity.

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Energy Deregulation and The Big 3
Energy Deregulation and The Big 3 | KonectEaze

Energy Deregulation and The Big 3

Introduction

Energy deregulation has transformed the electricity market, offering consumers more choices and potentially lower prices. This article explores the impact of deregulation and compares it to the successful teamwork of the San Antonio Spurs' "Big 3": Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili.

Understanding Energy Deregulation

Energy deregulation allows multiple companies to provide electricity, fostering competition and driving down prices. Prior to deregulation, utility companies held monopolies, controlling the supply and pricing of electricity. Deregulation breaks these monopolies, enabling consumers to select their electricity providers based on price, service quality, and renewable energy options.

The Big 3: A Winning Analogy

Just as the Spurs' Big 3 delivered consistent, high-level performance, deregulated energy companies aim to provide reliable and affordable electricity. The synergy between Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili mirrors the benefits of competition among energy providers. Consumers can compare offerings and switch to the best provider for their needs, much like how a well-coordinated team adjusts its strategy for optimal performance.

Benefits of Energy Deregulation

  • Cost Savings: Increased competition among providers leads to competitive pricing, potentially reducing electricity bills for consumers.
  • Improved Service: Companies strive to offer better customer service and reliability to retain and attract customers.
  • Renewable Options: Deregulation encourages providers to offer renewable energy plans, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Steps to Switch Providers

  1. Research: Compare different providers and plans available in your area.
  2. Evaluate: Consider factors such as price, contract terms, customer reviews, and renewable energy options.
  3. Switch: Once you’ve selected a provider, follow their switching process, which typically involves minimal disruption to your service.

Conclusion

Energy deregulation empowers consumers with choices and savings, akin to the strategic teamwork of the Spurs' Big 3. By researching and selecting the best energy provider, consumers can benefit from lower costs and better service.

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City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights

You’ve packed up your things and moved your family away from the BIG City out Rural Town, U.S.A. Then you realize, “What do we do for high-speed internet?”

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City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights
City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights

City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights

Moving from the bustling city to the serene countryside can be a refreshing change, but it often comes with the challenge of finding high-speed internet. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate internet options in rural areas:

Satellite Internet: A Viable Option

When traditional cable or fiber-optic connections aren’t available, satellite internet becomes a practical solution. Both HughesNet and Viasat offer reliable services with the latest advancements in technology.

HughesNet Gen5:

  • Speeds: Offers speeds up to 25 Mbps.
  • Data Limits: No overage charges; speeds are throttled after data limits are reached.
  • Reliability: Ranked #1 by the FCC for delivering advertised speeds.

Viasat:

  • Speeds: Provides speeds up to 200 Mbps in select areas.
  • Plans: Offers unlimited data plans, though these can be costly.
  • Contracts: Guaranteed rates for three years with a two-year contract.

Gaming and Streaming

While satellite internet allows for most online activities, certain high-demand tasks may face limitations:

  • Gaming: Most games are playable, but fast-paced, online multiplayer games may suffer from lag due to latency.
  • Streaming: Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime can be streamed in HD. However, data usage can quickly add up, especially on tiered plans.

Fixed Wireless Internet

Another option for rural areas is fixed wireless internet. Providers like Rise Broadband use antennas to deliver internet service, bypassing the need for extensive cable infrastructure.

  • Speeds: Up to 50 Mbps in some areas.
  • Installation: Usually requires a small antenna installed on your property.

Installation and Costs

  • Installation: Typically free, though credit checks are often required.
  • Monthly Costs: Satellite plans range from $60 to $150 depending on the speed and data limits.
  • Equipment Fees: Around $10 per month, with lifetime lease options available.

Conclusion

Switching to country life doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice high-speed internet. With satellite options from HughesNet and Viasat, and fixed wireless from providers like Rise Broadband, you can stay connected and enjoy the tranquility of rural living.

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The 3 Laws of Starting a Streaming Service

Apple, and Disney, have been teasing their streaming services for some time. Instead of launching, they're following 3 laws for starting a streaming service

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The 3 Laws of Starting a Streaming Service
The 3 Laws of Starting a Streaming Service

The 3 Laws of Starting a Streaming Service

Starting a streaming service is no small feat, and companies like Apple and Disney are following a specific set of rules to ensure success. These rules are inspired by Isaac Asimov's famous "Three Laws of Robotics" and adapted for the streaming world.

The First Law: Build Up Hype

Creating buzz is crucial. Companies need to generate excitement and anticipation for their streaming service well before its launch. This involves making big announcements and giving the audience something to look forward to, even if the launch date is far off.

The Second Law: Secure Intellectual Property

Finding unique and compelling content is essential. Instead of competing for popular properties, it's smarter to secure intellectual properties that are not overly saturated in the market but still have a dedicated following. This ensures a unique offering that stands out from the competition.

The Third Law: Involve Big Names

Big names in the industry add credibility and attract attention. By involving well-known creators, producers, and directors, companies can ensure that their content is of high quality and appealing to a wide audience.

Conclusion

By following these three laws, streaming services can effectively build anticipation, secure unique content, and attract viewers with high-quality productions. This strategic approach helps new services to carve out a niche in a crowded market.

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