getting a backup connection

[jhan]

Hey guys, a question here..

I'm moving into a room nearby my school. The house has a wireless connection shared by 6-8 people and the connection is pretty decent. It does get disconnected for maybe an hour or so every couple days though.

The thing is, I need an internet connection that's stable (for my online activities).. so whenever the main connection goes down, I NEED to have a backup connection. Is getting a cheap 2nd line installed in my room my best option? The house currently has Bell connection, and I was thinking about maybe getting the cheapest Rogers connection just in my room so I can use that when the main line goes down.

Basically wondering if that's the only option I have. I haven't been dealing with computers as much after I switched my major. Any advice?

[jetway1212]

before signing up for a new line, you should check to see if the problem isnt caused by the current ISP.

I find Bell DSL altho sucks for throttling is pretty stable for DSL.

Did you check to know its the line got disconnected? Because with crappy wireless routers, dropping out is very common.

So if the problem is the router i advise you to talk with others to split the cost of a new router. A good one like WRT54GL can be had for $50, with 6 ppl sharing it would be fairly affordable

Also if the line is indeed the problem, you should talk to your roommates to change the service to better ISP like Teksavvy. They use the same line but you can get support from them very easily.

[jhan]

I used to live there, now I'm moving back when the school starts.. I don't think others will pay for the cost of a new router because none of them are there long term.. and owner probably won't understand why he has to upgrade the router, because internet is just fine for casual users.. I just need something that's always online. Is it even possible to have 2 different ISP in one house?

[tdott]

Add a 6gb dataplan to your phone, and get a phone that enables tethering from Rogers or Fido.

This can serve as a backup, it is also very convenient when on the road.

My current iPhone 3GS connection speeds range from 2Mb-3.5MB. Some users reported upto 5MB speeds in their area.

When I moved into my newly built house a little while ago, this was extremely useful as I was able to work from home using my iPhone connection while i waited for rogers to come install my cable line.

[tomtomtom]

I find DSL connection to be very stable, except stormy weather, I get occasional outage

Do you have a smartphone? You can tether an iPhone or Blackberry (if you have a data plan already)

If not, just get a USB cellular adapter, they are relatively inexpensive and you can use it when u are in school