Internet Solution

[mrnaz]

Hi all. I could have sworn I asked this question already, but I can't seem to find it anywhere. Oh well, sorry if anyone has to repeat themselves.

I am sending a laptop to a friend of mine in .za who has no computer experience. I have installed a fresh copy of WinXP (legit, this is a ThinkPad with a proper key), set up all the drivers/codecs, apps etc.

I want to get them internet access as well. I was wondering what the best and easiest internet solution in South Africa is. Connection performance isn't an issue, nor is bandwidth, the main thing is they need an easy to set up and manage connection of reasonable speed (256k or so) that can be used for email, web and other simple things.

What are the options?

 

[general_koffi]

ADSL is usually the best option. It isn't all that expensive anymore. They'll have to phone Telkom (or one of Telkom's client-ISPs) to set their line up, though.

You do have to live in or near a relatively major centre, though. (Not THAT major. Nelspruit has ADSL these days.)

If you want a mobile connection, you can get wireless internet for competitive prices, but it's slow and laggy and there are horrible contracts involved. Iburst is the major provider. You also can't be in the middle of nowhere, or you won't get reception.

 

[PostmanPot]

Get them to sign up for ADSL (provided there is a telephone line) at a Telkom Direct shop instead of phoning.

Otherwise get 3G or iBurst for wireless.