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About Our Wireless Internet

First Step has established a comprehensive wireless network with numerous access points throughout Eastern Washington and North Central Idaho. These access points broadcast and receive microwave signals that deliver high-speed Internet service to antennas mounted on homes or buildings, without the need for phone or cable lines. Service is delivered using the IEEE 802.11 standard, also known as WiFi, operating in the 5Ghz or 2.4Ghz frequency. In addition to WiFi service, First Step Internet also offers business-class service using licensed or unlicensed equipment and can cater a speed package that fits your needs.

From the distribution point, data is transferred to and from the First Step facilities in Moscow, Idaho, utilizing a high capacity backbone connection. For critical core links in the network, First Step has deployed high capacity FCC licensed paths that can deliver up to 100mbps or more full duplex speeds. In select locations, existing fiber optic lines are used to network access points as well.

The 2.4ghz and 5ghz microwave signals do not bounce off or penetrate obstacles such as trees, buildings, or terrain. This requires clear and unobstructed line-of-sight between the customer's antenna and one of our access points.

Networking

The increased bandwidth offered by a wireless connection is great for local networks. You can have several computers share one high speed connection. Each computer can access different parts of the Internet without interfering with each other. Multiple office workers can access the Internet at the same time. You can check your email while other family members surf websites or download their favorite files.

Internet Access in Rural Areas

If you live outside of town, chances are that your Internet connection does not connect at the highest rate possible. Even though you may have a 56K modem, you probably never connect at that speed. Phone lines that extend out that far are usually quite old, not very well maintained, and are not capable of handling the amount of data that a modem can send over those lines. Living outside of town also means that you likely won't qualify for DSL or Cable service. Wireless is the solution to your problems.