Internet services in smaller properties
Sharing an internet connection in smaller properties can be problematic as it is often impractical to create a traditional wired network and it can be difficult to set up an maintain a wireless system. For a fixed fee of £50 (+ VAT) for the whole house, we will advise you the best internet providers you can choose from, what equipment to buy or loan you some for a small fee, set up the equipment for you and offer you a helpline at local rates (during working hours). We will even come out to you if you have any problems during the year that can’t be solved over the phone.
For more information call 0113 2053411
FAQ
Q. What does the £50 cover?
A. The price includes full setup of the Homeplug system, configuration of the router and support for these during the course of your tenancy. You will still be responsible for paying for the internet connection with your service provider and any equipment you require (e.g. Wall-plugs and routers)
Q. Can Unipol setup and support a shared internet connection in our property even though we already have an internet account with another company?
A. Unipol can setup and support a shared internet connection in your property and use your existing internet connection. However if there are problems with the internet services provided by your existing ISP account it would be your responsibility to liaise and resolve such problems. Unipol may in some cases be able to advise you on the problems.
Q. I already have a router, can I use it instead of purchasing another one from/through Unipol?
A. If the router is of a suitable specification it may be possible to use your existing router. The tenant responsible for the router would be required to be present and take notes of important settings like usernames and passwords, whilst we program it for you.
Q. Can I use a wireless router?
A. Yes, but we do not support wireless connections. This is due to a large variation of security features which can cause compatibility and reliability issues between different wireless makes, models and devices available from retailers.
Wireless networks are difficult to setup and support in a secure manner.
Q. What is a Homeplug and why do I need one and why do Unipol recommend I use one?
A. A Homeplug is a device that has a mains 3 pin power plug with an RJ45 network socket on it for connecting your computer via a network cable.
You need one to be able to connect your computer to the internet without the need to trail wires around the house.
These days practically every computer comes with a network port and these devices are simple and easy to setup and run securely. It uses standard network technology to connect you to the network and internet.
Q. I’d like to set up the system myself is there any advice you can give me?
A. We’ve set up a page to explain the basics of using a Wall-plug system but please remember that we cannot provide any further help unless you sign up to our support package. We also recommend using Eclipse as your service provider, they offer a month by month contract rather than a fixed 12 month contract other companies require.
(Please note that Unipol makes a small amount of money from referring people to Eclipse but any money made goes back into subsidising other parts of the internet service)
Q. Can we share our bandwidth so everyone gets an equal share?
A. When you share an internet connection in a small property there is no way to ensure your bandwidth is equally shared. You will need to agree between yourselves how to fairly share the bandwidth as one person can ‘hog’ the connection.