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Internet Specifics

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wk36
  9/19/2014 16:41 EST

Hi. I am new here but have been researching for a bit. I have read some varying reports on the internet in Guatemala and would like some more information. I need reliable/consistent internet for my work. I understand Guatemala isn't the best place for that but was hoping I could make it work. Being ready to the make the move but having one worrisome detail is no fun and I imagine I'm not alone. So I am asking for more specific internet info. I'd particularly like details from the Lake and Antigua areas. For example...
Different options available and pricing.
Speed tests and ping?
How often are outages?
Back-up power?
Do speeds vary at different times?
Do you have to sign contracts?
How long does it take for install?
How hard is it to find short term/long term rentals with a DSL land line?
How well does audio/video chat work?
How long to fix an issue?

My apologies for all the questions. I realize it is better to come down and try it out for myself so if anyone has a monthly rental available with reliable net, please let me know. This would be for Feb or March.

Have a good one.

bajasur
  9/19/2014 17:01 EST

I live in Antigua and have internet in my apt. Wi-Fi, from Claro. Speeds are great for Skype. Yes, there are outages but not for any great length of time. If you google Claro, and Cable Fusion you find the info you need as far as cost, speed, etc. I have no idea what it costs because it's included in my rent. Yes, speeds vary from time to time. One of the other posters here has Cable Fusion and she says their low rate package is good for her needs. They do have quite fast plans. Sorry don't know anything about the lake services, but when I go there the hotel I stay at has very fast speeds, better then here in Antigua from what I've experienced with my cell. No problem with you tube, Skype, etc. I'm sure others will add their experiences with internet.

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ddeubel
  9/19/2014 17:15 EST

I live in Antigua and have Claro.

For skype, it only works well for non peak times. Problem is all internet is sent through phone lines and has a weak signal that will drop constantly in times of heavy demand. (day time mostly).

If you work with large files, you'll really have a problem downloading and especially uploading anything.

I use a new coworking space in town and it is better, more reliable but still has its moments for video conferencing/bandwidth. 4.5Mbs Here is my home speedtest - http://www.speedtest.net/result/3772893615.png

Can be a challenge to work online but also the other positives outweigh the negative. Also 3g hotspot on my phone works well and is cheap. $30/10gigs from Tigo. But also has problems at times of heavy demand.

FrancescaW
  9/19/2014 17:28 EST

Hi - I live at the lake where the situation very much depends on where on the lake you are. Pana is the best place and some rentals have landlines, but not many! We have a couple we could offer you for this period. Just send me a private message about this.
There are a few providers besides the national phone system TELGUA/CLARO which you need to sign a contract for. BUT in truth you won't get much above 2-4mb if that. However, for those of us who live here and even those who work on line and use skype video etc. it is just fine. As you said, best to come here and try out different places really before making the decision to move permanently!
Best, Francesca

armandatitlan
  9/19/2014 17:36 EST

Hi there,
I work in Panajachel and I have a hard line over the phone kind of DSL connection I pay Q 500 per month. Very stable and strong.. great for working.. Not much power outage in cities..
So if you find a house with a hard phone line you can get this great service. you will have to sign a yearly contract or your land lord... Now we have also WIFI services all around the lake.. not so strong but reliable.. as well they are several providers some more professionals then other, some with better equipment, back up.. I can guide you through them.. I live in Sta Cruz La Laguna ,only boat access, I have WIFI and it works great I can do Netflix without problem.. The
hours of late afternoon are the busiest.. when I have a problem just call my provider who speaks Englis and get it fix over the phone if not possible they send somebody.. same moment unless it is the afternoon and will have to wait to next morning..
For rentals send me a private message I have some options I could recommend you..
Lake Atitlan is a great place to work and enjoy a great quality life..

kgriff
  9/19/2014 18:16 EST

Cable Fusion's lowest package price was Q225; TigoSTAR (who took over Cable Fusion) is Q249 (I think, it might be 245). BUT, it is plenty fast enough for Skype.

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wk36
  9/19/2014 19:44 EST

Thanks for all the replies. If I could acquire DSL in Pana or Cable Fusion in Antigua, it sounds like I'd be pretty well off. Are the hours of 4-10 PM peak?

I'm going to send a few of you messages about the rentals.

bajasur
  9/19/2014 20:58 EST

Contact me if you're looking for an apt. in Antigua as the time gets nearer. May have an apt. available at that time. All utilities included, cable, Wi-Fi, etc. $400 per month.

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