Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Brownsburg Connected?

Brownsburg Connected is a town Internet utility that offers wireless Internet access to both residents and businesses within the town of Brownsburg.

I can see the Brownsburg Connected signal in "Available Wireless Networks," but am unable to connect. What do I need to do?

1. Review the coverage map to see if your location is covered. If your location is not covered, please continue to check back as we roll out new phases of the project.
2. If your location is covered by the network, then you may need additional equipment to extend and boost the WiFi signal. WiFi can be finicky in its signal coverage due to physical barriers, such as trees, buildings, and other signals competing for air space. The antennas that provide the Wifi signal are similar to a utility light pole. It takes many light poles to light up an area and often physical barriers can prohibit the light getting through as strong as it could if there was just open space.
3. Some optional equipment can be purchased that may help you gain access to the Brownsburg Connected network. They are wireless access gateway devices (i.e. the Ruckus MetroFlex DZ – on-line availability, and Buffalo Technology AirStation Turbo G High-Power Wireless Ethernet Converter - available at Best Buy, Fry's or other local electronics retailers) and/or directional antennas (various brands are available at major electronics retailers).

How does the wireless network work?

A series of antennas and wireless access points will be distributed throughout the town limits on towers, light poles, and various other existing structures. These antennas and access points form a wireless virtual umbrella covering the town that will allow anyone under the umbrella to access the Internet via a wireless connection (laptops, PDAs, desktop computers with WiFi cards, etc).

For more technical gibberish, the network will be carrying three different frequencies. The 5.8ghz frequency is used for communication between major antennas and for business-level connections. The 2.4ghz is the standard WiFi frequency that is utilized in laptops, PDAs, wireless access gateways, and desktop computers with WiFi cards to connect to the Internet. The 4.9ghz frequency is new and upcoming and can be used for public safety communication by the police and fire departments.

How do I connect? How do I sign-up?

Simply turn on your computer or PDA that includes a WiFi card. Computers will vary on method, but find your available wireless networks. Your WiFi card will detect the "Brownsburg Connected" network. Select "Brownsburg Connected." Open an Internet browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Netscape, etc) and an introductory splash page will be presented where you can register, select a plan, and begin surfing the Net.

Do I need special equipment? Where can I buy hardware (WiFi cards, antennas, etc.)?

Any device that is labeled WiFi or wireless enabled, such as a laptop or PDA, and has an internet browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, etc.) can be used on the Brownsburg Connected network. Please consult your device manual or a local technologist if you have specific questions or problems connecting. WiFi devices can be purchased at various retailers in and around Brownsburg such as Walmart, K-Mart, BestBuy, Fry's etc.

Is the wireless network secure?

All signals transmitted on the 5.8ghz network are encrypted, providing a extremely high level of security. This includes the core backbone of the wireless network and all business-level connections.

In order to provide simplicity and maximum compatibility with a wide range of devices, the standard WiFi (2.4ghz) signal is not encrypted.

In all cases, your Brownsburg Connected account information is secured throughout the login process. Most financial transactions on the Internet, including online banking and shopping, are also secured. Simply look for "https://" in the web site address, or a padlock icon in the corner of your browser to ensure that your transactions have been secured.

Will the town or town officials be reading my email?

No. We do not have an email server nor will we be providing users of the network with an email address, therefore we have no ability to read and review users' email.

I'm a business in Brownsburg, what do you offer for business plans?

A specific goal of Brownsburg Connected is to encourage economic development for new and existing businesses in Brownsburg. We offer two options for business:

1. The standard WiFi (2.4ghz) network. We do not distinguish between businesses and residents. The pricing is the same.
2. A connection via the 5.8ghz network which offers a direct unshared (not exposed to the public) connection of high speed bandwidth of up to 9Mbps. The pricing for this option is extremely attractive. See "How much does the Brownsburg Connected service cost?" below for further information.

Can I access the network for free?

128k speed is free.

How much does the Brownsburg Connected service cost?

The cost of the service is based on speed of the bandwidth you'd like to have. The prices below are based on the standard WiFi 2.4ghz frequency that is most common. The prices are for both businesses and residents.

Monthly fees are:
128k speed – Free
512k speed - $10.00
1.5Mbps speed - $30.00

For businesses that would like to have a direct connection via the 5.8ghz frequency, the monthly fee is as follows for various high-speed bandwidth:

3Mbps - $50.00
6Mbps - $300.00
9Mbps - $600.00

The above rates do not include any equipment or other software which any user may require in order to access the Internet utility.

What bandwidth speed is best for me?

128k is suggested if you are interested in basic email only with few attachments (such as pictures). A light amount of Web browsing will be possible, but some hi-res and large graphics will be slow to load.

512k is suggested if you are interested in heavy email and a better experience for web browsing.

1.5Mbps is suggested for the best overall Internet experience. This speed is ideal for on-line gaming and home-office employees.

3Mbps-9Mbps is suggested if you are a business-oriented, do server hosting, and want a direct connection via the 5.8ghz frequency.