Introduction to Tooway

Tooway is an alternate way to connect to the internet via an Ethernet-based satellite connection.

Tooway can be used for the general internet use but can also be used by home or small businesses as it supports up to 3 different users.

Its packages are ideal for those of us that live outside the fixed line broadband areas or for those of us that are getting sick and tired of lagging internet speeds due to overcrowded telephone exchanges.

Before offering its satellite broadband service, Tooway focused mainly on offering communication solutions to the Government and Military as well as other businesses that need remote broadband and telephony access.

Using its satellite service, Tooway is able to set up remote infrastructures for governments and military organisations as well as offering CCTV services to them.

Tooway features

- Email and browsing
- Secure online sites, ecommerce and online banking
- Remote site hook up
- FTP Sites
- Distance Education

Compared to other satellite broadband companies out there, Tooway offers relatively inexpensive hardware and airtime.

You can also get a continual connection to the internet whether your phone lines are down or not.

It might be worth noting that Tooway's services usually take 2-3 weeks to go live from your order date depending on your location in the UK.

There are still many people in the UK who still don't have access to broadband.  If you are one of the unlucky ones out there tired of 'dialling up' every time you want to go online then Tooway's satellite service may be your answer. It offers one of the most competitive 2 way satellite packages on the market with reliable speeds to boot!

Why it may not be right for you

If you live in a "broadband area", you might want to consider a fixed-line broadband provider. Although Tooway's prices are competitive against other satellite companies they are still higher than a lot of the other broadband providers out there. Companies such as Sky, BT and Virgin Media that use ADSL or fibre optic cabling service to provide broadband also offer much higher speeds and no download limits.

If you're a heavy internet user, you might want to opt for another provider as Tooway's highest download limit per month is only 12GB.

If you download music and films, then we advise you to look at the other options out there that offer higher speeds with no download limit per month.

If you're looking for a cheap internet option, Tooway is probably not the best deal for you. Tooway's basic broadband package is more than marginally higher than other ADSL or fibre optic broadband options out there. But as mentioned before, if you want fast reliable internet and live outside an ADSL or fibre optic broadband area then Tooway is your best bet.

What is satellite broadband?

Broadband means, very simply, a high-speed connection to the Internet that's 'always on'. It's called broadband because it has a much larger capacity to receive (and send) data. Providing broadband via satellite means that Tooway bounces your data from your remote location up to and down from the satellite to a point on the ground where there's very fast and reliable internet connectivity.

Can I connect more than one user to the service?

Yes, it is possible to connect the equipment directly to a router, or other network LAN devices, to share the connection with other users.
Tooway's product is not designed to be shared amongst a number of different properties/residencies by wireless, however. Connecting more users than the service has been designed to allow will result in a poorer service.

Can I use this equipment with my Apple Mac or Linux computer?

Yes, with all Tooway's services connect to non Windows computers easily.

Will I need to buy any extra software?

As Tooway's satellite broadband connections are 'always on', it is advisable that you install a (software or hardware) firewall to protect you from any unwanted attempts to access the files on your computer. We also suggest you install quality anti-virus software.

Do I require planning permission or other permits?

Though conditions may vary slightly, normally planning permission is not required for the 67cm antenna you will be supplied with.

Do I need my landlord's permission?

If you do not own the building where the equipment is to be installed, you must receive written authorisation from the landlord approving the installation.

What happens if/when I move?

Moving the dish to another location, whether on the same building or otherwise, is
possible. You must notify Tooway if you plan to move house or premises as the firm has to complete licensing checks for the new location with Ofcom. If you don't do this and the equipment interferes with other licensed equipment at another site you could be liable
for a fine.

Must I purchase the equipment?

To receive the broadband service it is necessary to have the defined equipment. You may purchase the equipment outright at time of order. The equipment will only be usable on Tooway's satellite services.

How long will it take to get installed and operational?

The lead time will normally be 2 to 3 weeks.

How do I know if I have line of sight to the satellite?

In the UK, it usually requires line of site to the South South East, at about 163 degrees magnetic. If you can see a Sky digital dish nearby, this points roughly South East.
Tooway offers a number of mounting solutions that can deal with sites where line of site to the satellite is awkward. It's also worth noting that Tooway's products do not require you to take a phone line as its service is delivered through a two way satellite.