Contact Us2023-12-06T16:25:49-06:00

As local as it gets

Our local business managers are out in the field to service customers, attend events and run Bug Tussel University workshops.

We are here and everywhere to help.

Begin by locating your Power-Over-Ethernet device (POE). The easiest way to do this is to begin by locating your wireless router.

There are many makes and manufactures of these devices. Some common brands are, Netgear, Linksys, TP-Link, and Belkin. *Some customers may have been supplied an internal wireless router from Bug Tussel. These are stamped with the manufacturer “BEC’. If you have one of these devices, please reach out to us at (877) 227-0924.

The back of the router will have multiple ports for Ethernet cable connections. The POE Ethernet cable in particular, should be plugged in the “WAN” or “Internet” port. Follow the cable plugged into this port away from the router. This should lead you to your POE device.

Troubleshooting

No light on the POE indicates the device may not be getting electricity.

Follow the black power cable away from the POE device and confirm that it is plugged into a working electrical outlet. Also confirm that the electrical outlet is not on a switched circuit or controlled with a wall switch.

If you have followed the above sequence, the color of the light has not changed, and your services have not restored, please contact our support team at (877) 227-0924.

A red light indicates that the POE device or cabling has failed.

Follow the black power cable away from the POE device and unplug the power cable from the electrical outlet. Confirm that the light on the POE has gone out.

Remove each Ethernet cable one at a time taking note of the port each cable is plugged into. Plug each Ethernet cable back into the appropriate port confirming that you hear a ‘click” noise of the connector seating properly and the tab engaging. The Ethernet cable going to the external receiver outside should be plugged into the port on the POE device labeled Data+Power, Out, or RJ-45. Whereas the cable from the POE device to the router will be plugged into the Data, In, or Switch/Hub port.

Make sure the power cable has been unplugged for a minimum of 5 minutes. Plug the power cable back into the outlet and confirm that blue light returns on the POE device. Wait 2-3 minutes for the services to reconnect.

If you have followed the above sequence, the color of the light has not changed, and your services have not restored, please contact our support team at (877) 227-0924.

A red light indicates that the POE device or cabling has failed.

Follow the black power cable away from the POE device and unplug the power cable from the electrical outlet. Confirm that the light on the POE has gone out.

Remove each Ethernet cable one at a time taking note of the port each cable is plugged into. Plug each Ethernet cable back into the appropriate port confirming that you hear a ‘click” noise of the connector seating properly and the tab engaging. The Ethernet cable going to the external receiver outside should be plugged into the port on the POE device labeled Data+Power, Out, or RJ-45. Whereas the cable from the POE device to the router will be plugged into the Data, In, or Switch/Hub port.

Make sure the power cable has been unplugged for a minimum of 5 minutes. Plug the power cable back into the outlet and confirm that blue light returns on the POE device. Wait 2-3 minutes for the services to reconnect.

If you have followed the above sequence, the color of the light has not changed, and your services have not restored, please contact our support team at (877) 227-0924.

A solid blue light confirms that the POE device is operating correctly.

Follow the black power cable away from the POE device and unplug the power cable from the electrical outlet. Confirm that the light on the POE has gone out. Leave power cable unplugged for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Plug the power cable back into the outlet and confirm that blue light returns on the POE device. Wait 2-3 minutes for the services to reconnect.

If you have followed the above sequence, the color of the light has not changed, and your services have not restored, please contact our support team at (877) 227-0924.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose Bug Tussel?2023-10-04T12:58:17-05:00

We believe our rural communities are essential to Wisconsin, our economy, our quality of life, and what makes our state great. Our rural communities should not be left unserved and under-served. We think “outside the box” with a do whatever it takes attitude to provide Fixed Wireless Internet and Fiber Optic Internet to areas where others can’t or won’t.

I’ve never heard of Bug Tussel2023-10-04T12:58:22-05:00

Bug Tussel began providing cellular enhancements to rural Wisconsin for other national carriers in 2003 and expanded into broadband Internet in 2006. Bug Tussel now provides broadband Internet, cellular, and entertainment services in 50+ counties in Wisconsin with additional sites in other Midwest states.

You aren’t building fiber by me. Will you be able to ever build more fiber?2023-10-03T11:14:07-05:00

There is always the possibility! When we build our network, we include either 2 or 4 micro ducts inside the main duct. This allows us to easily expand the network later with minimal or no additional construction.

Do the speeds only apply to download speeds?2023-10-03T11:09:13-05:00

Nope! Unlike other fiber providers, all of our speed plans are truly symmetrical speeds. So, no matter what speed you are paying for, you are getting that in both upload and download speeds.

Does Bug Tussel actually provide up to 1Gbps speeds with fiber?2023-10-03T11:04:52-05:00

We sure do! When constructing our networks in rural areas, we build what is called a distributed split which allows us to offer Gig speeds without overloading our hardware. We also place the network and distribution fiber separately which helps with the overall reliability of our network!

How far does fiber provide service?2023-10-03T11:04:06-05:00

Every segment of fiber is managed by an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) that oversees the data traffic. From one terminal, 15 miles of fiber can be served in any one linear direction. For example, this means if an OLT was placed at a 4-way intersection, 60 miles could be served from one OLT, but on average our OLTs serve 20-25 miles. Multiple OLT Segments can be spliced together to expand the network further and further to create one large network over hundreds or thousands of miles.

How does this compare to satellite service?2023-09-27T14:21:44-05:00

Many satellite services are very expensive in comparison to Bug Tussel plans while usually also boasting slower speeds and higher latency. Latency is the time it takes between you taking an action on the network (such as making a search on your search engine) and the time that you get a response (the network sends the search results). In other words, your request has to fly up to space and reach the satellite for it to shoot the signal to another server on earth that has the information you need and then bring that signal back to the satellite in space and then send it back to your device on earth once more all while handling similar requests from other people on the network. Combine this with the small amounts of data it can receive and send each time (usually depicted in Mbps) and your tasks take forever. Bug Tussel services feature high-speeds and low latency for a seamless experience where you don’t have to wait around for your data to learn to be an astronaut before

How much speed do I need?2023-10-13T11:07:59-05:00

The amount of speed that is best for you will depend on many factors including how many users you have in the household at the same time, how many devices are simultaneously connected, and what activities or tasks you are trying to complete. Contact your Bug Tussel representative or call 877-227-0924 to learn what plan is best for you!

Can I work from home or attend school remotely?2023-09-27T14:18:29-05:00

Of course! We have many plans that are perfect for remote work or education. The exact plan that works best for you will depend on what tasks you are trying to accomplish for your job or class. Contact your local Bug Tussel Representative or call 920-227-0924.

Is the service really unlimited? My current provider’s plans go by Gb, how does that compare to BT’s Mbps offered?2023-09-27T14:18:30-05:00

Our service really is unlimited! Many providers will list their plans by their data cap (for example: 25Gb Plan) rather than by the speed (how fast the data is downloaded/uploaded). Bug Tussel showcases its plans by speeds (for example: 25Mbps Plan). A data cap means that the internet provider will either slow down or completely restrict your service after you use a certain amount of data. Bug Tussel does not use data caps meaning we will never cut down on the speed or service you are receiving. What you pay for is what you get and it is unlimited!

Can I use BT with a VPN?2023-09-27T14:18:30-05:00

Yes, however, lower speed plans may have some issues with it. On average, a VPN can require around 5-10Mbps to operate (may vary from one VPN to another) so having low speed plans could create issues especially when partaking in data intensive tasks. It is recommended to speak with both the VPN Provider and your Bug Tussel Representative on the specifics of using the services in conjunction.

Where is my login information for my online Bug Tussel account?2023-10-03T10:45:11-05:00

Your online account information is what you filled out on your customer service agreement and if you cannot find that you can always call in and our customer service team can help you get that login information.

Can I pay my bill online with Bug Tussel?2023-10-03T10:44:47-05:00

Yes! You can pay your bill online and make one-time payments with an account and routing number and you can also make one-time payments or set up autopay using a credit/debit card if it is a Mastercard, Visa, or Discover!

 

What is a modem, and do I need to get one?2023-10-03T10:44:44-05:00

A modem is a device used to send internet to your router which then produces Wi-Fi! You do not need to get one as one will be provided for you.

Can I use my own router, and do I need a router?2023-10-03T10:44:34-05:00

Yes, you can use your own router, but it is recommended to use a Bug Tussel-provided one to ensure reliability. Using a cheap or outdated model of a router can result in decreased speeds or poor signal. You do need a router in order to transmit Wi-Fi to your devices.

What is the difference between LTE and Point to Multipoint wireless equipment?2023-10-04T13:05:31-05:00

Some of our towers operate LTE technology. LTE stands for Long Term Evolution as part of 4G (4th generation) advancements in technology. This equipment does not need direct line of sight to provide coverage for Internet services. This is especially useful in areas where difficult terrain makes connections very challenging. While our point-to-multipoint (PTP) is more often capable of delivering faster speeds, PTP technology requires a direct line of sight connection to the tower.

What is 5G?2023-10-04T13:05:06-05:00

First, it may be helpful to review previous generations of mobile networks…

1G First generation – 1980s:
1G delivered analog voice. Made the first mobile phones possible.

2G Second generation – Early 1990s:
2G introduced digital voice (e.g. CDMA- Code Division Multiple Access). Allowed for SMS text messages and multimedia messages (MMS).

3G Third generation – Early 2000s:
3G brought mobile data (e.g. CDMA2000). Web connectivity was standardized. This led to the rise of video conferencing, video streaming, and voice-over IP.

4G Fourth generation – 2010s:
4G LTE ushered in the era of mobile broadband. The streaming era, gaming, HD videos, and video conferences. Phones need to be specifically made to run 4G services.

5G Fifth generation – 2019+:
The Internet of Things era supports advanced networks between smartphones, homes, appliances, automobiles, aircraft, etc. It requires more towers with more advanced and expensive equipment to bring faster speeds.

Currently, the US is almost completely covered by the 4G network. This means nearly all Americans live in an area with access to 4G LTE service. With 4G reaching its full potential, the 5G network began development. It is important to understand that 5G is not meant to completely replace 4G but to work simultaneously with it. The main benefit of the 5G network is nearly 10x the speed with decreased latency and the ability to support 100x more people. With high speeds, superior reliability, and negligible latency, 5G will expand the mobile ecosystem into new realms. 5G will impact every industry making for safer transportation, remote healthcare, precision agriculture, digitized logistics, etc. a reality. The main issue that arises with 5G is limited range and the inability to penetrate obstructions. 4G towers provide coverage within 10 miles of a tower while 5G is only capable of providing coverage up to about 1600ft. This is the main reason the next generation will be built using both 4G and 5G services together.

Will I need to purchase equipment?2023-10-12T16:46:14-05:00

We will rent you the external equipment that is needed to bring service into the structure. These can be rented for $10 per month. If you currently do not own your own wireless router, a standard equipment rental fee of $5.99 per month may also apply. Depending on the type of service, a one-time charge for installation may also apply. Please contact your Regional Representative to learn more.

Does Bug Tussel provide wireless service through satellites?2023-10-04T13:03:00-05:00

No. Bug Tussel provides broadband internet from cell towers to a receiver on the customer’s property.

Can I stream YouTube and Netflix with Bug Tussel?2023-09-27T14:18:30-05:00

Yes. We provide a variety of plans that can accommodate simultaneous streaming for multiple users within a household.

Will I need equipment on my roof?2023-10-04T13:02:13-05:00

Potentially. Most of our wireless services require line of sight connection to our nearest cell tower. The higher we can install the receiver on a customer’s property, the better.

Is Wireless Internet affected by weather?2023-10-04T13:01:44-05:00

Generally no. Due to the tower height, it is possible that service could be affected occasionally by severe weather. Bug Tussel’s team of network operations staff and on-call technicians are standing by to provide 24-hour support.

Are cell towers bad for the environment or for my health?2023-10-04T13:01:08-05:00

We aim to have a small footprint and impact to the local areas where we build towers. The impact of fertilizers, agricultural runoff, and emissions of motor vehicles have a far greater impact than cell towers. The cell tower industry is subject to stringent regulations for protecting animal habitats. Additionally, we do soil testing in compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act. We also evaluate each site for any historical structures, Native American artifacts, and impacts to migratory birds or endangered flora and fauna.

What is bandwidth?2023-10-04T13:00:37-05:00

Bandwidth is the volume of data that can be sent over a connection between two devices in a single second. Calculated as megabits per second or Mbps. When bandwidth (also known as download speed) is over-utilized, it can cause the Internet connections to slow and content such as video streaming will buffer.

Mbps vs MB

What’s the difference? The term bit is short for binary digit and it’s the smallest unit of data.

The term byte is a group of 8 bits. This is also used to describe the smallest unit of memory and storage.

Any measurement written in bytes is eight times larger than the corresponding unit measured in bits. In other words, 1 megabyte (1 MB) = 8 megabits (8 Mbps). And 1 gigabyte (1 GB) = 8 gigabits (8 Gb)

How Does Fixed Wireless Work?2023-09-27T14:18:30-05:00

Wireless Internet differs from traditional internet in the way the last mile of service is delivered to the subscriber’s home. Instead of providing that last mile of service through a Fiber Optic or Coaxial Cable direct to the home or business, Fixed Wireless Internet uses radio waves (often transmitted from a cell tower) to deliver the Internet connection. These signals are transmitted directly to the receiver placed on the subscriber’s property. Once the signal reaches the receiver, the connection to the router, Wi-Fi network, and subscriber’s device is the same as any other internet connection. Wireless infrastructure makes high speed internet economically feasible for the provider and the subscriber in rural and underserved areas.

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