Holiday Retail Connectivity
It’s that time of year again, retail storefronts have transformed into hustling hubs of activity as shoppers hunt for the perfect holiday gifts to give their loved ones. That means no slow days for brick-and-mortar operations and e-commerce merchants from mid-November through the end of the year. Holiday retail soared to $936.3 billion according to the National Retail Federation. In addition, experts predict this year’s sales will eclipse that number by several percentage points. Stocked shelves and positive customer experiences are essential elements. Elements that can shape how successful this year can be for stores of all sizes. There’s one thing, though, that matters even more but doesn’t get the credit it deserves – reliable, high-speed internet access. The Bustle of e-Commerce Picture this: a cozy couch, a cup of hot cocoa, and your favorite device – the quintessential digital holiday shopping scene. Digital merchants have been prepping for this moment since mid-summer, optimizing their product descriptions, testing new online shopping experiences, and fine-tuning ad campaigns to compete for attention and convert browsers into buyers. Consumers love the experience of shopping from wherever they are for whatever they want. It is the convenience of not having to set foot in a physical location packed full of people. As the Q4 shopping season kicks into high gear, online retail infrastructure will have to hold up to the flood of users scrolling through digital racks, filling their carts and spending tens of thousands of dollars every second, putting immense pressure on the digital infrastructure. Therefore, handling that much activity requires connectivity that can keep up without collapsing. Don’t Forget About In-Person Experiences Physical storefronts are no match for the sheer volume of online shopping. However, that’s no excuse to overlook the economic activity they contribute, or the need for speedy and secure internet service. Dependable connectivity is the unsung hero of their operations. Supply chain coordination, vendor management, POS terminal operations, inventory tracking, marketing and promotional activity, customer service … without a reliable, high-speed internet connection, in-store operations would grind to a halt in mere seconds. It’s Okay to Speed In the whirlwind of holiday shopping, speed is the name of the game. Shoppers want websites to load in the blink of an eye. Brick-and-mortar stores want to keep every check-out interaction moving smoothly and swiftly. Thus, time is of the essence, and any lag — even for a few seconds — can turn merriment into meltdown. Fast internet is not just a luxury; it’s a lifeline for retailers looking to delight customers and outshine the competition during the peak shopping season. Quick internet speeds translate to a seamless shopping experience – speedy page loads, snappy checkouts, and happy customers. Network Downtime — A Ho-Ho-Holiday Nightmare No matter what they’re selling, their size, or their specialty, retailers have one fear in common this time of year — service outages. Whether it’s caused by technical glitches, cyber-attacks, or servers that don’t have the capacity to keep pace with wave after wave of customer traffic, any interruption in internet connectivity can turn holiday joy into a retail nightmare. Every moment spent struggling to get back online comes at the cost of losing out on potential sales and increasing customer frustration. Wrapped Up With Ribbons and Bows Holiday retail is driven by people, but a reliable internet connection is what makes every checkout possible. With the hustle and bustle of the shopping season well underway, few things are more important than reliable, fast connectivity. If your provider isn’t helping you get ahead, it’s time to find service that won’t hold you back. Empire Access can help you get the internet connection you need to keep your business up and running.
Getting to Know the Empire Access Team
Meet Michelle Bourdette Delivering help where help is needed — that’s what customer service is all about. It’s also part of the job Michelle finds most rewarding. What about it is so fulfilling to her? Knowing she’s doing something that’s making a difference in the lives of customers. As of this October, Michelle has been part of the Empire Access team for 13 years. She’s seen us grow and worked with many customers along the way. When she first started, it wasn’t unusual to find something in common with the person on the other end of the line and use that to go deeper than a typical customer conversation. “I spoke to a lady once whose father lived in the 596 area, and she lived in downtown Gettysburg. I spend a lot of time there, and as it turned out, I knew exactly where she was located! She seemed excited to talk to someone else who knew the town as much as she did!” Today, the calls come in from a wider area than they did before, but that hasn’t stood in the way of the care and dedication Michelle delivers to every person she talks to. She even has a few regulars that have become more like acquaintances than customers throughout their interactions — if their calls aren’t sent to her directly, they’ll ask for her by name. Good service leads to good relationships, and Michelle is a great example of what the “Empire Experience” is all about. Whether it’s sorting out a billing issue or walking a customer through the process of resetting the connection on their TV, she goes to great lengths to deliver the sort of care and attention that people expect from their friends and neighbors. That spirit is exactly why we’re proud to have Michelle on our team.
Giving Thanks for The Things That Matter
The Big and Little Things We’re Thankful For The leaves are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors. There’s a cool crispness in the air, and warm layers and cozy clothes have emerged from hibernation. As we move into a season of change and gratitude, we’re taking time to reflect on what matters to us. Many things look different than they did a year ago, but a lot remains the same — our enduring commitment to the communities we serve, or our emphasis on creating value instead of just selling products. Most of all, it’s the appreciation we feel for the people who make all of this possible — our friends, family, employees, and especially our customers. The support of our customers, and the hard work and dedication of our employees are the driving force behind the growth and success we’ve enjoyed. None of this would be possible without you, and that’s not something we take for granted. We frequently talk about family and community because they’re part of who we are and the reason for our success. We’ve come a long way from where we were but we’re still true to our roots. Many of our employees have been with us since our North Penn Telephone days. Giving back to our friends and neighbors, supporting local non-profits and community organizations, and investing in the towns and cities where we live wouldn’t be possible without you. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate in our own ways over the coming months, we want you to know that you are an integral part of who we are. Your continued support is the greatest gift we could ask for. Therefore, we pledge to keep striving for excellence in return. In this season of gratitude, we’re thankful for everyone we’re fortunate to know and serve. Your loyalty, trust, and support are the reasons we can stand in today and look toward tomorrow with optimism. From everyone at Empire Access to all of you and yours, thank you!
Empire Access Wins Best of the Twin Tiers for Internet Satellite and Cable
We are thrilled to announce that Empire Access has been awarded the coveted title of “Best of the Twin Tiers” for Internet, Satellite, and Cable services. This prestigious accolade wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our valued customers and the community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted for us and made this achievement possible. A Commitment to Excellence We at Empire Access have always dedicated ourselves to providing our customers with the highest quality telecommunications services. Whether it’s fast and reliable internet, top-notch satellite TV, or comprehensive cable packages, we’ve made it our mission to deliver the best possible services to the Twin Tiers region. This commitment to excellence is at the core of our company’s values. It’s also what has allowed us to stand out in a crowded field of providers. We believe that our customers deserve nothing but the best, and we work tirelessly to ensure that they receive it. Your Votes Matter Winning “Best of the Twin Tiers” is a tremendous honor, and it’s an accolade that holds a special place in our hearts. This award is a testament to the trust and support of our customers, who took the time to cast their votes and let their voices be heard. Your votes matter, and they motivate us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in telecommunications. Thank You, Twin Tiers! Empire Access would like to express our profound gratitude to the Twin Tiers community for this incredible recognition. Additionally, we understand that your expectations are high, and we’re proud to have met and exceeded them. This award is not just a reflection of our dedication but also of the trust you’ve placed in us. We’d like to extend a warm thank you to every individual who voted for us, as well as those who have been part of our journey since the beginning. It’s your feedback, suggestions, and support that have allowed us to grow and refine our services. We’re excited to continue serving the Twin Tiers community with the same level of commitment and passion. Looking Ahead Receiving the title is a fantastic accomplishment, but it also comes with a responsibility to maintain and enhance the services we provide. As technology evolves, so do our offerings. We are committed to staying at the forefront of the telecommunications industry, bringing you the latest innovations, and ensuring that you have access to the best possible connectivity solutions. Empire Access is deeply honored to have been named “Best of the Twin Tiers” for Internet, Satellite, and Cable. This recognition belongs to our valued customers and the Twin Tiers community who continue to trust and support us. We look forward to the future, in which we can continue to serve you with the utmost dedication and excellence. Thank you for your votes, your trust, and your belief in Empire Access. We’re excited about the journey ahead, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
Empire Access Wins FLX Finest Award!
Empire Access has added another feather to its cap by winning the FLX Finest Award. This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. It is also proof of our dedication to serving the Finger Lakes region with top-notch telecommunications services. The FLX Finest Awards, which celebrate outstanding businesses and organizations in the Finger Lakes region of New York, are highly competitive, making Empire Access’s victory all the more impressive. The company’s ability to stand out in such a crowded field is evidence of its exceptional services and community engagement. Empire Access has a long history of providing high-speed internet, phone, and TV services. We provide to both residential and business customers in the Finger Lakes area. With a focus on delivering reliable, fast, and affordable connectivity, Empire Access has become a trusted partner for those seeking cutting-edge telecommunications solutions. One of the key reasons behind Empire Access’s win is its commitment to investing in the communities we serve. We have actively expanded our network infrastructure in the region, ensuring that even remote and underserved areas have access to high-speed internet. This dedication to bridging the digital divide has not only improved the lives of residents. It has also contributed to the region’s economic growth. Empire Access’s success also reflects its emphasis on customer satisfaction. Our local support teams are known for their responsiveness and expertise, ensuring that customers receive the assistance they need promptly. This personalized approach has fostered strong customer loyalty and trust. Empire Access actively participates in community initiatives, supporting local events, charities, and organizations in addition to its services. Empire’s commitment to giving back to the communities it serves has made it a respected and beloved entity in the Finger Lakes region. Receiving the FLX Finest Award is recognition of Empire Access’s contributions to the Finger Lakes area. Technology continues to play an increasingly vital role in our lives. Thus, the company’s dedication to providing reliable and high-quality telecommunications services remains crucial. Empire Access’s win serves as an inspiration to businesses everywhere, highlighting the importance of excellence, community engagement, and customer-focused values. As we continue to expand and innovate, Empire Access is poised to make an even greater impact on the Finger Lakes region and beyond, reaffirming its position as a leader in the telecommunications industry. Thank you to everyone who voted for Empire Access!
Empire Access Expansion in Scranton is Ready for Service
Gigabit-speed internet and service suite goes live for local residents and businesses Scranton, PA, October 26, 2023 – Empire Access, a Northeast fiber-based internet service provider, announces the official launch of its comprehensive portfolio of high-speed internet services serving the Scranton, Pennsylvania, market as the company advances towards the completion of its phase one fiber network deployment across the Scranton metropolitan area. Residential and business customers now have access to Empire Access’ leading internet services. This includes enterprise-class Wi-Fi with speeds of up to 2 Gigabytes per second download, streaming, security, and more. Empire Access first announced its expansion into Scranton in November 2022 and began construction the following February. With the near completion of the company’s phase one fiber deployment, services are now live. This network buildout will reach 176 miles in and around Scranton when completed in 2024. The first phase stretches 86 miles planned for completion by the end of 2023. Empire Access will complete a further 90 miles of fiber infrastructure next year. “We are excited to officially launch our services to the Scranton marketplace,” stated Jim Baase, CEO at Empire Access. “At Empire Access, we see Scranton as a cornerstone of our service area, so we are thrilled to see our buildout progressing as planned. Our internet is one of the fastest in the Northeast, and we consistently challenge ourselves and our competitors to provide the best Wi-Fi and customer experience. Lastly, with no hidden price hikes, we challenge our competitors on all fronts.” Empire Access headquarters are in Prattsburgh, New York. However, Empire offers its internet services throughout its growing service area across large parts of Upstate NY and Northern PA. Over the past year, Empire Access has announced expansions to a number of new, often underserved markets. Examples of these expansions include Bloomsburg and Erie, PA, and Vestal, NY. To maintain its deep connection to the communities it serves, Empire Access locally staffs its 24/7/365 customer service teams. Empire Access pairs its high-speed fiber optic internet with a complete array of telecommunication and security services that include: Check Empire Access’ availability in your area by visiting: https://empireaccess.wpenginepowered.com/service-area/, calling (800) 338-3300, or emailing info@empireaccess.com. About Empire Access: Founded in 1896 with a single telephone line in Prattsburgh, NY, Empire Access has grown significantly as a local communications provider serving large areas of Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Empire Access offers a wide range of products and services from scalable high-speed fiber optic internet, TV, phone, and advanced security solutions. Responding to a variety of business and consumer needs, Empire Access continues to expand into new areas. Even so, they retain a strong focus on local and personalized customer service. In 2017, 2018, and 2021, Empire Access was awarded Best Internet Service Provider in the Southern Tier region of New York. Empire Access was named the fastest Internet Service Provider in the Northeastern United States for two consecutive years by PC Mag. In January of 2023, Empire Access closed on a majority investment from funds controlled by Antin Infrastructure Partners.
Solving Wi-Fi and AirTies Issues: A Quick Troubleshooting Guide
In our modern world, Wi-Fi has become an essential part of our daily lives, connecting us to the digital universe. But like any technology, Wi-Fi, and networking devices such as AirTies can sometimes encounter issues that disrupt our online experiences. Fret not! In this blog, we’ll guide you through some basic troubleshooting steps to help you resolve common Wi-Fi and AirTies problems quickly. Check Your Network Connection The first step in troubleshooting any network issue is to verify the basics. Initially, make sure you power on your modem or router and connect it to your internet service. Sometimes, a loose cable or a power outage might be the root cause of your connectivity problems. Restart Your Devices If you’re experiencing connectivity issues on your computer or mobile device, a simple restart can often do wonders. Power cycle your device to reset network settings and clear any temporary issues that may be causing disruptions. Reboot Your Router Rebooting your Wi-Fi router is a common and effective troubleshooting step. Unplug the router, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. This action can resolve various issues, such as network congestion and temporary glitches. Check for Interference Wireless signals can be disrupted by other electronic devices, such as cordless phones, microwave ovens, or Bluetooth devices. Ensure your Wi-Fi router is placed away from potential sources of interference and in a central location for optimal coverage. Update Firmware Outdated router firmware can lead to performance and security issues. Therefore, check the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates for your specific router model and apply them as necessary. Secure Your Network If your Wi-Fi network is not password-protected, unauthorized users could be hogging your bandwidth. Set a strong, unique password to secure your network and prevent unauthorized access. Reset AirTies Devices If you’re experiencing issues with AirTies extenders or mesh network devices, consider resetting them to their factory defaults. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific AirTies model to do this. Optimize Device Placement When using AirTies devices for mesh Wi-Fi, ensure they are strategically placed throughout your home. They should be positioned in locations that provide the best coverage for all areas. Check for Firmware Updates AirTies regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance and fix bugs. Make sure your AirTies devices are running the latest firmware to ensure optimal performance. Contact Support If you’ve tried all these steps and your Wi-Fi or AirTies issues persist, it may be time to reach out to your internet service provider’s customer support. They can offer guidance, conduct remote diagnostics, or schedule a technician visit to resolve the problem. These basic troubleshooting steps can resolve most frustrating Wi-Fi or AirTies issues. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a stable and reliable internet connection. Remember that for more complex issues, your internet service provider’s customer support is there to assist you.
From Dial-Up to Fiber: Tracing the Evolution of Internet Services
The digital landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past quarter-century, and one individual who’s had a front-row seat to this evolution is Bob VanDelinder, the Vice President of Sales for Empire Access NEDAS did a podcast to delve into Bob’s insightful journey, spanning the transition from dial-up to DSL and eventually to the cutting-edge world of fiber optic broadband. Empire Access, a regional telecommunications company, has been a key player in the field of internet and communications technology. Bob VanDelinder’s extensive experience at Empire Access has allowed him to witness the dynamic shifts in the industry, particularly how customer demands, and internet applications have evolved substantially. With Empire Access investing in state-of-the-art fiber optic technology to ensure their customers have access to the blazing-fast internet they need for today’s data-hungry applications. Beyond meeting the demands of their existing customer base, Empire Access has embarked on an ambitious expansion plan. They’ve ventured into new markets in upstate New York and Pennsylvania, bringing high-speed fiber internet to towns and cities that have never experienced such connectivity before. This expansion not only fosters digital inclusivity but also supports economic development in these regions, making Empire Access a vital part of their growth. Bob VanDelinder’s experiences at Empire Access provide us with an illuminating narrative of the internet’s evolution over the past 25 years. It’s a testament to the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technology and their unwavering commitment to meeting the changing needs of their customers. Empire Access’s recent expansion efforts underscore their vision of a more connected, accessible, and digitally empowered future for communities in the Northeast. Listen to the episode – https://www.nedas.com/e41-from-dial-up-to-fiber-tracing-the-evolution-of-internet-services/
Empire Access Expands Internet Services to Mount Morris and Perry, NY
Upstate New York Fiber Optic Expansion to be Completed in Fall of 2023 Prattsburgh, NY, October 11, 2023 – Empire Access, a fiber internet service provider declared the fastest internet in the Northeast, today announced it expects to complete its fiber optic network expansion to Mount Morris and Perry, New York, in the Fall of 2023. When completed, local home and business owners will have access to a wide array of internet services. For instance, the services include Wi-Fi, home automation, phone plans, security, and streaming solutions. Empire Access provides broadband internet services to homes, businesses, local governments, and municipalities across Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Its expansion to Mount Morris and Perry marks another significant step in its buildout strategy to reach rural communities. Empire Access’ internet, named the fastest internet in the Northeast by PCMag also offers Gigabit-speed connectivity. For the most part, Gigabit-speed connectivity is only available in larger metropolitan areas. “We are excited by the opportunity to serve the people of Mount Morris and Perry,” says Jim Baase, CEO at Empire Access. “These, like many others in the region, are great communities to which Empire Access can provide a much-needed service in today’s evolving digital world. Alongside our internet, we maintain 24/7/365 locally-staffed customer service, to ensure that we will always be a business which understands the needs of our customers.” Empire Access pairs its high-speed fiber optic internet with a complete array of telecommunication and security services, as listed subsequently: Sign up to receive emails in order to find out when fiber optic service is available by clicking here! Further, check Empire Access’ availability in your area by visiting: https://empireaccess.wpenginepowered.com/service-area/, calling (800) 338-3300, or emailing info@empireaccess.com. About Empire Access: Founded in 1896 with a single telephone line in Prattsburgh, NY, Empire Access has grown significantly as a local communications provider serving large areas of Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Empire Access offers a wide range of products and services. Such services include scalable high-speed fiber optic internet, TV, phone, and advanced security solutions. Responding to a variety of business and consumer needs, Empire Access continues to expand into new areas while retaining a strong focus on local and personalized customer service. In 2017, 2018, and 2021, Empire Access was awarded Best Internet Service Provider in the Southern Tier region of New York. Empire Access has been named as the fastest Internet Service Provider in the Northeastern United States for two consecutive years by PC Mag. In January of 2023, Empire Access closed on a majority investment from funds controlled by Antin Infrastructure Partners. ### iMPR Media Contact for Empire Access: Jake Curtachio iMiller Public Relations Tel: 1.914.315.6424 Email: empireaccess@imillerpr.com Empire Access Media Contact: Ethan Ball, Marketing Specialist Empire Access Tel: 1.800.338.3300 Email: ethan.ball@empireaccess.com
Empire Access Expands to South Elmira, NY
Fastest Broadband Provider in the Northeast Continues Southern Tier Growth Strategy Elmira, NY, August 7, 2023 – Empire Access, a fiber internet service provider declared the fastest internet in the Northeast, is expanding its services to South Elmira, New York. Empire Access now provides its award-winning Internet services to business and home owners and local governments in the community. Empire Access continues its successful expansion strategy in Southern New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Headquartered in Prattsburgh, New York, Empire Access provides fiber-optic broadband services to rural communities throughout its service area. Empire will include South Elmira in its service area when construction is complete in Fall 2023. Empire Access, rated the fastest internet in the Northeast by PCMag, provides the customers it serves with backed internet services. For instance, enterprise-class WiFi, home automation, TV, streaming, security, and more. “Empire Access is thrilled to join the South Elmira community,” said Jim Baase, CEO at Empire Access. “We always strive to provide the best broadband services to the towns and cities in our network, and South Elmira will be no different. Our community-based approach to broadband buildouts ensures that we are always focussing our efforts on our customers. We maintain local support teams to ensure a deep connection with our customers because our employees live in these communities. Moreover, we understand our customers’ needs for affordable internet services, so they will never see promotion-ending price gimmicks, only affordable costs and great WiFi!” Empire Access pairs its high-speed fiber optic internet with a complete array of telecommunication and security services: Sign up to receive emails when fiber optic service is available by clicking here! Check Empire Access’ availability in your area by visiting: https://empireaccess.wpenginepowered.com/where-we-are/check-location, calling (800) 338-3300, or emailing info@empireaccess.com. About Empire Access:Founded in 1896 with a single telephone line in Prattsburgh, NY, Empire Access has grown significantly as a local communications provider serving large areas of Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Empire Access offers a wide range of products and services from scalable high-speed fiber optic internet, TV, phone, and advanced security solutions. Responding to a variety of business and consumer needs, Empire Access continues to expand into new areas while retaining a strong focus on local and personalized customer service. In 2017, 2018, and 2021, Empire Access was awarded Best Internet Service Provider in the Southern Tier region of New York. Empire Access has been named as the fastest Internet Service Provider in the Northeastern United States for two consecutive years by PC Mag. In January of 2023, Empire Access closed on a majority investment from funds controlled by Antin Infrastructure Partners. # iMPR Media Contact for Empire Access:Jake CurtachioiMiller Public RelationsTel: 1.914.315.6424Email: empireaccess@imillerpr.com Empire Access Media Contact:Ethan Ball, Marketing SpecialistEmpire AccessTel: 1.800.338.3300Email: ethan.ball@empireaccess.com
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