Giving Thanks for The Things That Matter

A group of people giving thanks while enjoying a meal around a wooden table set with various dishes, fruits, and drinks. Candles are lit, creating a cozy atmosphere. The diners are smiling and engaged in conversation, surrounded by greenery.

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

Aerial view of a city in the Twin Tiers, with multiple bridges crossing a river. The cityscape nestles among green hills under a clear blue sky. Buildings of various sizes populate the area, with a prominent white building in the foreground.

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!

A serene lake mirrors vibrant autumn foliage under a cloudy sky, crowned by the prestigious "FLX Finest 2023 Winner" badge on the left side.

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!

Solving Wi-Fi and AirTies Issues: A Quick Troubleshooting Guide

A laptop on a wooden desk shows a glowing house icon surrounded by digital symbols, reflecting the essence of smart home technology. Nearby are troubleshooting notes in a notebook, alongside a pen, smartphone, potted plant, and cup, creating an aura of a modern workspace.

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

Fiber Optic Internet from Empire Access

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/

Fright-Free Fiber Internet

A person types on a laptop in a dimly lit room, with a glowing jack-o'-lantern and fiber optic decorations casting an eerie light. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, capturing a Halloween theme.

Don’t Get Tricked — The Right In-Home Fiber Internet Can Be a Treat First things first — in-home internet is essential. Phones, tablets, TVs, smart devices, video-enabled doorbells, and more depend on a reliable internet connection to function correctly. Choosing the right provider can seem frightening at first. It doesn’t have to be. We’ve collected a few of the top things to look for when you’re ready to make a decision. Check the MapGetting the best in-home connection starts with knowing what’s available. Check to see which fiber internet providers are in your area. Knowing what your service options are should be as easy as entering your address .  Understand Your NeedsThe amount of bandwidth you need depends on a variety of factors. For instance, the number of devices connected to the network and what the bandwidth is being used for impact how much bandwidth is needed. Users who regularly consume large amounts of bandwidth, such as remote workers or online gaming fans, require a plan that delivers more speed. Likewise for homes with multiple people and devices. Likewise for homes with multiple people and devices. Spook-Tacular SpeedsSpeed matters. For most households, anywhere from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps is more than enough. Some providers advertise plans with bandwidth up to 8 Gbps, but only a small fraction of people actually need that much power. Don’t Get Ghosted“It was a dark and stormy night when the internet went out.” If reading that sentence gave you chills, you’re not alone. It’s hard to binge-watch your favorite horror flicks with an internet connection that goes dark without warning.  While some providers have information about reliability readily available, reviews from real users in the area often paint a more complete picture. Check out what people have to say on social media about the companies you’re considering see if they’re hiding any skeletons behind closed doors. Beware of Phantom Fees and Jump-Scare ChargesThe last place you want to find any surprises is in your service contract. Beware of tricky providers who might try to bury introductory offers or hidden “gotcha” fees to raise your monthly bill after a few months. Instead, look for plans that outline everything up front and providers who are willing to explain important details clearly. Help Without a Horror StoryContacting customer support shouldn’t be scary. Problems don’t come with a warning, which is why it’s important to know that your provider makes the process of getting help as simple and stress-free as possible.  Empire Access: Fright-Free In-Home Fiber We’re about treats, not tricks. Empire Access is committed to providing a superior quality of service throughout the northeast with reliable fiber internet at stream-worthy speeds and scare-free customer support. Discover your Empire Experience today. Start by searching your address.

Getting to Know the Empire Access Team

Jane and four colleagues sit around a conference table, smiling and engaged in discussion. Jane is using her laptop to display a pie chart. Notebooks and pens scattered on the table suggest a collaborative meeting or brainstorming session.

Meet Jane Andreason Community and commitment — two things Empire Access and Jane Andreason have in common. When she was first starting out, Empire was known by a different name. It was North Penn Telephone and most of the customers she spoke with lived nearby. The kind of explosive growth that propelled the company to becoming one of the leading providers in the northeast was something Jane never could have imagined, and she’s seen a lot of change during her tenure. For instance, DSL replaced dial-up, copper lines made way for fiber, and Empire went from a regional provider to a well-known, award-winning name in the northeast. One thing that hasn’t changed is her commitment to customers. Helping customers is more than what she does. It’s what Jane’s passionate about. For instance, Jane stated, “I enjoy being in customer service with a very family-oriented company.” “I love this type of work. I love working with people.” She’s worked in customer service for over 40 years and been part of the Empire Access family for more than half that time. For someone like Jane, part of loving what she does comes back to having personal relationships with customers and coworkers. As a lifelong local of Roseville, she’s known many of them for years. Some have even formed friendships with the rest of her family and know Jane’s children by name. There have been plenty of memorable moments, too — a farmer riding up to the office on his John Deere tractor to pay his bill, or customers coming through the drive-through window and asking with a laugh if they can get some fries and a shake with their internet service. Jane is just one example of how community is at the heart of everything Empire does. From sponsoring teams in the area W Jackson Little League to participating in the annual Prattsburgh Summerfest and more. And for Jane, knowing that her job still helps the community — a much bigger community than two decades ago — is what being part of the Empire family is all about.

Beat the Heat with Fiber Gaming

A gaming setup with a computer monitor displaying a futuristic game immerses you in an electrifying atmosphere. The room glows with blue and pink ambient lighting, while a gaming chair, keyboard, speakers, and headphones sit on the wooden desk. Cozy interior touches include a sofa and framed pictures in the background.

The Ultimate Upgrade for the Serious Player As the relentless summer sun beats down, there’s no better escape than the cool haven of your room. The air conditioner hums in the background, setting the perfect atmosphere for a long gaming session. It’s a familiar scene: the atmosphere is thick with anticipation. You’re deep in the shadows of a covert raid, every click and command syncing seamlessly with your squad. Victory is in sight. The enemy is unsuspecting, the environment perfectly manipulated in your favor, and just as you’re about to clinch that sweet, epic win … disaster strikes. Lag. Your screen stutters, commands echo in a maddening delay, and by the time the digital dust settles, it’s game over for your team. The spoils of war snatched away, leaving you with that all-too-familiar bitter taste of what could’ve been. But what if that didn’t have to be your reality? Enter fiber internet, the game-changer of the gaming world.  A powerhouse in a realm where every millisecond is a battle. With fiber, you don’t just stand tall, you stand unmatched. Unparalleled Speeds Imagine this: a game with a huge 50GB file, and you’ve only got a few hours before a gaming night with friends. With traditional cable, you might as well make dinner, watch a movie, and maybe take a nap while waiting. With fiber? By the time you’ve grabbed a snack and returned, your download progress is already halfway done. Latency – Not on Fiber’s Watch In the world of gaming, latency is the villain we all despise. It’s the difference between landing the final blow or being taken down by an opponent you didn’t even see coming. But with fiber’s low latency, you’re not just reacting; you’re predicting, and ensuring you are the shadow no one ever sees coming. Stability – Keep Your Head in the Game Ever had one of those ready-to-throw-your-controller-across-the-room moments when, deep into a crucial game, everything suddenly goes dark? Random disconnections, another arch-nemesis of gamers everywhere. But with fiber’s rock-solid stability, those unexpected game-enders become tales of the past. With fiber, once you’re in the zone, you’re unstoppable. In Sync and On Point – Seamless Multiplayer Experiences For strategy games where every move counts or fast-paced shooters where team coordination is key, fiber ensures that you and your teammates are always on the same page. No more miscommunications or out-of-sync movements. Every strategy is executed with precision. Choose the Right Plan – Factors to Consider for Gaming When it comes to gaming, not all fiber plans are created equal. Here’s what you need to keep in mind: Empire Access – Your Cheat Code for Lag-Free Gaming The gaming world is fiercely competitive and constantly evolving. To stay ahead of the curve, it’s essential to have the best tools at your disposal. And when it comes to internet connectivity, fiber is the undisputed champion. For gamers, it’s not just about playing; it’s about playing to win. Don’t settle for less. Level up with Empire Access. As your local provider, our commitment to quality fiber means we care about consistent, reliable connectivity so you can outpace your rivals and enjoy uninterrupted, high-quality gameplay every time. Say goodbye to lag-induced heartbreaks. With Empire Access, your perfect summer escape is just a click away: Check availability in your area.

Ace your Connection: Why Fiber is the Best Back-to-School Upgrade

A happy family of three sits on the floor in a cozy living room, huddled together and smiling as they look at a laptop. Perhaps they're exploring online school options. The room features a beige sofa, a rug, and a shelf adorned with decorative items.

Gear up for back-to-school season with the first part of our three-part series dedicated to upgrading your internet experience. In an increasingly digital world, your choice of internet service is as critical as picking the perfect backpack.  Our series will focus on the benefits of fiber internet over traditional cable internet, looking at aspects like speed and performance, reliability and security, and the benefits of planning for your digital future. First up? Understanding why fiber’s speed and performance outshine traditional cable. A Quick Intro to Fiber Internet Fiber internet uses thin strands of glass to transmit information as pulses of light. Imagine a highway with cars traveling at the speed of light. That’s fiber. And because light travels fast, you get to enjoy lightning-fast internet speeds. Cable internet, on the other hand, uses copper cables – like the ones used for cable TV – to transmit data. But copper can’t match the speed of light, so it’s generally slower and less efficient than fiber. Cable might have been the go-to choice for residential internet in the past, but fiber is fast becoming the new favorite. More and more households are switching to fiber as it becomes readily available. Why? The Need for Speed and Performance With summer days fading and the bustle of back-to-school shopping taking center stage, it’s clear: A new school year is right around the corner. This means kids will soon be diving into online research for projects, participating in virtual study groups, and maybe even attending a few online classes. With all these digital demands, having a high-speed and efficient internet connection becomes not just a luxury, but a necessity. That’s where fiber internet shines. So, why is fiber the standout choice when it comes to speed and performance? Let’s paint a picture: Your teenager is researching for a crucial history project due in two days, your middle-schooler is uploading their science project (or maybe downloading the latest expansion pack for their favorite game – we’re not judging!), while you’re catching up on your streaming shows. With a cable connection, this would be the digital equivalent of a traffic jam.  But with a fiber connection, it’s a different story. You’re not sharing your bandwidth with your neighbors. This means no more internet “rush hours.” Homework gets done on time and your show streams smoothly. Another advantage of fiber is its ability to offer equal upload and download speeds. This is vital when you consider a typical evening in a busy family household. Your child is upstairs, diligently working on a video project for school (and definitely not gaming). It’s a big file that needs to be uploaded to the class website by tomorrow. Meanwhile, in the home office downstairs you’re preparing for an important meeting. Your colleague has just sent you a substantial presentation to download and review. With a cable connection, one of you will have to compromise. But with fiber, there’s no need for trade-offs. You can both send and receive heavy files at the same speed. And then there’s the bliss of buffer-free streaming. It’s one thing to experience a cliffhanger because of a great plotline, but it’s an entirely different and frustrating scenario when the suspense is caused by unreliable internet. The anticipation is no longer thrilling – it’s annoying. With a fiber connection, you’re spared from unwanted buffering. In essence, choosing fiber internet is choosing peace of mind for the whole family. No more worrying about internet speeds or disruptions – just focus on making the most of the school year and beyond. Empire Access: Your Local Fiber Provider As a local company, we’re not just in the business of fiber internet, we’re in the business of people. And remember, with us, you’re family. We know your name, not just your account number. We’re proud to offer you the fastest internet in the Northeast, according to independent reviews in 2022. We invite you to check out our plans, designed with the needs of every household in mind. Check Availability Now! Don’t wait until the first day of school to find out your internet service can’t handle the demands of the school year. Stay ahead of the back-to-school rush. Check availability in your area and join the Empire Access family today. Remember, with Empire Access, you CAN have it all – unparalleled speed, reliability, and service that treats you like family. Stay tuned for our next post where we explore more benefits of choosing fiber over traditional cable internet.

Watch Out for Scammers

Red Fiber Optic

In today’s digital age, scams and fraudulent activities have become increasingly sophisticated and prevalent. From phishing emails to fake online stores, scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive unsuspecting victims. As consumers, it’s crucial to be vigilant and well-informed to protect ourselves from falling into their traps. Spotting the Red Flags Unauthorized Use of Branding: Our employees will be in shirts that have authorized agent printed on it, as well as empire branding such as logo and our “Got Fiber?” slogan. Scammers can easily create counterfeit merchandise. Our employees will also have their official Empire Access badge on them. If you are still unsure cross-check the legitimacy of the seller by visiting the Empire Access website or call 800-338-3300. Confirm if there are employees in the area and if the merchandise matches. Quickly: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring potential victims to make impulsive decisions. Legitimate sellers don’t usually rush customers into buying something. Unusual Contact Information: Be wary of contact information provided by the seller. Look up the official contact details of the company independently and reach out to them to verify the legitimacy of the offer. No Online Presence: If the seller lacks a professional online presence, such as an official website or verified social media accounts, it’s a sign that something might be off. Protecting Yourself from Scams Research Protecting yourself from scams requires a combination of awareness, caution, and verification. Scammers are always coming up with new tactics, but by staying informed and being vigilant, you can greatly reduce your risk of falling victim to their schemes. Remember, Empire Access and our employees have proper channels for communication and verification. If you ever have doubts, it’s better to reach out to us directly using official contact information rather than risking your hard-earned money. Stay safe and stay smart!

Award-Winning Internet Service Provider

Empire Access continues to win accolades for our unwavering commitment to excellence.

When Empire came into my neighborhood, I decided to give them a shot. So grateful I did. Besides the LIGHTNING fast speeds, my favorite thing about Empire is their incredible customer service … can’t say enough good things about Empire Access. I’ve loved every day I’ve been able to use their internet services…

- Steve A.

I have to say that everyone that I have dealt with at Empire has been top notch… At times, I felt like we were their only customer. As far as the Fiber is concerned, it gives us reliability that we have not had — ever — and the speed that we desperately lacked…

- Joe C., Hunt Hollow Ski Club, Naples, NY
Hunt Hollow Ski Club, Naples, NY

I would just like to add that I am very happy that I changed providers! It’s so nice to get a real person who can answer my picky little questions right away without having to wait, thank you for everything.

- Sidney P., Hornell, NY
Young Woman Smiling

Fiber connectivity is amazing, and so are the folks who brought it to my house and keep it running smoothly. As always, especially when I have the luxury of not thinking about it at all, you have my thanks.

- Jason T., Big Flats, NY
Happy Fiber Customer

They got everything running in no time and were super helpful in setting up my home and answering questions. I truly appreciate the great service.

- Eric M., Corning, NY
Smiling Man

We are very thankful to Empire Access for selecting our area to be our service provider for fiber optic high speed internet and phone service. We are very happy with the speed they provide along with the unlimited data. My husband and myself were very impressed with everyone that we dealt with…

- Veda M., Elmira, NY
Happy Fiber Customer

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