Showing posts with label Telecom Industry Insider. Show all posts

Unveiling Mesh Networks: Why Cable Providers Favor ERO Over Repeaters and Routers

In the dynamic world of internet connectivity, cable companies are spearheading a revolutionary shift towards mesh networks, exemplified by devices like ERO. But what drives this departure from traditional repeaters and routers, and how do mesh networks redefine the connectivity game in terms of speed and coverage distance? Let’s explore these questions to unravel the rationale behind this strategic transition.

In a world where maintaining connectivity can be tough, especially in remote or off-grid areas, Meshtastic is a game-changer. It's not just another communication tool; it signifies a shift towards decentralized, open-source networks, enabling users to communicate securely and effectively, even without traditional infrastructure like cell towers or Wi-Fi.

Understanding Meshtastic

Meshtastic is built on the ESP32 microcontroller and utilizes LoRa (Long Range) technology for communication. This combo enables long-range, low-power wireless communication between devices, forming a resilient mesh network where each device serves as a node, relaying messages across the network.

Key Features of Meshtastic

Decentralized Network: Meshtastic operates independently of centralized infrastructure, making it perfect for rural areas, outdoor adventures, or emergencies where traditional networks might be unavailable. Open-Source: Meshtastic's open-source nature means it's accessible to developers and enthusiasts, fostering innovation and community-driven development. Encrypted Messaging: Privacy and security are prioritized in Meshtastic, with messages being encrypted for confidentiality and protection against eavesdropping. Low-Cost and DIY-Friendly: Meshtastic devices are affordable and can be assembled and customized by individuals with basic technical skills, making the technology accessible to a wide range of users.

Practical Applications of Meshtastic

Meshtastic's versatility opens up numerous practical applications: Outdoor Adventures: Stay connected with fellow adventurers while exploring remote locations. Emergency Response: Meshtastic can be invaluable during disasters, providing communication when traditional networks fail. Community Networks: Establish local mesh networks for underserved communities, facilitating communication and information sharing.

Getting Started with Meshtastic

Interested in trying out Meshtastic? Here's how: Acquire Hardware: Get an ESP32-based device compatible with Meshtastic firmware. Setup and Configuration: Flash the Meshtastic firmware onto your device and configure settings using the Meshtastic app. Explore Use Cases: Experiment with different scenarios to understand Meshtastic's capabilities in diverse environments.

Join the Meshtastic Movement

As the world becomes more interconnected, technologies like Meshtastic offer a glimpse into the future of communication. Embrace the freedom of off-grid communication and explore the possibilities of this innovative platform. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a tech enthusiast, or someone seeking reliable communication beyond conventional networks, Meshtastic is set to redefine off-grid connectivity. Discover Meshtastic today and embark on a journey towards secure, decentralized communication. Stay tuned for more updates and insights into this groundbreaking technology.

China Mobile Free WiFi Hotspots

Exploring China Mobile Free WiFi Hotspots: Access and Benefits

As mobile internet usage continues to rise, China Mobile is at the forefront of providing connectivity solutions through free WiFi hotspots across the country. These hotspots play a crucial role in enhancing access to the internet, particularly in urban areas, public spaces, and transportation hubs. In this article, we’ll explore the availability, benefits, and impact of China Mobile’s free WiFi hotspots on users and the broader community.

What Are China Mobile Free WiFi Hotspots?

China Mobile, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world, has established an extensive network of free WiFi hotspots throughout China. These hotspots are strategically placed in various locations, including:

Public Parks: Many parks in urban areas offer free WiFi to visitors, allowing them to connect while enjoying nature.
Shopping Malls and Retail Stores: Major shopping centers often provide free WiFi to enhance the shopping experience and keep customers connected.
Transportation Hubs: Airports, train stations, and bus terminals frequently feature China Mobile’s free WiFi, making travel more convenient for passengers.
Educational Institutions: Many universities and colleges partner with China Mobile to provide students with free internet access on campus.

How to Access China Mobile Free WiFi Hotspots

Accessing China Mobile’s free WiFi hotspots is simple and user-friendly. Here’s how to get connected:

Find a Hotspot: Look for signage indicating the presence of China Mobile’s free WiFi in public areas.
Connect to the Network: Use your device’s WiFi settings to scan for available networks. Select the “China Mobile Free WiFi” option.
Register or Log In: Depending on the location, you may need to register with a mobile phone number or log in using a provided guest access method. Some hotspots may not require any registration at all.
Start Browsing: Once connected, you can enjoy free internet access for browsing, streaming, and social media.

Benefits of China Mobile Free WiFi Hotspots

The introduction of free WiFi hotspots by China Mobile offers several advantages:

1. Increased Accessibility

Free WiFi hotspots make internet access available to a larger population, especially in areas where people may not have reliable mobile data plans or home internet connections.

2. Support for Local Businesses

By providing free WiFi, China Mobile encourages foot traffic in shopping areas and cafes, benefiting local businesses. Customers are more likely to stay longer and make purchases if they have internet access.

3. Enhanced User Experience

Free hotspots improve the overall user experience for travelers and residents, making it easier to navigate, communicate, and access information in real-time.

4. Community Engagement

Free WiFi hotspots foster community interaction by providing a space for residents and visitors to connect online, share experiences, and engage with local content.

The Impact of Free WiFi on Urban Development

China Mobile’s free WiFi hotspots are part of a broader initiative to enhance urban infrastructure and digital connectivity. The benefits include:

Smart City Development: Free WiFi is a stepping stone toward smarter urban environments, where residents and visitors can access information and services seamlessly.
Educational Opportunities: Students and educators can utilize free WiFi for research, learning, and collaboration, bridging the digital divide in educational settings.
Economic Growth: Improved connectivity leads to increased online commerce and innovation, contributing to local and national economic growth.

Conclusion

China Mobile’s free WiFi hotspots play a vital role in enhancing connectivity across the country, making the internet accessible to millions of users. By providing free access in strategic locations, China Mobile supports local businesses, fosters community engagement, and contributes to the development of smart cities. As mobile internet usage continues to grow, initiatives like these are essential for ensuring that everyone can stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

What Happened to Cellular Phones & What Is In The Future?

What was the first cellular phone?

The telecom industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. One segment that has gained significant momentum in recent years is the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) market. MVNOs have emerged as key players, revolutionizing the telecom landscape by offering innovative and cost-effective solutions to consumers. This article delves into the growth prospects, market dynamics, and future trends shaping the MVNO market.

Explosive Growth of the MVNO Market:

There are several reasons why cell phone coverage in national parks can be bad:

According to a report by Domo, in 2020 an estimated 5.5 billion text messages were sent per day in the United States alone. This figure includes both SMS (Short Message Service) and MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) messages.

Globally, it is estimated that over 23 billion text messages are sent per day, according to a report by Text Request. This figure includes both person-to-person and application-to-person messages sent via SMS or other messaging platforms.

Who Has the Best 4G Coverage?

Staying connected on the go is essential, and reliable 4G coverage is key to ensuring you can browse, stream, and communicate without interruptions. Although 5G technology is expanding, 4G remains the backbone of mobile networks in many areas, offering widespread availability and dependable performance. But which carrier has the best 4G coverage in the United States? This article dives into a comprehensive comparison of the major U.S. carriers—Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and U.S. Cellular—to help you determine who offers the best 4G coverage for your needs.

Why 4G Coverage Still Matters

Yosemite National Park, located in California, is known for its stunning natural beauty and attracts a large number of visitors each year. However, due to the park's remote and rugged terrain, cellular coverage can be limited or unavailable in certain areas. Here's some information regarding cell coverage in Yosemite National Park:

Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming but extending into Montana and Idaho, is a vast and geographically diverse wilderness area known for its natural wonders, geysers, and wildlife. However, due to its remote location and rugged terrain, cellular coverage in Yellowstone National Park can be limited or unreliable. Here's some information regarding cell coverage in Yellowstone National Park:

City government planning plays a crucial role in improving wireless reception and ensuring reliable connectivity for residents and businesses.

Here are several ways in which city government planning can contribute to better wireless reception:

"Worst Cell Phone Coverage" Google Search Console

We have always been suspicious of Verizon and its marketing tactics over the last 2 decades and I am even more suspicious of them now. Here is why . . .

Verizon Wireless recently overtook AT&T Wireless as having the most cell phone coverage complaints in our dead cell zones database. AT&T for the longest time has had the most complaints. However, I have noticed a huge difference in Verizon's network performance lately and think there is a lot more parody among the carriers depending on where you are. Verizon doesn't have the best coverage anymore in our opinion and the database based on complaints confirms this.

Here is a map below that shows you the count of complaints in our database and Verizon now leads the pack. This doesn't surprise me as Verizon has always been arrogant about its marketing and claims. I recently have had several horrendous customer service experiences with them as well.

Search engine optimization is now a huge game in that these carriers invest millions of dollars per year to try and squash competitors and negative press. Verizon has hundreds of people on staff that look at websites like ours to try and discredit the validity of the content using dirty SEO tactics.

Our page "Worst Cell Phone Coverage" had been getting a ton of traction with Google and huge engagement in searches recently largely because consumers know they are getting screwed by many carriers in certain places. Why would this page suddenly fall out of the top 10 and move to 50+. The result is this page doesn't perform anymore for some reason. Did someone file false claims on the page to Google? I am very suspicious and would like to get to the bottom of it. Why would a perfectly fine page fall out of the top 10 so suddenly? We have changed nothing on this page recently.

Why Did Cox Fail at Wireless?

Why Didn't Cox Try Femtocells Inside of DVR's or UMA WiFi Cell Service?

Cable operators can fix indoor wireless service through their own backhaul via femtocells or WiFi through their own networks. There are a handful of femtocell companies that Cox could have partnered with but the best might have been Kineto which offers UMA WiFi for cell phone calls. Will Cox change their marketing strategy as a new MVNO partner with Sprint selling Sprint femtocells?

Cox Communications, a major cable and internet service provider in the United States, entered the wireless market in 2009 with the launch of its own wireless service. However, Cox eventually decided to discontinue its wireless operations and shut down its wireless network. While the exact reasons for Cox's failure in the wireless market may involve a combination of factors, here are a few potential reasons:

Competitive Landscape: The wireless market in the United States is highly competitive, dominated by major nationwide carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint (now part of T-Mobile). These carriers have extensive infrastructure, large customer bases, and significant resources to invest in network expansion and marketing. Entering such a competitive market can be challenging for a new player like Cox.

Limited Network Coverage: Building and maintaining a robust wireless network requires significant investment in infrastructure, including cell towers, backhaul connections, and network equipment. Cox's wireless network had limited coverage compared to the nationwide networks of established carriers. Limited coverage can be a disadvantage, especially for customers who prioritize extensive coverage and network reliability.

Lack of Subscriber Base Synergy: Cox primarily focused on providing cable and internet services and did not have an existing subscriber base of wireless customers to leverage. Established carriers often bundle wireless services with other offerings, such as cable TV or home internet, to provide additional value to their customers. Without a substantial customer base in wireless, Cox may have faced challenges in attracting and retaining wireless subscribers.

Evolving Technological Landscape: The wireless industry is constantly evolving, with advancements in network technology and the introduction of new services and features. Keeping up with these advancements requires substantial investment and technical expertise. Cox may have faced difficulties in competing and adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of the wireless industry.

It's important to note that the specific internal factors that led to Cox's decision to exit the wireless market may not be publicly disclosed. The decision to discontinue wireless operations is often based on a combination of financial, strategic, and market considerations specific to the company.

Ultimately, each company's success or failure in the wireless market depends on various factors, including market dynamics, competitive positioning, network coverage, subscriber base, and overall business strategy.

Cell Tower Lease Rates

Cell Tower Average Lease Rates by State

A cell tower lease is an arrangement between the mobile phone service providers ("provider" or "lessee") and a property owner that requires the provider to build and retain a cell service tower at a fixed lease rate for a defined number of years, usually with several renewal options. More than 300,000 such towers operate across the United States offering cellular service and data to customers across the world. The ever increasing demand for mobile phone and data coverage has led to almost 10,000 new cellular sites being built each year, with an average annual lease cost of $45,000.

Cell service lessees are responsible for the care, repair, improvement, and removal of the tower, giving the property owner responsible for lease care if any. The cell tower lease also adds value at the time of selling the house, in addition to producing rent for several years. The average cost of constructing a cell tower is around $175,000, but the cell tower lease will add to the property value of $600,000, or more.

In general, the fair market value of a lease is measured by the proximity of the location to the network of the cellular provider, or the value of the coverage given by the site. The availability of nearby alternative sites would also drive value. It is difficult for most landowners to assess the fair market value of a cellular lease because of a lack of available details. Lease rates for cell towers are not public knowledge, and those rates differ widely. However, in this highly specialized sector, there are companies which are specialized in providing information and assistance to property owners

There are two types of telecommunications leases in the telecommunications industry: a rooftop lease agreement, and a land lease agreement. Cellular sites are, in some cases, built on the roofs of industrial office buildings, and even residential living complexes. These rooftop installations take advantage of the height of the buildings on which they are installed to provide better cellular coverage. In comparison, land leases are usually arrangements between the cellular provider and the landowner of property for space at ground level where a cellular tower is built.

For certain landowners, there are some risks from cell tower leases. The tower occupies property that could be used for other uses of land such as parking lots or retention ponds. Towers establish long-term easements on the property, limiting the use of the property's land site to that or other sections. These leases may also postpone or stop the selling of a property if a seller can not find prospective buyers for the leases to the cell tower.

Cell tower demand is currently strong but this could change with many pending mergers in the cellular communications industry. What's more, one day the advancement of wireless technology could eliminate the need for cell towers, making the structures redundant. Some companies are currently designing smaller towers that can be installed on buildings to save land space and increase the number of possible cell tower locations.

A new study by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shows that landowners may be able to get more of that rent - money from the rental prices of cellular towers. Cell tower lease rates exposed.

TowerLeases.com is offering landowners free advice on their current mobile tower rent. TowerLease. Com is in the process of offering the landowner "free advice" on its current Cell Tower lease, according to HUD.

Lease negotiations for cell towers depend on location, the size of the object, the type of cell tower, and other factors. Specialist brokers and lawyers can advise property owners who wish to rent a mobile tower on a variety of examples, including, but not limited to, mobile tower rentals for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.

Cell Tower Leasing consultants use these factors to negotiate competitive lease rates for their clients. The size of the tower site is another property - based on a variable that determines the rental prices of the mobile towers. For example, leases are more expensive in the case of farmland than leases for residential and commercial properties. Also, tower sites are often located in densely populated areas, with a high concentration of mobile towers in urban areas.

The truth is that not all mobile tower leases are the same, and the value of your cell tower can fluctuate over time, depending on the size and location of a cell site. This creates a situation in which not all cell sites are equally valuable and the rental price for a mobile tower lease varies.

What would you do as a landowner to improve the chances of getting a contract for a cell tower?

1. Be Visible. Make sure you have a sign for a cell tower on your property gate or fence by the nearest major road indicating you have land available for lease. Attach your daytime phone number to the sign so wireless company agents have a perfect way to get in touch with you.

2. Pay Attention. Visit your local zoning hearings to see if there are any other towers being constructed in your town or county. Attend the hearings when a tower is on the agenda; you will be able to talk to the company's representative who deals with the sites all the time.

3. Be Patient. It may take years before the wireless companies are interested in your area. But they eventually will come– even in the more rural areas. Also, don’t be afraid to contact the carriers every six months or so to find out if things have changed.

4. Be Diligent. We are often contacted by people who wish to place a tower on their property. They expect that some companies will want to help them lease their land for a share of the action. Unfortunately, this person or company does not exist. The wireless companies don’t need to have you contact them. They know they can find land anywhere. As such, there is no reason for them to make their search rings or their phone numbers public.

5. Don’t Pay. Don’t entertain paying a “site listing service” or a site management company. They don’t work. If you are considering it, ask if they have local contacts in your city with the carriers.

Here is an article from 2013 which shows older lease rates.

Where is AT&T Fixing Outdoor Reception?

AT&T Antenna Adjustment on Highway 101 for Dropped Calls

AT&T continuously works to improve outdoor reception and expand its network coverage in various locations. The specific areas where AT&T focuses on fixing outdoor reception can vary over time, depending on factors such as network infrastructure plans, customer demand, and areas with reported coverage issues.

AT&T typically invests in network upgrades, including the deployment of additional cell towers, installation of new equipment, and optimization of existing infrastructure to enhance outdoor reception. They prioritize areas with high population density, major transportation routes, and areas where customers may experience weak or unreliable signal strength.

To determine the specific locations where AT&T is working on fixing outdoor reception, you can check the following sources:

AT&T Coverage Map: AT&T provides an online coverage map on their official website, which allows you to check the estimated coverage and signal strength in specific areas. The map may indicate areas where AT&T has recently improved or plans to enhance outdoor reception.

AT&T Customer Support: Contacting AT&T's customer support directly can provide you with more detailed and up-to-date information on network upgrades and coverage improvements in your area. They can inform you about ongoing projects or any scheduled upgrades for an outdoor reception.

Local News and Announcements: Local news sources or community forums may provide information about AT&T network expansion or improvements in specific regions or cities. Monitoring local news or checking with local residents can give you insights into areas where AT&T is actively working on outdoor reception fixes.

Remember that network improvements are an ongoing process, and AT&T continues to invest in expanding coverage and addressing reception issues. It's advisable to keep checking for updates from AT&T or reach out to their customer support for the most accurate and specific information regarding outdoor reception fixes in your area.

Cell Coverage Hole Detection

Cell coverage hole detection refers to the process of identifying areas or locations with poor or no cellular network coverage. These coverage holes can result in dropped calls, slow data speeds, or complete loss of connectivity in certain areas.

Detecting cell coverage holes is essential for telecommunication companies and network operators as it helps them identify areas that need improvement in terms of network infrastructure and signal strength. By identifying these coverage gaps, network providers can take necessary actions to enhance coverage and improve the overall user experience.

Here are some common methods used for cell coverage hole detection:

Customer Feedback: Network operators often rely on customer complaints and feedback to identify areas with poor coverage. Customers may report dropped calls, weak signals, or data connectivity issues, which can help pinpoint potential coverage holes.

Drive Testing: Drive testing involves driving or traveling through various areas while monitoring signal strength, call quality, and data performance. Specialized equipment or mobile apps can be used to collect data on network performance, allowing operators to identify coverage gaps.

Signal Mapping: Signal mapping involves creating detailed coverage maps by measuring signal strength and quality at various locations. This can be done using specialized tools or crowdsourcing data from users through dedicated apps or services.

Network Performance Monitoring: Network operators continuously monitor network performance metrics, including signal strength, call drop rates, and data throughput. Anomalies or patterns indicating poor coverage can be detected through data analysis.

Site Surveys: Network operators may conduct physical site surveys in areas where coverage issues are reported or suspected. These surveys involve evaluating the signal strength and quality on-site, assessing the surrounding environment, and identifying potential obstacles or interference sources.

By utilizing these methods, network operators can gather valuable data and insights into areas of poor coverage, enabling them to plan and implement solutions such as adding new cell towers, adjusting antenna configurations, or deploying signal boosters to improve coverage in those areas.

Do TV Signals Affect Your Phone Reception?

Yes, it’s true that LTE signals from local cell towers can interfere with TV antenna reception. This is because LTE is now carried on frequencies that used to be used for television, and so if an antenna isn’t designed to block those signals there can be problems. In an ideal world, signals in the air wouldn’t mingle, mix, or blend with other signals. Our world would be simpler if wireless RF signals would dutifully follow separation rules. However, they are freewheeling spirits that enjoy visiting their friends in the cables. This means that using your cell phone near your TV can result in interference.

In order for a TV signal to interfere at all with a cell signal, it would have to first be stronger than that cell signal. Over the ages engineers have done their very best to keep the interference to a minimum. A simple way to do this is to have the signals in the cable use a different frequency range than the signals in the air. It turns out that signals at different frequencies don’t like to mingle. However, the wireless spectrum has gotten crowded, and relatively recently cellphones have begun using frequencies that cable TV systems use. With our natural separation solution out the door we have to fall back to our next line of defense: RF shielding. This includes using multiple layers of shielding on our cables, tight connectors and well-designed cable modems and set-top boxes.

Transmitter Interference

Communication systems that transmit signals capable of generating interference include amateur radios, CBs and radio and television stations. Design flaws such as insufficient filtering and inadequate shielding or frayed or corroded wires may make equipment susceptible to transmitter interference. To determine whether the interference is caused by a transmitter or electrical equipment, unplug one household electronic component at a time to see if you can isolate any electrical interference source. If your equipment is reacting to nearby transmitters such as an amateur radio or CB, you will have interference only when the radio operator is talking and you will be able to hear only half of the conversation. If this is the case, you may be able to verify the interference source if you see an antenna mounted on a nearby house or car. Cordless telephones use radio frequencies and have no protection from interference. If you are experiencing interference on your cordless phone, you should contact the equipment manufacturer for assistance.

Electrical Interference and The TV

Electrical interference appears on the audio and video portion of television programming. Short bursts of interference may be caused by hair dryers, sewing machines, electric drills, doorbell transformers and garage door openers. If the pattern is on continuously, it may be caused by equipment that is in use full time. Electrical interference may be caused by power lines or electrical equipment in your home. Interference caused by your power company’s electrical equipment is normally continuous and your power company should be notified. A simple method of determining the location of electrical interference is by using a portable AM radio tuned to a quiet frequency at the lower end of the dial. You should hear static or a buzzing sound as you get close to the source of the interference. The closer you get, the more intense the static will be.

What Should I Be Doing?

If you find that interference has befallen you and the video on your TV is breaking up when you use your portable device, the first thing to do is check that the connector on the cable leading to your set-top box is tight. Experts at https://longrangesignal.com/which-direction-should-a-tv-antenna-face/ are able to assist others with a step by step guide in helping diagnose and solve the connection problems you face. So, whenever in a predicament on what to do, try doing a little light reading before touching anything.

Tightening the connector with your fingers is another sufficient solution, but keep in mind that if you move the set-top box the connector may get loose again. Next, check the cable feeding the set-top box. They’re not the least expensive in the store, but they also aren’t much more expensive than poor-quality cables. You will want to look for the cables with quad layer shielding. Finally, check for any RF splitters in the line. Look at the back of the RF splitter if the back plate is glued on instead of soldered on then you will want to replace the splitter.

While some of these problems can be fixed by yourself, it’s best to check with your cable provider first. They may offer you cables or splitters for free or a nominal fee, or provide you with suggestions for which ones to buy. Whatever the case, there’s always a solution to these problems and all you need to do is ask the right questions.

How to Tether an iPad to any 3G, 4G & 5G Phone

Since the iPad was first released, sophisticated users have been getting smart to avoid unnecessary additional data costs by tethering 3G phones to the iPad when a Wi-Fi signal is NOT available. Android smartphone users have it easiest tethering ipad to a 4G phone, especially on T-Mobile. Not a surprise to see that AT&T has not been very consumer-friendly to iPhone users and has made it very difficult for their data subscribers on the iPhone to tether any devices to their 3G service. However, the Wi-Fi-only iPad oan be used on the 3G network of any carrier to avoid purchasing another expensive data plan if they are already on Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile or a smaller regional carrier. So here is a great option especially if your carrier never intends to cap your data plan. Android users will likely be the heaviest adopters of this since most are already on other networks.

Southwest Airlines Request A Call Back Has Major Problems

Southwest Automatic Request A Call Back Has Major Issues

For several years Southwest has had a problem with its automatic call back feature. Instead of waiting on hold for 5, 10 or 20 minutes call customer service at their phone number 800-435-9792 it gives you the option of calling you back. When the system does call you back and you follow the instructions to of hitting any key when " " is on the line. It just hangs up.

I have even experimented with turning WiFi calling off on the phone and the problem still persists. I also added the Southwest 800 number to my phone book so it wouldn't be blocked. The reason I am writing about the problem is that apparent customer service is aware of it based on this discussion Serious Problems. Yet nothing has been done to fix the issue in the last two years.

I assume Southwest is a problem outsourcing their call back feature to a third party telecom company. I would like to know what telecom company is providing this service and would love to call them out also in this blog post. Southwest always has had great customer service and this happens to be something that does not seem to be getting resolved. I would bet AT&T and/or Verizon are providing this 8000 call back service and scamming Southwest by dropping calls and then charging them for each call. Wouldn't put it past them to do this.

This hangup problem has occurred with me several hundred times and it's annoying and wastes my time. The problem seems to happen most when the wait is longer than 10 minutes. Please chime in below under discussion and let us know if you have had similar issues with customer service.

I am also a huge fan of Southwest Airlines and think they are light years above every other airline by far. I think their customer service is amazing when you can reach them and love their credit card point system. Hopefully, enough people will read this post so they can do something to fix the problem. Comments appreciated.

How to Plan For a Hurricane

Here are 10 tips that should help you be prepared for the worst during a disaster.