General

What is IPSTAR?
IPSTAR is the high speed Internet solution that is available to everyone in Asia-Pacific with a clear view of the southern sky. IPSTAR uses satellite technology – not your phone line – to give you a fast and always-on Internet connection. IPSTAR gets you online instantly, and lets you open websites faster and download files in a fraction of the time it takes on a dial-up modem.

Do I still need a dial-up modem and telephone line?
No. There is no phone line or dial-up data modem required to use your IPSTAR broadband service.

What are my options for high speed satellite Internet?
There are various high speed Internet packages, with the cheapest service package starting at JPY 3,500 a month. All of the satellite Internet packages come with an always-on connection.

Determine what package you need at home based on your Internet needs. If you like to download videos and to surf websites that contain many graphics, then the Biz package, with a high speed Internet download speed of up to 4 Mbps, may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you use the Internet mainly for checking and sending emails, then the Home package, with a download speed of 1 Mbps, may meet your needs. For more details on satellite Internet pricing and package descriptions, visit the Packages & Pricing page. Once you have decided what meets your high speed Internet connection needs, get started with IPSTAR by signing up today.

Speed

How fast is the actual speed?
In most cases, the actual upload speed will likely be lower than the speed indicated in the service package during peak hours. Download speeds may also slow down in cases when system usage exceeds the download threshold for an extended period of time.

Can I play online games with IPSTAR ?
We do not recommend using the IPSTAR for running time-sensitive applications, such as online games, that require fractions-of-a-second user inputs.

What is transmission latency?
Latency refers to the amount of time it takes a packet of data to travel across a network. With satellite service, that data must travel up to the satellite and back – about 36,000 km. This round trip adds about a half-second delay to the total time your computer takes to communicate with a website or host server.

How can I measure the speed?
IPSTAR uses unique uplink technology which some speed test sites do not support, resulting in incorrect results.We recommend you access this site to measure connection speed.

Installation

Why is there a requirement that the IPSTAR system be professionally installed?
Certified IPSTAR installers ensure that your broadband connection works trouble-free and that the satellite dish is exactly pointed at the satellite.

Can the IPSTAR-certified installer hook up my home network?
You can inquire if this option is available through your installer when planning out the installation appointment. However, home networks are not included or supported by the IPSTAR technical support.

How quickly will I be up and running?
On average, most customers have their IPSTAR network installed within 2 weeks after confirmation of the order. When you place your order today, your name will be given to a certified IPSTAR installer, who will contact you within 2 business days. You and the installer will then work out a mutually agreeable date and time for the installation.

There is a big mountain at the southern sky, can I use IPSTAR?
Please contact us to see if IPSTAR works for you.

Is there any way to decrease the initial fee?
Please contact us to provide you with further information on how your local administration can help you get IPSTAR broadband Internet.

Compatibility

What are the computer system requirements for IPSTAR?
IPSTAR lets you connect your computer to the Internet whether you are running a Windows or Macintosh operating system. In order to ensure you get the most out of your Internet, we suggest you to use Windows 2000 , Mac OS 10.1 or higher, with 10/100 Ethernet connectivity.

Is IPSTAR compatible with my Mac?
Yes, IPSTAR is compatible with Mac OS 10.1 or higher, with 10/100 Ethernet connectivity.

Can I use IPSTAR to run a small network?
Yes, you can connect multiple home computers and laptops to a single IPSTAR Internet connection. Home networking equipment may be required and is not included in your IPSTAR system. For network setup, support and configuration, contact your network hardware manufacturer or operating system software developer.

Please understand that all computers on this network will be sharing a single connection. Simultaneous use of high bandwidth applications by multiple users may result in degradation of speed.

Can I use a PCMCIA card adapter for my laptop?
Yes. All you need to connect your computer to the IPSTAR modem is either a 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface Card or a PCMCIA adapter with an Ethernet connector.

Can I run a VPN over IPSTAR?
You may run a VPN via IPSTAR, but you will likely experience reduced speeds as much as 50-75%. You can restore your connection to full speed by simply disabling your VPN client when your session is over.

Satellite TV

If I already have satellite TVinstalled, do I need to get an additional dish for IPSTAR?
Yes, the IPSTAR system requires a unique dish in order to send and receive information via satellite. You cannot use your satellite TV dish for IPSTAR high speed Internet service.

I already have satellite TV installed, will this be on the same bill?
No, you will not be able to receive both services on the same bill. IPSTAR is not affiliated with any satellite TV company. At this time, there are no discounts for selecting both services.

Customer Care

How and where can I purchase the IPSTAR service package?
You can submit the application form from this site or you can speak with an IPSTAR sales representative by calling 03-6304-0921.

Can I use my credit card for the payment?
No, but you can pay us through bank transfer or through the post office bank.

Can I apply by fax?
Yes, our fax number is 03-6304-0941. 

In which area in Japan is IPSTAR not available?
IPSTAR service is not available in remote islands such as Okinawa, Amami, Ogasawara and Hachijo.

I’m a user of the IPSTAR service. How can I contact Customer Support when I have a question or problem?
For IPSTAR technical support and customer service, please contact us from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday-Friday at:

IPSTAR Japan Sumitomo Fudousan Nishi-Shinjku Building, Nishi Shinjuku, 7-20-1, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan Phone: 03-6304-0921 Fax: 03-6304-0941

Email: