FAQs

How long does it take for my fiber internet to be installed?

It’s currently taking anywhere from 60 to 120 days to connect subscribers to our high-speed fiber network once they've completed a service order. Once we've built our network, there are three steps to connecting you to internet service:

Step 1: Sign up for service. You can start the sign up process by completing this online form or by calling our office at (800) 282-5064, option 2, to see if your address is eligible for fiber internet service.

Step 2: Drop installation. A technician will determine where to connect your home or business to the fiber-optic cables on our poles. Once that has been established, a technician will connect your home or business to our pole. This can be done either overhead or underground.

Step 3: Home installation. A technician will come to your home at a scheduled time to connect the fiber from the front of your house to the inside.

Visit this page on the fiber installation process for a more detailed explanation.

Note, though it can take up to 120 days from the time you’ve placed your service order to the date of your home installation, most installations occur under this timeframe.

Do I get a paper bill from connectSCP?

No, you do not receive paper bills from connectSCP. Your internet bill is separate from your electric bill and process at different times. You will receive an email with details about your fiber bill. Be sure to add southcentralpower@smarthub.coop to your safe senders list.

You can also sign up for auto pay and never miss an internet bill.

What does Mbps mean?

Mbps means "megabits per second". The numbers "500x500" or "1000x1000" refer to the upload and download speeds of your internet. The higher the mbps, the faster your internet will be.

Who is connectSCP?

connectSCP, a 100% wholly-owned division of South Central Power, was created to provide connectivity to unserved and underserved members within our service area. Starting in March 2024, we launched fiber in the first available areas. As we look to the future, we hope to secure more grants from the state of Ohio to provide faster, more reliable fiber internet to more communities within Ohio.

Why does fiber matter?

On a grand scale, the internet connects us to the world and the world to us — in our homes and businesses here in Ohio. Let’s take things one step further and think about how we use the internet in our daily lives. From an economic perspective, the internet gives us the opportunity to work from home, manage the day-to-day operations of a business, gives us access to government services, manage our financial lives with online banking, grants access education resources to learn a new trade or profession or advance our skill sets within our current trade or profession. All of which contribute to the vitality of our local economy and community.

Then, there is the social aspect of the internet, connecting us to what matters most. That might be a video call with family and friends, sharing and viewing pictures on social media, or something as simple as an email letting someone know you are thinking about them. In so many ways, when a face-to-face visit is not an option, the internet makes maintaining connections to family and friends easier.

What are the advantages of fiber-based internet?

High Speeds: Fiber-optic cables transmit data using light signals, allowing for significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to copper-based cables. This results in faster upload and download speeds, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.

Low Latency: Fiber-optic internet has lower latency, which means data travels at high speeds with minimal delays. This is crucial for real-time applications such as online gaming, video conferencing, and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls.

Reliability: Fiber-optic cables are less susceptible to interference and signal degradation than traditional copper cables. They are not affected by electromagnetic interference or radio frequency interference, providing a more stable and reliable connection.

Symmetrical Speeds: Unlike some other broadband technologies that may offer faster download speeds than upload speeds, fiber-optic internet typically provides symmetrical speeds. This means that both upload and download speeds are equally fast, which is beneficial for activities like video conferencing and cloud-based services.

Future-Proofing: Investing in fiber-optic infrastructure is considered a future-proof solution because it can accommodate increasing bandwidth demands for years to come. As technologies evolve and data requirements grow, fiber-based internet is well-positioned to support these changes.

What is fiber-optic internet?

Fiber-optic internet uses thin strands of glass or plastic (fiber-optic cables) to transmit data using light signals. This technology allows for faster and more reliable internet connections compared to traditional copper-based alternatives.

Does weather affect fiber-optic internet performance?

Fiber-optic cables are less susceptible to weather-related interference compared to copper cables. The impact of weather on fiber-optic internet is minimal, and users typically experience consistent performance regardless of weather conditions.

Which internet package is right for me?

A number of factors go in to deciding what package is right for you and your home or business. For example, if your family will be connect-ing more than 10 devices to the internet, the Professional Internet Lifestyle plan might be best suited to you. For more information on what plan might be best for you, give us a call at 800-282-5064, option 2 for the fiber team.

How will connectSCP improve my experience with connectivity?

connectSCP’s network is being built using advanced fiber optic technology using premier materials. This will allow us the efficiency and capability to provide symmetrical upload and download speeds (fast no matter what you do online) and unlimited data usage, so you never have to budget your usage again.

These key features allow you to enjoy your internet freely and with absolutely minimal buffering and waiting.

What is the “digital divide”?

The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and communities that have access to and use digital technologies and those who do not. This divide encompasses disparities in access to the internet, computers, smartphones, and the skills necessary to navigate and utilize these technologies effectively.

What should I do if I have a problem with my service?

Please call 800-282-5064 for any issues related to your service or bill.

A local connectSCP representative will try to remotely help you resolve any issues you have. If we cannot fix the problem over the phone, we will send a technician to your house to fix the issue.