Living

Virtual Vienna Net Living Guide

Computer Dealers

Look in the telephone book under Computer:

Most of the computer components and terms are the same in German as in English, so if you have some knowledge about what you want before you go there, you should not have any language problems. There are many computer stores throughout Vienna, so there's probably one in your neighborhood check your telephone book.

Computer Repair

Computer service in Vienna is the same as in most countries. They prefer that you bring your equipment to them. If you wish to have a technician come to your home, you should ask for the rates in advance since they are higher for in-home service and have the necessary equipment available when the technician arrives (CD-ROMs, passwords, etc.)

Welcome to Vienna

You can purchase computer equipment here, but they usually do not include the software packages. There are a variety of computer system and brands. Asses your needs and go from there. Consult  the appropriate professional advisor for complete and up-to-the-minute information. Obtaining professional advice from a qualified person, firm or corporation can save you money and aggravation.

Your Internet Connection

If you want to use the Internet you will need an ISP (Internet Service Provider). Your first step is to check with your landlord. If any installation of wiring and equipment is necessary, you must often have written permission from your landlord before companies will preform the work. And depending on your choice for connection, you may need special hardware for your computer such as modems and network cards. The first two options are the most cost effective ones.

Cable Connection
This service is provided by your cable television company . The benefits of this type of service is a faster , flat rate connection with no per-minute charges. You will however, need a network card for your PC because the connection operates over a LAN (Local Area Network). Once you have your network card, they come to your home, connect their modem to your computer, and then install their software. It has no effect on your telephone.

Chello (UPC Telekabel)  is the only provider in Vienna:  Website (in German)

ADSL 
This service is similar to a cable connection, however it runs over a special phone line installed by your telephone company (Telekom Austria). You still need a network card, they provide the modem and software, and it is a flat-rate charge with your base telephone fees included. There are no per-minute fees and your telephone still operates while Online. The big advantage is the connection speed (512 k). Website

Telephone Connection
This is a standard Internet connection using a dial-up account via your computer modem and your telephone line. The connection speed depends on the modem you have installed (usually 56k). You will pay a per-minute fee when using your phone line for this type of connection, regardless of who your Internet provider is. This type of service is readily available either by the phone company Telekom Austria or a commercial company. Look in the phone book under Internet Providers.

ISDN
This service requires an ISDN modem. It runs over dual phone lines which have two separate phone numbers. The advantage over a regular connection is the speed (128+k) and the fact that you can still use your phone while you are connected. However, you do have to pay for both phone lines and there is still the per minute charge.

Satellite
This is said to be the fastest connection available. You will nedd a PC with a modem connected to a phone line, an account with an Internet service provider, a satellite dish pointed to the ASTRA satellites, an account with an Internet-via-Satellite service provider and aa DVB PC receiver card or USB box (typically supplied by your Internet via satellite service provider) Read More

Each of these connection options vary in price according to the level of service you choose. Most provide an one or more E-Mail accounts and some plans provide you with web space. Also please be aware not all options are available throughout Vienna.


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