DHAHRAN, 15 February 2005 — There has been considerable confusion over how to use the EasyNet Internet service that was introduced last weekend. First, users must be certain that the “366” service to their Saudi Telecom Al-Hatif line is turned on. That can be ascertained by dialing 907 and speaking with a representative of STC’s customer care.
Customer service at STC can also confirm whether “366” service to a specified telephone number is available. Unfortunately, it will be several months before EasyNet service is enabled in all areas of the Kingdom but STC did not want to withhold the launch of the service due to this situation. Check first, then attempt to connect.
Parents should take specific note of the fact that if “366” service is enabled to the home’s Al-Hatif fixed line, then their children will be able to dial to EasyNet with no prohibition. This means that when the monthly telephone bill comes, parents could get a mighty shock after the Internet is used on an unlimited, unrestricted basis at SR3 per hour. STC can block “366” service to an Al-Hatif line but this then means that both EasyNet and standard dial-up Internet services will be blocked.
To use EasyNet simply go to the “Control Panel” section found under the computer’s Start Menu. Click on “Network Connections” and create a new connection entering the desired EasyNet dial-up number of any Internet service provider (ISP). Each ISP has its own EasyNet dial-in number. Contact individual ISPs for the desired EasyNet number. A list of all ISPs and their contact details is available at www.isu.net.sa/index.htm.
Getting poor connectivity through any ISP’s EasyNet number? Dump it and try a different one.
It must be understood that there are now two Internet fixed line dial-up services in the Kingdom through STC. The Basic Service provides only access to the Internet via a 360-XXXX access number. The STC rate for this service is SR0.0375 per minute or SR2.25 per hour. The user needs an Internet card or subscription from an ISP to connect to the Internet with this service.
It must be emphasized that the introduction of EasyNet has not led to a discontinuation of this service. The second available Internet connectivity service, the new EasyNet Service, provides both access and Internet usage via a 366-XXXX access number. The all inclusive rate for this service is SR0.05 per minute or SR3 per hour, billed to the user’s Al-Hatif telephone bill. There is no other charge from an ISP for EasyNet.
Call data (minutes and charges) for Internet Basic Service (360-XXXX) will be shown on one line on the Al-Hatif bill and call data (minutes and charges) for Internet EasyNet Service (366-XXXX) will be shown on another line on a customer’s Al-Hatif invoice. This is because in any billing period a customer can call both 360 and 366 numbers. Thus 360 charges and 366 charges will be shown as separate lines on the invoice.
