netBlazr

netBlazr, established in 2010 by co-founders Jim Hanley (CEO) and Brough Turner (CTO), operates as a fixed wireless internet service provider in the Boston area. The founders, both with extensive backgrounds in technology and telecommunications, created the company to challenge the dominant internet service providers by offering a simplified, high-speed alternative without forcing customers into expensive service bundles. Turner, an MIT-educated electrical engineer and seasoned entrepreneur, previously founded Natural MicroSystems and NMS Communications. Hanley also possesses a deep background as a wireless industry executive at companies like Lightower and Nextel. Their shared vision was to address the lack of competition in the U.S. broadband market.

The company's business model centers on a "wireless last-mile" solution. It leverages competitive fiber-optic connections as a starting point and then distributes the internet signal wirelessly across a network of buildings. This creates a mesh-like architecture that enhances capacity and reliability as more buildings are added to the network. netBlazr generates revenue through monthly subscriptions for its internet services, catering to residential, business, and multi-dwelling unit (MDU) clients. The pricing structure is intentionally straightforward, featuring flat monthly rates with no contracts, hidden fees, or teaser rates. Service tiers include a 'Concierge' option for apartment and condo buildings, a standard residential service, and business plans with features like static IPs.

The core service is high-speed internet access delivered via a combination of fixed wireless and fiber technology. For residential customers, speeds can range from 10 Mbps to 500 Mbps, while business clients can receive speeds up to 1 Gbps. The company differentiates itself by focusing on customer service and transparent pricing, positioning itself as a consumer-friendly alternative to incumbent cable and telecom companies. Over its history, netBlazr raised approximately $1.25 million in funding through various rounds, with investors including MassChallenge and the National Science Foundation. In August 2022, netBlazr was acquired by GiGstreem, a national internet service provider, to accelerate its mission and expand its network capabilities while retaining its team.

Keywords: fixed wireless internet, Boston ISP, broadband alternative, residential internet, business internet, Jim Hanley, Brough Turner, mesh network, fiber internet, internet service provider, no-contract internet, MassChallenge, GiGstreem, concierge internet, MDU internet, high-speed broadband, last-mile solution, air-fiber, telecom disruption, unlimited data