Internet

Speed, Wi-Fi coverage, outages, and the troubleshooting that actually works.

Understanding Internet Speed, Wi-Fi Speed, and Device Limits

Your plan speed, Wi-Fi speed, and device speed are related. They are different measurements, and they don't always match in real use.

Before You Start

  • Know which plan you are on before comparing results to expectations.
  • Check whether you are testing on Wi-Fi or Ethernet because that changes what a normal result looks like.

Steps

Start by comparing your plan speed with one close-range or wired test on a modern device.
Remember that Wi-Fi speeds can be lower because of distance, room layout, and interference.
Check the device itself too, since older phones, TVs, and laptops may not support faster Wi-Fi or Ethernet rates.
If wired results are strong and one device is still slow, focus on that device rather than the internet plan.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my phone slower than my laptop on the same Wi-Fi?

Different devices have different Wi-Fi chips, antennas, and limits, so they don't always perform the same way.

Do I need gig internet for normal streaming and browsing?

Not always. The right plan depends on how many people, devices, and heavy-use activities happen at the same time in your home.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How Wi-Fi Extenders Work with Purple Cow Internet

Wi-Fi extenders can help improve coverage in larger homes or rooms where the signal is weak. We can help you decide whether an extender, better router placement, or another Wi-Fi option is the right fit for your home.

Before You Start

  • Test your Wi-Fi close to the router first so you know whether the issue is coverage or the internet connection itself.
  • Extenders work best when they can still receive a strong signal from the main router or fibre equipment.
  • Purple Cow Wi-Fi extender availability and pricing may depend on your service and equipment.

Extender Pricing and Availability

Wi-Fi extenders may be available through the customer portal or through support. Check the customer portal or call or text 902-800-2660 for current availability and pricing.

If support confirms the current extender option for your account, the expected monthly price is $10 per month plus tax.

Steps

Place the main router or fibre equipment in the most open, central spot available.
Test the rooms where Wi-Fi feels weak.
If the weak room is far from the router, an extender may help carry the signal farther.
Place the extender between the router and the weak area, not at the very edge of the signal.
Use the correct Wi-Fi app if your equipment supports app-guided setup.

Using the Wi-Fi App

The app you use depends on your service and equipment. Some Purple Cow Internet equipment uses the Purple WiFi App. Purple Fibre equipment may use the Purple Fibre app or Nokia WiFi app experience. The app can help with Wi-Fi names, passwords, connected devices, and in some cases extender or mesh setup.

Frequently asked questions

Will an extender fix every Wi-Fi problem?

Extenders help with coverage. They won't fix a service interruption, a modem or ONT problem, or a device that is too old to handle higher speeds.

Where should I put a Wi-Fi extender?

Put it where it can still get a good signal from the main router or fibre equipment. If it is too far away, it may repeat a weak signal.

Can Purple Cow help me choose between an extender and mesh?

Yes. We can help you decide whether an extender, app-guided setup, router placement change, or mesh-style setup makes the most sense for your home.

How much is a Wi-Fi extender?

Check your portal or reach out for current pricing. If the current extender option is available for your account, the expected price is $10 per month plus tax.

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How to Understand the Lights on Your Purple Fibre ONT

The ONT is the fibre modem for Purple Fibre service. Its lights can help show whether a problem looks like power, fibre signal, internet activation, or Wi-Fi.

Before You Start

  • Look at the ONT before restarting it so you can note which lights are on, off, or unusual.
  • Light labels can vary. The most helpful ones are usually Power, PON or Optical, Alarm, and Internet.
  • Don't unplug the fibre line or open fibre equipment covers.

Steps

Check whether the Power light is on and stable so you know the ONT is receiving power.
Look for the fibre signal light, usually labelled PON or Optical. If it is off, red, or clearly abnormal, the issue may be fibre-signal related rather than a simple Wi-Fi issue.
Check for an Alarm light. If an alarm is showing, reach out rather than continuing extended troubleshooting.
Check the Internet light to see whether the ONT appears to be online after the fibre signal comes up.
If the ONT lights look normal and only Wi-Fi devices are affected, move to Wi-Fi troubleshooting instead of assuming the fibre line is down.

Frequently asked questions

Which ONT lights matter most?

Start with Power, PON or Optical, Alarm, and Internet. Those lights usually show whether the ONT is powered, seeing fibre signal, and online.

Can I fix a red or missing PON light myself?

A red or missing PON light often points to a signal or provisioning issue. Reach out and we'll help from there.

When should I reach out?

If things still aren't behaving, reach out and we'll help from there.

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How to Find Your Wi-Fi Name and Password

Your Wi-Fi name and password may be printed on the equipment label or saved in the app that manages your Wi-Fi.

Before You Start

  • Check whether you are using Purple Cow's equipment or your own router, because the password may live in different places.
  • If you changed the Wi-Fi name or password before, the original sticker may no longer match your live network.

Steps

Look for a label on your Purple Cow modem, router, gateway, or fibre equipment that shows the default Wi-Fi name and password.
If you use the Purple WiFi App or Purple Fibre App, open the app and check the current Wi-Fi details there.
If you use your own router, check that router's app or admin page instead of the Purple Cow label.
Once you find the right network, test it on one device before reconnecting everything else in your home.

Frequently asked questions

What if the sticker password doesn't work?

That usually means the Wi-Fi settings were changed after setup, so you should check the app or router settings for the current password.

Can Purple Cow tell me the password if I changed it myself?

We can help you find the right place to check or reset it. If you use your own router, that router's app or settings controls the saved password.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Change Your Wi-Fi Name or Password

Changing your Wi-Fi name or password is a good way to secure your network or make it easier for your household to reconnect devices. If Purple Cow manages your Wi-Fi equipment, the change usually happens in the Purple WiFi App or Purple Fibre App.

Before You Start

  • Write down the new Wi-Fi name and password before saving the change.
  • Be ready to reconnect phones, TVs, speakers, and other smart devices after the update.

Steps

Open the app or settings that control your Wi-Fi: the Purple WiFi App, Purple Fibre App, or your own router's app or admin page.
Change the Wi-Fi network name, password, or both, then save the update.
Reconnect your main devices using the new password.
If a smart device won't reconnect, move it close to the router and try again with the updated details.

Frequently asked questions

Will changing my Wi-Fi password disconnect everything?

Yes. Any device using the old password will need to be reconnected with the new one.

Can I keep the same Wi-Fi name and only change the password?

Yes. You can change either one on its own if that works better for your home setup.

What if I use my own router?

Use your router's own app or admin page. Purple Cow apps manage Purple Cow-supported equipment only.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Fix No Internet on Purple Cow Internet

Internet issues are often caused by power, wiring, activation, or Wi-Fi setup, so it helps to rule those out in a simple order.

Before You Start

  • Check whether the problem affects every device or only one phone, laptop, or TV.
  • If this is a brand-new self-install, keep your modem connected while you work through the checks.
  • Stay safe and skip opening wall plates, outside boxes, or electrical panels. Reach out if wiring looks damaged or unsafe.

Steps

Confirm the modem has power and that the coax cable is finger-tight at both ends.
Restart the modem once, then wait several minutes for the main lights to settle before testing again.
Test more than one device if you can. This helps separate a service issue from a single-device or Wi-Fi issue.
If this is a new self-install, leave the modem connected for about 15 minutes and text Plugged In to 833-331-1163 only if your setup instructions tell you to.
If the modem still won't come online, try another coax outlet if one is available, then reach out with what you already tried.

Frequently asked questions

What if my self-install modem never comes online?

If the modem stays offline after the basic checks and activation step, we may need to review the order or arrange more help.

Should I keep trying random resets over and over?

One clean restart is useful. After that, the next best step is checking activation, wiring, or line status.

When should I reach out?

If things still aren't behaving, reach out and we'll help from there.

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How to Check if Purple Cow Internet Is Available at Your Address

Purple Cow service options depend on your exact address, building, and unit. Checking availability first is the fastest way to confirm what is available for your home.

Before You Start

  • Have the full service address ready, including unit number and postal code.
  • Keep a phone number and email address handy in case we need to follow up.

Steps

Enter your full address in the Purple Cow signup flow, or reach out with the address details.
Check which Purple Cow services are available at that specific address.
If you live in an apartment or condo, include the exact unit number so the building can be matched correctly.
If the address isn't showing as available, reach out and we can double-check. Service may not be available at that address at this time, and availability can change by building or unit.

Frequently asked questions

Why can my neighbour get a different Purple Cow service than I can?

Availability can change by building, unit wiring, and whether Purple Fibre is active at a specific address.

Can I check service before I move in?

Yes. We can usually check serviceability before your move date as long as you have the full address.

What if the address checker says service is not available?

Reach out with the full address and unit number. We can double-check whether service is not available at that address at this time, or whether the address needs a closer look.

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How Port Forwarding, Gaming, and Work VPNs Work with Purple Cow Internet

Most gaming, port forwarding, and work VPN questions come down to your router setup, your app settings, and whether the internet connection itself is stable.

Before You Start

  • Know whether you are using Purple Cow equipment or your own router before changing any settings.
  • Test your basic internet connection first so you don't mistake a general connection issue for a gaming or VPN issue.

Steps

Confirm that normal internet browsing works before changing any gaming, VPN, or forwarding settings.
If you need port forwarding, set it in the router that controls your home network and save the right port and device details there.
For gaming or work VPN issues, test again after restarting the router and the device using the game or VPN.
If the internet is stable and the app or VPN still needs help, check the software provider's instructions too because many of those settings live on the device, not with Purple Cow.

Frequently asked questions

Does Purple Cow block gaming?

No. If gaming is not working well, the cause is usually a connection problem, a Wi-Fi issue, or a router or game setting that needs attention.

Can Purple Cow set up port forwarding for my custom app?

We can help confirm your internet connection is working. App-specific forwarding and firewall setup often depends on the router and software you use.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Run a Speed Test for Purple Cow Internet

A good speed test helps separate slow Wi-Fi from an internet connection problem and gives us useful details if you need help.

Before You Start

  • Close VPNs, streaming apps, cloud backups, and large downloads before you test.
  • If you can, run one wired test first because wired results are the best baseline.

Steps

Test on one modern device first so background traffic from other devices doesn't distort the result.
Run a wired speed test if possible, then compare it with a Wi-Fi test in the same room.
Repeat the test a few times at the same spot to see whether the result is consistent.
If you reach out for help, share the tested device, whether the test was wired or Wi-Fi, and roughly where you were in the home.

Frequently asked questions

Why are my Wi-Fi speed tests lower than my plan speed?

Wi-Fi speed depends on distance, walls, signal quality, and device limits, so it is often lower than a wired result.

What is the best speed test to use?

Use a trusted browser or app-based speed test and keep the test conditions the same when you compare results.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Connect a New Device to Wi-Fi

Most Wi-Fi connection issues come down to picking the right network, entering the correct password, and testing close to the router first.

Before You Start

  • Make sure you know the current Wi-Fi name and password before you start.
  • If the device is brand new, complete its basic setup before trying to connect it to Wi-Fi.

Steps

Open the Wi-Fi settings on the device and select your Purple Cow network name.
Enter the password carefully, paying attention to upper and lower case letters.
Stay close to the router or modem for the first connection test.
If the device still won't connect, restart the device once and try the password again.
For smart-home devices, try setting them up close to the router first because many of them need a strong signal during setup.

Frequently asked questions

Why do some smart devices only connect on the first try when I am close to the router?

Some devices need a strong signal during setup, especially smaller smart-home devices that use simpler Wi-Fi hardware.

What if one device won't connect and everything else works?

That usually points to a device setting, saved password, or signal issue on that specific device instead of a full internet problem.

Why can't my smart device see the Wi-Fi network?

Some smart devices work best on a simple 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection during setup. Move the device close to the router and check the device maker's setup steps.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Set Up Purple Cow Internet for the First Time

Your first setup steps depend on the service available at your address. Every order starts with confirming your address, contact details, and whether your setup is self-install or technician-installed.

Before You Start

  • Have your order confirmation handy so you can check which Purple Cow service is being installed.
  • Check whether your order includes self-install equipment shipping or a technician appointment window.

Steps

Choose the service and plan that matches your address, then finish signup with the correct service address and contact details.
Watch for your setup email, shipping details, or appointment window, depending on the service type.
For self-install orders, connect the modem to power and the coax outlet, then wait about 15 minutes. Text Plugged In to 833-331-1163 only if your setup instructions tell you to activate that way.
For Purple Fibre, keep the appointment window and let the technician complete the ONT setup before testing your Wi-Fi and devices.

Frequently asked questions

When does billing start?

Billing begins when your service actually goes live, not just when you place the order.

Do I set up Purple Fibre myself?

Purple Fibre is installed by a technician. If your order qualifies for self-install, your setup email will say so.

What if I'm not sure which setup type I have?

Check your order confirmation or reach out. We'll confirm whether you should expect shipped equipment, a technician visit, or another next step.

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How to Restart Your Modem or ONT When the Internet Is Not Working

A simple restart is the safest first step when your internet suddenly stops working or your connection seems unstable.

Before You Start

  • Save any active work or video calls before restarting the equipment.
  • If you use Purple Cow Home Phone, remember that the phone line may stop working until the internet equipment comes back online.
  • Use a normal restart first. Skip the pinhole reset or factory-reset button unless we ask you to use it.

Steps

Unplug the modem or ONT from power for about 30 seconds.
Plug it back in and wait several minutes for the main lights to settle before testing again.
Restart your router or mesh unit too if your internet equipment and Wi-Fi equipment are separate.
Test one device close to the equipment first so you can tell whether the issue is internet service or Wi-Fi coverage.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a restart take?

Most restarts finish within a few minutes. Fibre and cable equipment can take a little longer to reconnect fully.

Will a restart erase my Wi-Fi name or password?

No. A normal restart doesn't erase your Wi-Fi settings. A factory reset is different.

When should I reach out?

If things still aren't behaving, reach out and we'll help from there.

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How to Improve Your Wi-Fi Speed and Coverage

Wi-Fi performance depends on placement, distance, walls, and the device you are using. A few simple checks can show whether the issue is Wi-Fi coverage or the internet connection itself.

Before You Start

  • Test one device close to the router first so you know whether the issue is coverage or the full internet connection.
  • Look for barriers such as thick walls, metal objects, or closed cabinets around the router or ONT.

Steps

Move the router or Wi-Fi equipment to a more open and central spot if possible.
Restart the internet equipment and then test your connection again in the main rooms you use most.
Use a wired test or a close-range test to compare against the slower room.
If large parts of the home still have weak coverage, reach out and we can help you choose between a Purple Cow router, Wi-Fi extender, app-guided setup, or mesh-style setup.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my Wi-Fi slower in the bedroom than beside the router?

Distance and obstacles reduce Wi-Fi signal, so speeds often drop as you move farther from the equipment.

Will mesh help with dead zones?

It can. Some homes improve with better router placement, a Purple Cow router, an extender, or mesh hardware. We can help you choose the right next step for your layout.

How much is a Wi-Fi extender?

Check your portal or reach out for current pricing. If the current extender option is available for your account, the expected price is $10 per month plus tax.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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How to Use a Purple Cow Router or Your Own Router

A Purple Cow router is the simplest supported option for most homes. If you prefer to manage your own network, you can also use your own router for more control over Wi-Fi settings, device features, or network layout.

Before You Start

  • Have the router's power cable, Ethernet cable, and setup app or admin details ready before you switch.
  • If you want the most supportable setup, start with the Purple Cow router option before choosing a third-party router.

Steps

If you are using a Purple Cow router, connect it as shown in your setup instructions and manage Wi-Fi through the supported app.
If you are using your own router, connect the router's WAN or Internet port to the Purple Cow internet equipment with Ethernet.
Set up the Wi-Fi name, password, and any device settings in the router's app or admin page.
Test one wired or Wi-Fi device through the router before reconnecting the rest of the home.

Frequently asked questions

Why should I use a Purple Cow router?

A Purple Cow router keeps setup simpler and gives support a clearer path to help with Wi-Fi questions.

Will Purple Cow fully configure my third-party router for me?

We can help with the Purple Cow internet connection. Advanced setup on a customer-owned router may still depend on the router maker's instructions.

Can I switch back if I don't like the new router?

Yes. You can go back to the earlier setup if the old equipment is still available and connected properly.

What if things still aren't behaving?

If things still aren't behaving, call or text 902-800-2660 and we'll help from there.

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Still stuck? Talk to a real person.

No phone tree, no ticket number. Our support cows are in Nova Scotia and they answer.

General & billing
1-902-800-2660

Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Technical support
1-902-800-2660

Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.