Choosing a fibre provider involves evaluating factors like affordability, reliability, and flexibility. Openserve, one of South Africa’s largest open-access network providers, partners with top ISPs to deliver uncapped, high-speed fibre connectivity. But does it live up to expectations?
In this review, we assess Openserve’s fibre solutions, pricing, and customer experience to help you make an informed decision.
Company Overview
Openserve is a trusted name in the telecommunications landscape, offering extensive fibre coverage across the country. As an open-access network, it collaborates with leading ISPs to deliver affordable, uncapped internet packages for homes, small businesses, and enterprises.
With a focus on reliability and scalability, Openserve has become a cornerstone of digital connectivity.
Brand Promise
Openserve aims to make reliable fibre connectivity accessible to all South Africans. By enabling ISPs to offer uncapped, scalable packages, Openserve ensures customers benefit from seamless internet experiences. Their focus on broad coverage, affordability, and free installation positions them as a key enabler of digital transformation.
Core Offerings
1. Extensive Fibre Network
Openserve provides one of the most expansive fibre networks in South Africa, offering coverage in urban, suburban, and some semi-rural areas.
2. ISP Partnered Deals
Top ISPs like Axxess, WebAfrica, and MWEB utilise Openserve’s network to deliver uncapped fibre packages tailored to various needs.
3. Uncapped Internet
All packages on Openserve’s network are uncapped, ensuring users can stream, browse, and work without worrying about data limits.
4. Free Installation & Activation
Most ISP deals include free installation and activation, reducing upfront costs and enhancing accessibility.
5. Customisable Speeds
Packages range from entry-level speeds of 20 Mbps to more advanced options offering 500 Mbps, catering to diverse requirements.
Featured ISP Deals on Openserve Network
| Monthly Price | ISP | Speed Down | Speed Up | Package Name | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R329.00 | Axxess | 20 Mbps | 10 Mbps | 20/10Mbps Uncapped Fibre | Free installation, no activation fee, uncapped |
| R399.00 | Axxess | 40 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 40/20Mbps Uncapped Fibre | Free installation, no activation fee, uncapped |
| R535.00 | Axxess | 50 Mbps | 25 Mbps | 50/25Mbps Uncapped Fibre (Promo) | Free WiFi router, promo price for 2 months (new clients only), free installation, uncapped |
| R349.00 | MWEB Home | 20 Mbps | 10 Mbps | 20/10Mbps Uncapped Web Connect | Free installation, no activation fee, uncapped |
| R529.00 | WebAfrica | 50 Mbps | 25 Mbps | 50/25Mbps Uncapped Fibre | First 2 months discounted (R140 off), free WiFi router, free installation |
| R829.00 | WebAfrica | 100 Mbps | 50 Mbps | 100/50Mbps Uncapped Fibre | Free installation worth R2,799, free-to-use router, uncapped |
| R1,009.00 | WebAfrica | 200 Mbps | 100 Mbps | 200/100Mbps Uncapped Fibre | Free installation worth R2,799, free-to-use router, uncapped |
| R1,259.00 | WebAfrica | 500 Mbps | 250 Mbps | 500/250Mbps Uncapped Fibre | Free installation worth R2,799, free-to-use router, uncapped |
What Makes Openserve Unique?
- Open-Access Model – Openserve collaborates with multiple ISPs, giving customers the freedom to select the provider and package that best suits their needs.
- Reliable Fibre Network – Known for consistent speeds and minimal downtime, Openserve provides dependable fibre connectivity.
- Uncapped Internet – All packages offer unlimited data usage with no throttling or fair usage policies (FUPs) in most cases.
- Free Installation – Many ISP deals include free installation and activation, simplifying the onboarding process.
- Flexible Contracts – Month-to-month contracts are widely available, offering flexibility with no long-term commitments.
Service and Support
Openserve Connect App
To enhance the customer experience, Openserve provides the Openserve Connect App, enabling users to:
- Monitor connection speeds.
- Log service tickets.
- Access self-help features.
ISP Support
Since Openserve operates as a network provider, customer support is managed by the chosen ISP. The quality of support can vary depending on the ISP.
Customer Experiences: Reviews and Testimonials
The majority of feedback on HelloPeter regarding Openserve is critical, highlighting significant issues:
- Poor Customer Support: Numerous complaints about delayed responses, unresolved tickets, and lack of accountability.
- Installation Delays: Many users experienced prolonged waiting periods for installations, even when fibre infrastructure was in place.
- Service Interruptions: Complaints about frequent downtime and lack of communication during outages.
- Technical Failures: Issues with routers, incorrect installations, and technicians failing to resolve problems.
Key Takeaways
✅ Strengths:
- Extensive Fibre Network: Openserve’s wide coverage ensures connectivity in urban and suburban areas, making it accessible to many South Africans.
- Reliable Speeds: Once installed and stabilised, the fibre connection generally delivers consistent and fast internet speeds.
- Partnered ISP Flexibility: Openserve collaborates with multiple ISPs, giving customers a variety of package and pricing options.
❌ Weaknesses:
- Poor Customer Support: Frequently cited as a significant issue, with delays in resolving tickets and lack of communication during outages.
- Installation Delays: Many users experience long waiting periods, even in fibre-enabled areas.
- Service Interruptions: Frequent outages and inconsistent communication during downtime negatively impact user experience.
- Technical Failures: Reports of faulty installations, router issues, and unresolved technical problems are common.
✅ Final Verdict: Is Openserve Worth It?
Openserve’s wide-reaching fibre network and partnerships with leading ISPs make it a key player in South Africa’s connectivity landscape. Their uncapped fibre packages, extensive coverage, and flexible ISP options offer value to customers seeking reliable internet solutions. However, based on customer feedback from platforms like HelloPeter, issues such as poor customer support, installation delays, and service interruptions remain significant challenges.
Openserve is a solid choice for those prioritising wide coverage and competitive ISP deals, but potential customers should carefully consider the support quality of their chosen ISP and plan for possible delays during installation or technical resolutions.
Openserve Alternatives
If you’re still weighing your options, consider these alternatives:
- Centracom: Another potential option for enhanced communication infrastructure.
Choosing a telecom provider is a big decision. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider using our service. We’ve connected over 50,000 users through our service since 2009 and we’re perfectly positioned to help you too.
Visit our Get Quote page to reach out so we can connect you with the perfect provider.
