IdeaTek acquires wireless internet services from Starr Computer Solutions

Dec. 8, 2021

IdeaTek announced this week that it acquired wireless internet services from Dodge City-based Starr Computer Solutions, Inc.

With a presence in 19 Kansas counties, the acquisition will enhance IdeaTek’s already robust and growing fixed wireless and fiber network while providing exciting opportunities for new and existing internet customers. 

The acquisition only includes Starr’s wireless internet services. All other services will remain with Starr. Starr Computer Solutions will continue to provide customers with the same quality products and services as they have in the past. 

“This is a great fit for Starr’s internet customers and an opportunity for them to gain even greater speeds from a Kansas company focused on next-generation internet services,” said Starr Computer Solutions Owner Alan Stukenholtz. “I’m just as excited to focus Starr’s attention on growing our other products and services, including our business phone solutions, IT services, and security and cyber security solutions.”

In the coming months, IdeaTek will begin an extensive upgrade of Starr’s wireless towers and infrastructure — which will bring faster, more reliable service to rural homes, businesses, educational facilities and enterprises. 

The acquisition adds to IdeaTek’s wireless internet expansion into Ford County earlier this month, with two new tower locations constructed on the north and south ends of Dodge City. It also furthers the company’s mission of providing internet freedom for Kansas communities, said Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek’s Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer.

“We believe all Kansans should have affordable and reliable internet access no matter where they live,” he said. “We will begin working immediately to upgrade and expand the Starr network so that customers will be able to access lightning-fast internet in 2022.”

IdeaTek’s wireless product, AirLight, delivers speeds of up to 150 Mbps. It was developed as a solution for remote areas. However, IdeaTek’s ultimate goal is to connect every home in Kansas with high-speed, affordable fiber-optic internet.

Investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth, Friesen said. “Our mission is to build to the standards of the future, not today.”

Based in Buhler, IdeaTek was founded by Friesen and four high school friends in 1999. Today, the company employs over 120 Kansans and is continuing to grow. The team is dedicated to the mission of connecting underserved communities with affordable high-speed internet. 

To date, IdeaTek has deployed more than 3,600 miles of fiber — plus built more than 100 fixed wireless towers — serving customers in over 50 Kansas communities. 

For more information about IdeaTek and its services, visit ideatek.com.

About IdeaTek Telcom

IdeaTek Telcom, LLC, is a Buhler, Kansas-based broadband service provider with the mission of “fighting for internet freedom.” IdeaTek uses a unique and innovative approach to deploy scalable long-term fiber optic infrastructures, bridging the broadband gap in rural communities. The company has already successfully built over 3,600 miles of fiber throughout Kansas. IdeaTek has long been at the forefront on broadband equity issues and is committed to enriching the communities in which they operate. They were recently named to Inc. 5000’s list of fastest-growing companies for the eighth time.