Dozens of community broadband networks and hundreds of businesses are busy looking for new broadband providers today following the shock announcement that Aramiska is pulling the plug on its satellite service - effective, today.

The exact scale of the problem is not yet known but wireless ISPs, community broadband networks and businesses in remote areas not served by DSL or cable that relied on Aramiska, are frantically looking for alternative broadband suppliers.

The suddenness of the announcement has only served to make matters worse, with concerns that some people could be without broadband for weeks or even months.

Community Broadband Network (CBN), which offers help and advice regarding alternative broadband services, has already begun gathering and co-ordinating information on those affected as well as talking to other suppliers to see what help can be provided to Aramiska customers.

CBN's Lindsey Annison told The Register that Aramiska's decision to shut he service was "very disappointing" but she stressed there are alternative suppliers that should be able to step in and help. However, she admitted Aramiska's decision not to give any warning meant many wireless networks would be left in the dark over the weekend and beyond.

Holland-based Aramiska launched its two-way broadband satellite service in the UK early in 2002. ®