Internet outage affects thousands as student return to virtual learning

Cogeco is dealing with a large internet outage affecting thousands across the province.

Users in Hamilton first began reporting issues around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Around that same time Cogeco confirmed the outage with a tweet, saying technicians were working on getting service restored.

Dear customers,
Please, note that we are investigating an issue impacting our Internet services. Our technicians are working to resolve this situation as soon as possible.
We apologize for the inconveniences it may cause.

– Tristan

— Cogeco Connexion (@cogeco) January 5, 2021

Around 1 p.m. Cogeco confirmed the outage continued.

“We have taken steps to mitigate the issue & improve quality of service although not fully resolved. You may still have intermittent internet connection or no service at this time,” they said on Twitter.

It was resolved around 3 p.m.

This outage comes as students across the province returned to virtual learning.

We’re hearing there is an internet outage in parts of Niagara for @cogeco customers. Not much we can do when big servers go down. It doesn’t seem to be everywhere, but we’re hearing from lots of frustrated folks. Sorry, this is beyond our control. pic.twitter.com/otQiuYXUro

— Niagara Catholic DSB (@niagaracatholic) January 5, 2021

We have received reports of an Internet outage affecting Cogeco & possibly other internet providers. This outage may affect teachers, students & families from connecting to remote learning today. These events are outside our control but we will post updates as they are available.

— HWCDSB (@HWCDSB) January 5, 2021

#HDSB students and staff: Cogeco is reporting an issue impacting Internet services. This may affect access to remote and virtual learning. Thank you for your patience while Cogeco resolves this issue. https://t.co/p68R3Wo1ho

— HDSB (@HaltonDSB) January 5, 2021

Because of the provincial lockdown, many people are working remotely.