Since the world has shifted to digital, digital technologies have progressed to transform every aspect of our daily lives. Therefore, fast and reliable internet access has become fundamental to keeping up with the fast-paced world. However, in the rural and remote parts of the nation, wired internet options may not be available because of infrastructure complexities. Here, satellite internet turns out to be a very good option, but which satellite internet providers offer the best satellite internet service? Read on and delve into the world of satellite internet services, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, and everything in between.
What is Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet is a type of broadband internet connection, that uses a network of satellites orbiting the Earth to provide internet access. It works by transmitting data from a satellite dish at your location anywhere on the earth, to a satellite in space, which then relays the signal to a gateway connected to the global internet.
Satellite Internet has a relatively slower upload and download speed since the signals travel great distances from across space. They do come with relatively higher prices since the launch and maintenance of a satellite in space is a complex and expensive process.
How Does Satellite Internet Work?
Here's a step-by-step explanation:
- You send an internet request from your device to the satellite dish.
- The satellite dish transmits the signal to the satellite in space.
- The satellite relays the signal to the gateway.
- The gateway connects to the global internet.
- The process is reversed, and data is received from the internet.
Benefits of Satellite Internet
- Satellite internet services offer wide availability, making it ideal for rural and remote areas.
- It requires no infrastructure, such as cables or fiber-optic connections, and provides a reliable connection with fewer outages.
- Satellite internet also allows users to stay connected on the go as it is portable. Hence it is suitable for various applications, including emergency services, remote work, and travel, ultimately bridging the digital divide for the underserved communities worldwide.
Drawbacks of Satellite Internet
- Delayed signals experience a latency of 600-800 ms because of the distance traveled.
- Data caps limit usage, incurring extra fees for excessive consumption.
- Bad weather can cause signal disruption lowering the quality.
- Generally more expensive than traditional options, making it a less appealing choice for many users.
Types of Satellite Internet
There are three primary types of satellite Internet, each utilizing satellites at varying altitudes to provide Internet connectivity.
Geostationary satellite internet
Uses satellites orbiting at 22,000 miles above the equator.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet
It uses satellites orbiting 1,200 miles above the Earth.
Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite internet
Uses satellites orbiting at 8,000 miles above the Earth.
Satellite Internet Providers
Some of the satellite internet providers include:
HughesNet
HughesNet offers reliable satellite internet services, starting at a monthly price of $115 which is a bit pricey, whereas the speed ranges between 72Mbps and maxes out the best satellite internet at 245 Mbps. The more you pay, the more the high-speed data allowance you will receive, but your speed slows down once you reach your monthly data limit.
HughesNet also charges extra setup in addition to the monthly rental fee for their equipment, but it's up to you if you prefer to buy the modem and satellite dish outright.
Viasat
Viasat takes the lead in both speed and data. It offers unlimited data usage, allowing you to browse, stream, and download without worrying about data caps. They also frequently offer special deals and promotions, including discounted installation fees, free equipment, and introductory pricing for new customers. Viasat’s best satellite internet ranges from 72Mbps up to 245 Mbps with a data cap of up to 500GB. Viasat offers flexible prices stretching from $115 and up to $230 per month with a variable installation fee costing around $300
Starlink (SpaceX)
With a constellation network set in low-Earth orbit, Starlink is set to transform the satellite internet service as it is supposed to eventually consist of 30,000 plus satellites. Starlink aims to provide 1Gbps speed coming side by side with the fiber internet for the fastest internet connection. Starlink envisions bridging the global internet divide with its satellite network.
The fastest satellite internet service comes with the price of $120 per month with better latency than the other two providers.
Other Satellite Internet Providers like Xfinity, Verizon, EarthLink, and Cox Communication also offer amazing packages and deals.
Satellite internet is a viable option for those areas where traditional internet is scarce. While it has its drawbacks, technological advancements are improving speeds and reducing latency. When choosing a satellite internet provider, consider your data needs, budget, and the level of customer support.
Visit Cables Finder and avail the best satellite internet at affordable prices.