Understanding Satellite Internet Technology

We will clarify all these questions below so that you know what this type of internet is all about.

How does Satellite Internet work?

Well, in the last few years satellite internet has made it possible for thousands of people, especially in rural or very remote areas, to have internet access. This type of internet works with the use of satellite dishes to receive and send data. Three antennas are involved in the process: one at the center of the provider, one in space and one at the user's home. It is through these antennas that the signal travels to and from a satellite in space orbit.

What are the benefits of Satellite Internet?

The benefits that this type of internet has had for people and communities in rural areas has been exceptional, as it has allowed them to access educational resources, keep in touch with family and friends, among many other things. The rural medical area has also benefited from the Internet, allowing health care providers to access medical records, consult with specialists and offer services such as telemedicine. Public safety has also benefited from the Internet.

With this type of connectivity, their emergency services can respond faster, and law enforcement can access real-time data.

Obviously, satellite internet has its advantages and disadvantages, which are good to know in case you are considering contracting this service.

Satellite Internet Pros

Availability, satellites cover practically the entire country. They do not need so much infrastructure (subway cables, poles, etc.). Another advantage is that this internet is generally faster than dial-up internet and in some cases can be faster than DSL. This makes it a very good option for those looking for a fast connection. Price, satellite internet is usually more affordable than cable or DSL internet, this makes it a very good alternative for those on a limited budget.

Satellite Internet Cons

One of its main disadvantages is latency. Satellite internet has a higher latency than cable or DSL, and this can limit its use for applications such as online gaming or video conferencing. It is worth mentioning that network latency is the delay in network communication. It is the time it takes for data to be transferred. Another disadvantage is that satellite internet is often unreliable in bad weather. Heavy rain or snow interferes with the signal, and this causes slow speeds or even loss of connection.

What companies offer Satellite Internet in the United States?

Now let's talk about the main companies that offer satellite internet and among which are: Viasat, HughesNet and Starlink.

Viasat

Viasat is a provider with more than 1.8 million customers worldwide and more than 600,000 in the United States. Among its most popular packages, which range from $40 to approximately $169 are:

HughesNet

Another excellent option is HughesNet, which is the company that practically invented satellite internet more than 25 years ago. Among its plans, which range from $49.99 to $124.99 approximately, are:

Starlink

Starlink is another leading satellite internet provider operated by SpaceX that offers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet with great coverage. With Starlink's technology, individuals, businesses, ground vehicles, maritime and at very high altitudes can have internet access. The plan offered is:

Now you know much more about satellite internet and if you are considering it, you can make a much more informed decision.