What is satellite internet?
If you live and work in the middle of nowhere and beyond, then you’ll be limited when it comes to internet connection options. The good news is that at least one of the options that will be available to you will be able to provide you with a fast and reliable online experience. We’re talking “satellite technology”. Satellite technology is innovation at its best. It allows individuals situated in the most remote areas to seamlessly access the internet. Let’s find out more.
In This Guide:
- How does satellite internet work?
- What does VSAT stand for?
- Benefits of satellite internet
- Is satellite internet right for me?
How does satellite internet work?
Satellite internet is a wireless internet connection that relies on the cooperation of three satellite dishes to function. The first dish is placed at the internet service provider’s hub, the second one is situated in space, and the last one needs to be installed at a place of residence and looks more like a modem with an antenna than a dish.
Data is then sent and received as follows:
Your device sends a signal request via your modem to your satellite dish. This signal is then redirected up to the orbiting satellite. The orbiting satellite then sends this signal to your ISP (internet service provider). Then, your ISP transmits the signal back to the satellite, then to your dish, your modem, and finally, your device.
This process may seem complex, but the data transmissions are instantaneous, allowing for a smooth and speedy internet connection.
What does VSAT stand for?
When researching satellite internet deals, you may come across the acronym “VSAT”. VSAT stands for Very Small Aperture Terminal and refers to a satellite communications system that has been specifically engineered to service home and business users. The system’s connection is established via the use of an antenna which will be connected to a modem (this is the modem that will be installed at your home or office).
Benefits of satellite internet
While satellite internet may not be a match for faster broadband connections, it still has its advantages. For example:
- The installation and set up is quick and easy. Because there are no cables or phone lines required, all you need to do is connect your modem to your computer/device and activate your account with your provider.
- You’ll be able to enjoy instant connectivity. With a wireless satellite connection, you won’t have to wait for dial-up connectivity.
- The coverage is global. No matter how remote your location is, you’ll have a high-speed connection at your fingertips.
- It’s vastly accommodating. You’ll be able to connect multiple computers and devices through one single internet hub.
- It can handle high bandwidth usage. This means that your connectivity speed and quality shouldn’t be affected by many simultaneous users or “peak use times”.
To be fair, we suggest you weigh the benefits of satellite internet with its disadvantages before signing any agreements. To summarise, the cons of a VSAT connection are:
- Bad weather can cause an unstable connection
- It’s slower than cable and fibre
- It won’t support a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
- It can be expensive
Is satellite internet right for me?
If you live in an area where you have access to fibre broadband, then satellite internet may not be your best option. However, if you live in a remote location where cabled internet isn’t available, then satellite internet is a better and faster alternative to a dial-up connection.
Satellite internet is also cheaper than most fibre plans offered by internet service providers. So, if you’d like a stable internet connection that still provides adequate speeds and a seamless online experience, then it remains a viable option.