TECHNOLOGY

Satellite Internet – To Choose or Not To Choose

There is no doubt about the fact that today’s life is highly dependent on the availability of the internet. Rarely a second passes by in our lives when we are off the grid. We are connected at home, in offices, at clubs, in malls, and almost every other place imaginable. But what do you do when you are constantly on the move?

You have the option of paying for expensive data plans and breaking your bank or you could opt for a satellite internet service. Unlike many other types of broadband internet connections, a satellite internet connection provides you with the luxury of being connected to the internet irrespective of your physical location. However, there are some things that  you need to consider before you get a satellite internet connection. Let’s do a quick pros and cons analysis and see whether it is a suitable choice for you: 

What is Satellite Internet?

Mainstream internet connections that you are used to rely on coaxial cables, optic fibers, Wi-Fi routers, and/or a nearby transmitting tower to help you connect to the internet. A satellite internet, on the other hand, does not need stationary infrastructure for you to be able to connect to the web.

A satellite internet connection enables you to utilize your services via orbiting satellites in space. The signal is generated from your internet service provider directly towards the satellites in space which then travels to the receiving antenna in your home. The antenna may be installed on the roof of your home, on your car or even inside a mobile device.

Pros

A satellite internet service offers a number of exemplary benefits that may not be enjoyed with other forms of internet connections. Few of them include:

Coverage

Coverage is the most prominent feature of a satellite internet connection. It does not matter whether you are in a crowded urban city or alone in the wilderness, you will still be able to connect to a satellite internet service.

High-Speed Connection

Even without the presence of heavy infrastructure, a satellite internet still allows you to enjoy decent download and upload speeds up to 100 Mbps, depending on the service provider you are subscribed to.

No Infrastructure Needed

Since you are connected to a satellite in space directly, there is no need for wires, cables, or towers to be installed near you. A satellite internet connection is free from all of them.

Cons

Now that we have discussed the benefits of satellite internet, let us also inform you about some of the drawbacks associated with it. The most prominent of them include:

High Latency

Latency is the amount of time for data to be transmitted from its source to its destination. Since the data in this connection literally travels to space and back, you experience higher latencies, something which is not appreciated by hardcore gamers or live streamers.

Limited Data Caps

Unlike other popular forms of internet connections, satellite internet bounds you to a limited data cap. You will not be able to enjoy limitless browsing, streaming, downloading, or gaming.

Relatively Expensive

Even though there is no expense on cable and wire installations, a satellite internet service is more expensive than DSL or Fiber internet. Even the most basic internet package can cost you more than $40 a month, and that is also with limited data.

Performance Affected by Harsh Weather Conditions

Weather creates a huge hindrance in satellite internet signals. During extreme weather conditions, signal can drop drastically or may even be completely lost.

Incompatible with VPNs

If you are used to connecting to the web via VPNs, then this service is not for you. A VPN service requires low latencies, something which satellite internet does not offer at all.

Who Should Go For It?

A satellite internet connection is a great option for you if you fall under these two categories. One, if you reside in a rural location where there aren’t many reliable options to choose from. And two, if harsh weather conditions are not a common occurrence in your area. If you think that both conditions apply to you, then it may be time to get a satellite internet connection.

Satellite Internet Providers

Now that we have told you about all the pros and cons of a satellite internet connection, it won’t be fair to you if we do not provide you with the best satellite internet providers as well.

HughesNet

HughesNet Internet is one of the best satellite internet providers in the United States. With download speeds up to 25 Mbps and nationwide availability, it allows you to enjoy reliable and smooth internet in every corner of the country.

Viasat

Next, you have the option of Viasat. Viasat offers download speeds up to 100 Mbps with flawless connectivity and nationwide availability. However, all of this comes at a pretty heavy cost.

All Things Considered

Even though satellite internet has its ups and downs, one cannot ignore its potential, especially if you reside in a rural or a far flung area. With this thought, we will let you decide if satellite internet is worth investing in.