What Is Satellite Internet Access?

Satellite internet access is one method of accessing the internet in areas where ground-based connections (cable, DSL, etc.) are not available, such as rural communities, at sea, or while traveling. Most satellite internet access is at a high speed.

Satellite internet access is provided by geostationary satellites (allowing access virtually across the globe) and occasionally by satellites in low earth orbit. For the latter, coverage is extended into the highest latitudes, including the polar regions, but the connection speed is not as high as that for the geostationary satellite access.

Equipment

For the user, depending on the application, they will need some sort of receiver or satellite dish that will allow them to connect with the satellite. The stationary consumer usually chooses to purchase or lease a small satellite dish, which is aligned to the satellite. Sometimes the consumer can do the alignment but usually the ISP sends an installation specialist. The satellite dish is then connected to a satellite modem through a coaxial cable. From the modem, the consumer connects their computer directly to the modem or installs a wireless hub.

Also available are portable satellite modems, which are frequently small rectangular boxes that need to be loosely aligned with the satellite; most of these satellite modems assist the consumer with the alignment process through contained signal strength meters. These portable satellite modems are expensive and they have limited connection speeds.

Challenges

Although satellite internet access is available across the world, it tends to offer a lower bandwidth and slower connection to the internet. In addition, there is a lag, or delay, between data transmitted two and from the satellite and the receiver. Because of this latency in the connection, some internet-based applications, such as live streaming video or live gaming, may not work properly and the consumer may experience hiccoughs in their viewing or game play.

Another challenge with satellite internet access is something called rain fade. Satellite connections are sensitive to moisture (including snow and rain), as the signal is degraded by the atmospheric interference. One means of overcoming such interference is to install a larger satellite dish, which reduces the amount of bandwidth that is lost during periods of precipitation.

Satellite Internet Access Providers

In the United States there are two primary satellite internet access providers: HughesNet Satellite Internet and WildBlue Satellite Internet Service. Both companies offer different service and connection packages, so the consumer is able to choose a high speed internet connection that works for their individual needs.