What is Satellite Internet? : Pros & Cons

Satellite Internet is a relatively new technology that has been gaining in popularity over the last few years.

It’s an internet service provider that offers high-speed data transmission via satellite instead of traditional phone lines, cable TV, or DSL.

Satellite internet services are available to anyone in the world who can afford them and have access to a clear sky view to install their dish antenna.

The pros and cons of satellite internet will be discussed here!

What is Satellite Internet?

Satellite internet is a form of broadband Internet that uses satellites for transmission. It’s used by consumers and businesses in rural or remote areas where other types of high-speed connections are unavailable, not cost-effective to deploy, or would be too slow to meet users’ needs.

Internet satellite service is usually delivered to small, stationary antennas that communicate with satellites orbiting the earth. Customers typically need a rooftop antenna and may also require a satellite dish.

The antenna downloads and uploads data to the satellite, which then beams it back down to Earth’s surface via an Internet gateway station in the geographic area.

Satellite internet service is typically more expensive than other broadband options. It can be slower, but it’s often a good option for rural or remote areas that can’t access other types of high-speed Internet.

Satellite internet is a good option for rural areas. It’s also more reliable in bad weather conditions like storms or snow, and it doesn’t require an electricity source, making it ideal for locations that can be difficult to reach.

Also read: How to Decide What Internet Speed You Need?

Additionally, because it requires less data transfer, you’ll use less of your monthly data allowance with satellite internet service.

Pros of Satellite Internet

1. Global Coverage

Satellite internet service is available anywhere that has access to a clear sky view. This includes rural areas, remote locations, and other places that can’t access other types of high-speed service.

One of the pros is that it’s available to anyone in the world. Also, unlike cable or DSL, satellite internet service doesn’t require a physical address for installation.

In addition, because the signal doesn’t travel through a traditional phone line or cable TV service, it’s generally more reliable. But, again, this is because it doesn’t rely on the availability of those types of services.

2. Speed

Signal speeds for satellite internet service are generally slower than other types of high-speed Internet, but the tradeoff is that it’s available in remote areas without other options. For example, in areas without DSL or cable TV, satellite internet can be faster than dial-up and is often more reliable.

3. Cost-Effective

One of the biggest pros is that satellite internet service can save you money. If you are in a less populated area and no fiber or cable TV is available, then satellite internet can be much less expensive because it doesn’t rely on the required infrastructure for fiber or cable.

4. Instant Installation and Deployment

Installation and deployment of satellite internet service are usually instantaneous. This includes the installation of a tripod mount, a Wi-Fi router, and a power supply.

There’s no need for expensive construction or to wait weeks, months, or years for service upgrades. Satellite internet providers themselves typically do the installation, or you can do it yourself.

5. Reliability

As long as the equipment is being used correctly, satellite internet is generally more reliable. This is because the signal relies on the availability of satellites and doesn’t rely on physical infrastructures like traditional phone lines or cable TV services.

Cons of Satellite Internet

1. Latency

One of the cons is that signal latency can be a problem with satellite internet service. In addition, the speed and quality of connection vary depending on where you are, how many people are using the service, and whether you’re indoors or outdoors.

Satellite internet is also less reliable when there’s a natural disaster. For example, if a storm is blocking the signal for your particular area, it can be difficult to use satellite internet service during that time.

2. Data Caps

Another con is that satellite internet service generally has data caps. This means you’ll use more of your monthly data allowance than with other types of broadband service. In addition, you might face issues with ISP throttling.

3. Weather

Another con is that satellite internet service might be unreliable during bad weather conditions. For example, if there’s a storm or snow in the area, it can be difficult to use satellite internet service.

This is because the signal relies on satellites, and if there’s a lot of cloud cover or a lot of snow, it might not be possible to send and receive a signal.

4. Relatively Expensive

One of the cons is that satellite internet service can be more expensive than other types of high-speed Internet. For example, cable or DSL might be cheaper than satellite internet.

5. Obstructions

Lastly, one of the cons is that obstructions can be a problem. For example, trees or mountains might get in the way and block your signal.

Who is Satellite Internet Good For?

Satellite internet is perfect for people who live in remote areas without other options. For example, if you’re in an area that doesn’t have cable TV or DSL, satellite internet might be the only option available to you. It’s also good for businesses and individuals with lots of property because it requires less infrastructure than traditional broadband services like fiber or cable.

Also read: 6 Best Internet Service Providers in the USA

Final Words

Satellite internet is one of the most reliable forms of broadband available like Starlink, and it has a lot to offer. But for satellite Internet to work best, you need an uninterrupted view of the sky. If your property doesn’t have that kind of access, or if you live in a densely populated area where trees block out too much sunlight, then this might not be the right option for you.