What Is Satellite Internet?

Satellite Internet is a system that uses a satellite dish to receive Internet information at the home location. It is used in those areas where conventional high-speed Internet access is not available (i.e., cable or DSL Internet). The technology is similar to that used for receiving satellite television and provides a high-speed Internet connection. In use, satellite access to the Internet is no different from other Internet-providing technologies.

History

Satellite Internet access was first attempted in 1973 with researchers linking two European computers to an American network. The technology continued to mature, and in 1996 it was offered for those users seeking Internet service who lived in remote and rural areas. DirectPC, later to become HughesNet, would be the company to set the precedent for today's satellite services.

Considerations

A clear view of the southern sky is a necessity in order to use satellite Internet. This is because there must be a clear path for signals between you and the satellites, which are above the earth's equator.

Heavy rain and heavy snow can inhibit or stop the transmissions to or from the satellite. As a result, there could be times in which Internet access is sluggish or non-existent.

Features

The upload speed (sending data to the satellite) for satellite Internet is much slower than that of conventional Internet connections---typically as low as 50 kbps compared to the standard of 500 kbps. Satellite download speed is much faster, approaching that of broadband.

Setup

Setting up a satellite Internet connection requires a 2- to 3-foot dish placed so that it can "see" a satellite that is in orbit. This satellite is run by the provider of the Internet service. There is an uplink and downlink modem attached to the dish with coaxial cables---the uplink sending data from the person working the computer connected to the Internet, and the downlink receiving data to the computer from the satellite.

Misconceptions

There is a misconception that satellite Internet uses a phone line to send the data to a ground station which then relays it to the satellite. In fact, all transmissions to and from the satellite go directly through the satellite dish.

Expert Insight

Satellite Internet access is more costly than conventional Internet connections. It's important to understand the charges by the provider before signing on for this service.

Warning

Not all areas are accessible to satellite Internet service. There are many physical characteristics of the location that must be taken into consideration. Deciding upon use of satellite Internet will require having a trained professional scout the location to see if it is actually possible. Additionally, the physical setup should only be done by a trained professional.

References

• satellite Internet connection
• High Speed Internet

Resources

• WILDBLUE High-speed Internet
• HughesBet