Alternatives to Satellite Internet Out in the Country
Increased prices or an inconsistent signal during inclement weather are both significant reasons why you may want an alternative to your satellite Internet connection. Unfortunately, if you live out in a rural area, your choice of alternatives to satellite are limited. Also, depending on the options available, you may experience a slower speed than what may be available to you through satellite. Fortunately, based on the current telephone service you're using, you may be able to obtain Internet through them.
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Dial-up
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Unfortunately, of all the alternatives for satellite Internet, dial-up will be the slowest connection at the cheapest price. Dial-up can start at as little as $10 per month as of March 2011. Unfortunately, when using dial-up, you cannot surf the Internet and talk on your telephone the same time. Also, if you're only using your cellular phone as your sole means of communication, you will need to pay the added expense of paying for landline phone service plus the dial-up service. Check with your local landline phone provider to see if dial-up options are available. Otherwise, you will need to first find a landline service provider, and then locate a dial-up provider.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
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DSL costs more than dial-up, but the speeds are significantly faster. DSL accesses the copper wiring for your telephone line, which allows you to surf the Internet at speeds at 3 megabit per second (Mbps) and above. You can talk on the telephone and surf the Internet. As of March 2011, prices can start at as little as $14.95 per month. Your local landline provider may have DSL options where you can have DSL without having to have a landline phone service installed. Unfortunately, if the landline provider's central office is too far from your home, you may not be able to receive the fastest speed available for your home. The central office is responsible for getting the DSL signal/Internet connection to your home.
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Cellular Internet
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If you're currently using cellular phone service, you may be able to access the Internet through a data plan. Cellular providers like Verizon and AT&T offer USB data cards that can be connected to your computer, which allow you to access the Internet. Your Internet signal is only as strong as the coverage in your area, so you may not be able to maximize the speed available. Providers like Clear offers 4G Internet connections if you do not have a cellular phone plan. Cable providers like Time Warner are also providing Internet connectivity through a wireless device that can travel with you wherever you go. Cellular Internet usually has a cap on the amount of data you can use per month, which can cause a pricey plan for your household. Cellular routers can be purchased for your cellular phone device which will allow a wireless signal throughout the house for other connecting computers.
Advantages and Disadvantages
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Satellite usually costs more money than cable and DSL service, and their speeds may also be slower than DSL and cable Internet as well. DSL may be your best option since it's competitively priced and you can experience either faster or the same speed as your satellite connection. Cellular Internet is only beneficial if you have a cellular phone provider that has good coverage in your rural location. Find providers that do not have a limit on how much Internet surfing you can use each month to avoid hefty prices. Virtually all your satellite alternatives offer one clear advantage over satellite, in that inclement weather will not interfere with your Internet signal.
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References
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