How Satellite Broadband Works
Satellite broadband works the way the name implies; your computer is connected to the Internet by satellite, which transmits data from the computer to the Internet service provider and back.
This kind of broadband service is very useful in remote rural areas where other options aren’t available. DSL connections can be hard to get in some areas of the Dakotas, Montana, parts of Texas, and other states with great distances between providers and home in the country. Satellite broadband is possible where these connections are not.
Satellite broadband requires an antenna and a satellite modem to communicate with the satellite. Like DSL and cable Internet options, this service is designed for a home or apartment; you can’t travel with satellite broadband equipment. Some plans offer extras, such as free wireless broadband routers, as incentives for you to subscribe. (A wireless router is helpful because it lets you share a single connection with any wireless-capable laptop or desktop computer in your home.)
The usual equipment rental fees outside your subscription plan may apply unless your Internet provider offers a way for you to purchase the equipment outright. You may also qualify for reduced rates by signing up for extended subscription plans or special incentive packages. Always ask the satellite broadband company representative what special offers are current. You may find a much better deal than advertised just by asking.
Satellite broadband service is different than other broadband plans for one important reason; you need a clear view of the southern sky for the satellite connection to work properly. The antenna points to the south to aim the outgoing signal at the orbiting satellite and receive the incoming signal. Because the antenna needs a clear view, there are a few things that can cause interference with your Internet connection. Heavy rains or snow can weaken your signal, and you may experience reception problems if high winds blow your antenna back and forth. Be prepared for poor reception in any kind of bad weather. Cloud cover may also be a problem depending on how thick the clouds become.
Satellite broadband users can experience issues with latency, the lag between the time you perform an action online and the time it actually happens on the Internet. Online gamers and voice-over-Internet phone users will find their programs responding a bit slower when latency occurs, which may be frustrating. Business users and regular web browser find the lag more tolerable. Latency happens because of the time it takes the Internet signal to get to and from the satellite to your computer. Since satellite broadband is most popular in areas where other services are not available, latency is an issue most will simply endure out of necessity.
When subscribing to satellite broadband service, be sure to ask the service provider if there are limits for bandwidth or downloads. Some companies have plans which allow a specific amount of data downloading per month or subscription term. Once that limit is exceeded, a charge may apply to your downloads. Know the exact terms of your service agreement before signing and you can avoid surprises on your satellite broadband bill later on.
