How to Compare Satellite Internet Services

In many rural areas, satellite Internet services are the only alternative to dial-up Internet service providers.  While the technology behind most satellite Internet service providers is similar, often the terms of use and policies the company employ can be drastically different. When choosing a provider, compare these differences to find a good fit for your needs.

• Compare installation and setup costs for the companies in your area. Most satellite Internet service providers have multiple installation plans available. These will typically include buying the equipment, which has a larger initial investment but is cheaper over the long-term or equipment leasing, which requires a smaller deposit, but adds a monthly fee to your bill. Upfront purchase of the equipment may allow for shorter terms on contracts, as well.


• Compare each company’s terms of use and fair access policies. A major difference between satellite and most other high-speed Internet services is bandwidth allocation. Most other ISPs allow unlimited bandwidth. If they do impose a limit, it is typically very large, sometimes hundreds of gigabytes. This is not the case with most satellite Internet services. However, the way each company handles bandwidth allocation can differ greatly. As an example, Wildblue, a major provider of satellite-based Internet service, has a rolling window of 30 days. Inside this window, a user is allowed a pre-determined amount of bandwidth, decided by the plan they signed up for. HughesNet, another major provider, uses a system where the rolling window is a matter of hours; however, the data allowed is much smaller. Overall, most providers allow customers a similar quantity of bandwidth, but how they allow you to use it can vary. In all cases, going over your allocated bandwidth limit will often result in slower Internet speeds and in some cases, extra fees or service disconnection.


• Compare monthly costs and plans between providers. While generally more expensive than other high-speed internet providers, the costs from provider to provider in the satellite Internet market varies from $60 to $100+ a month for service. This rate can also be modified by the terms in which you sign up for your service.


• Compare satellite locations. Most companies providing satellite Internet services do so through a proprietary network and satellite setup. Because of this, dish alignment may vary from provider to provider. This can be particularly important to potential customers living in rural areas with hilly terrain or dense tree coverage. Stable Internet connections through satellite technology need a clear line of sight between the dish on your home and the satellite.  Ensuring the needed paths are clear for your satellite reception can cut the costs of installation and greatly increase service quality.


• Research advances in satellite technology and recent news. Like most technology these days, advances are made in satellite technology constantly. With the commitments and costs required in establishing satellite Internet service, when the next big thing comes out, upgrading can be an expensive venture. You can minimize your costs, while ensuring you have the best possible service, by checking forums and websites online dedicated to satellite Internet technology, for the latest news in the field.