Most people use fiber optic cables or their phone lines to connect to the internet. Although, recently, many households are converting over to a new alternative, i.e., satellite internet.
Being a user myself, I’m quite satisfied with my Spectrum internet deals. Mainly because I have invested in super compatible equipment. If you are thinking of getting a satellite Internet connection, go through all the pros and cons first. That will help you make an informed decision.
What is Satellite Internet?
It is a wireless connection which requires three satellite dishes. One is placed at the internet service provider’s hub. The second one is at your place, while the third one is out in the space. That being done, you also require the basic internet setup, which includes a modem, and wires connecting your modem to the satellite dish at your place.
How does Satellite Internet Work?
A land-based internet connection emits the signal which is received by the space dish. That signal is transferred back to the satellite dish placed in the personal property, where it is transmitted by the modem attached to it.
Pros of Using Satellite Internet
Like every other internet connection, satellite internet has its share of pros and cons. Let’s have a look at the pros to understand this better.
High-Speed Internet
When it comes to connections, a satellite-based connection can connect up to 35 times faster as compared to a dial-up connection. With such high speed, you can do anything from checking emails to streaming live videos. If your internet package allows, nothing can interrupt your internet speed.
Easy Availability
The best thing about the satellite internet is that it is not limited to big cities or towns. You can have it installed anywhere and everywhere. Even if you are living in the farthest corner of the world, this internet connection option is going to work for you. You just need your computer to be connected to electricity, and you are good to go!
Better Disaster Management: Faster Restoration
Have you ever had to face disconnected internet after a storm or heavy rain? The storm can bring down one pole in your vicinity, and you can stay disconnected for days, even for weeks, in worst-case scenarios. You cannot face this type of inconvenience if you are using a satellite connection. If your satellite dish stayed intact during a storm, your services are restored right after it is over.
No Data Usage Limitations
We all face issues like data usage limitations. It becomes a nuisance when it disrupts your work speed. You don’t have to worry about that if you have a satellite-based internet connection. There are bandwidth limitations, but the majority of providers do not disconnect you from the internet even after you reach your data usage limit. Although, you will get a slower internet speed, but at least you will be able to send the important email on time.
Cons of Using Satellite
Like with every good thing, there are few cons of using the satellite internet too. If you are thinking about getting a satellite internet connection, read these to make a better decision.
Limited Bandwidth
As I have discussed earlier, satellite internet has bandwidth limitations. There is a fixed speed you can get each month. As a result, the more bandwidth you need, the higher the price you have to pay. Usually, there are 4 available packages. You can get from 10 GB to 50 GB, depending on the size of your package. Also, your internet speed will be faster if you stay within your package bandwidth limit. So you are prone to ending up your package earlier if you watch YouTube videos or stream movies online.
Comparatively Expensive
Keeping in mind that you get the internet signals from space, satellite internet is expensive. You cannot go lesser than $50 or above per month. A standard DSL or cable connection costs you around $30 to $40 per month. Add up to around $100 if you increase your bandwidth too, while bandwidth is unlimited in cable and DSL connections.
VPN Compatibility not Available
If your work requires you to set up virtual private networks (VPNs), you cannot do it while using a satellite internet connection. You need a high bandwidth internet connection which has low latency too, which is not possible with a satellite connection, as it has low bandwidth and high latency.
Bad Weather, Weaker Connection
Although it can stand intact during storms, a satellite connection can give you a hard time on a cloudy day. It is also affected during rain and thunder. Even a lighter storm can weaken the strength of your internet signals.
Conclusion
A satellite internet connection can be your only option if DSL and cable connection services are not provided in your area.
Cable and DSL connections are better options if you live in a big city. You can also avail the facilities like customer care service. For example, I called the Spectrum customer service number yesterday to avail the Spectrum internet repair service after my internet was disconnected due to heavy rain. It didn’t take long before it was running fine again.
