Vincenzo Jr
JF-Expert Member
- Sep 23, 2020
- 12,127
- 25,365
Satellite internet is wireless internet beamed down from satellites orbiting the Earth. It’s a lot different from land-based internet services like cable or DSL, which transmit data through wires running underground. Since it’s the only internet service that’s available nationwide, satellite internet is a reliable way to get online for many rural homes and businesses, although it does still come with a few disadvantages (more on that later).
HughesNet and Viasat are the two primary residential satellite internet providers in the US. Starlink (from SpaceX) has recently become available, and Project Kuiper (from Amazon) will also offer satellite internet service.
If you’re looking for a mobile solution for a boat, truck, or RV, check out our guides to the best internet for RV and best internet for boats.
The best satellite internet providers
1.starlink $90.00–$250.00/ Data 1TB speed Up to 100Mbps Installation $599.00–$2,500.00
2.viasat $69.99–$299.99/mo. Data 25–500GB/ Installation free speed up 12–100 Mbps
Satellite internet uses a five-part relay system:
Internet-ready device
Modem/router
Satellite dish
Satellite in space
Network Operations Center (NOC)
HughesNet and Viasat are the two primary residential satellite internet providers in the US. Starlink (from SpaceX) has recently become available, and Project Kuiper (from Amazon) will also offer satellite internet service.
If you’re looking for a mobile solution for a boat, truck, or RV, check out our guides to the best internet for RV and best internet for boats.
The best satellite internet providers
1.starlink $90.00–$250.00/ Data 1TB speed Up to 100Mbps Installation $599.00–$2,500.00
2.viasat $69.99–$299.99/mo. Data 25–500GB/ Installation free speed up 12–100 Mbps
Satellite internet uses a five-part relay system:
Internet-ready device
Modem/router
Satellite dish
Satellite in space
Network Operations Center (NOC)