Satellite Internet – what is it, when would you need it?

Finding Rural Internet
Some people live in rural areas where cable and DSL Internet connections are not an option. What are the options for rural Internet access?

In rural areas, homeowners can choose to use dial-up Internet service in areas where phone service is available — or the faster satellite Internet service, which is available virtually anywhere.

What is Satellite Internet?
Satellite Internet uses a satellite dish for Internet access. In the U.S., satellite dishes need to be positioned so that they have a clear line to the south in order to establish the best reception since satellites orbiting the Earth’s equator transmit the signals (and the U.S. is north of the equator).

According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), satellite Internet typically has a download speed of 1 Mbps and an upload speed of about 200 kbps, depending on the provider, the service package, and the weather. This Internet speed is slower than speeds obtained with most DSL and cable modems, but it is much faster than dial-up speeds.

Is Satellite Internet Reliable?
Just like satellite TV, satellite Internet can experience connectivity issues during bad weather, including rain, snow and fog. Satellite Internet users may also experience slower speeds during peak hours. For more information on Satellite TV and why you might choose it for rural Internet access, read this article on How Stuff Works.