Satellite Internet Explained

Answer 1

Satellite internet access is provided via a geostationary satellite at broadband speeds or a Low Earth Orbit satellite at slower speeds. While many people worldwide have access to satellite Internet in addition to more common options such as DSL and cable, it is the only option available for people in areas where traditional land-based Internet is not available, such as when on a ship or in a remote area.

There are two main types of satellite Internet access: two-way and one-way. Two-way access uses a satellite for both outgoing (upload) and incoming (download) transmissions while one-way access uses a satellite for incoming transmissions only. In the case of one-way access, outgoing transmissions are sent via a traditional telephone line. The average download speed of satellite Internet is 1 Mbps while upload speed varies between 56 Kbps with one-way access and 256 Kbps with two-way access.

In the United States, there are four major providers of satellite Internet access: HughsNet, SkyWay, StarBand, and WildBlue. Satellite Internet access purchased through a satellite television provider is through one of these access providers.

In a typical scenario, which illustrates two-way access, a satellite dish is installed at the consumer’s home or business that both receives incoming transmissions and sends outgoing transmissions. In both cases, the transmissions are processed by a satellite modem connected to a computer. The outgoing signal from the consumer’s satellite is sent to a satellite in space and from there to the Internet service provider. In response, the service provider retrieves the requested data from the Internet and sends it back to the satellite in space which then sends it back to the consumer.

With one-way access, the outgoing transmission travels through a telephone line to the service provider. The incoming transmission process does not change.

The main advantage of satellite Internet is that it is available anywhere on Earth. However, the disadvantages outweigh this. The main disadvantage is its low speed when compared to DSL or cable. Due to the large distance between the satellite and Earth, there is often a long delay between the moment the signal is broadcast and the moment it reaches its destination. Other disadvantages include interruptions due to inclement weather, the necessity of having a clear line of sight between the consumer’s satellite and the satellite in space, and the high cost.