Firstly, it isn’t as fast as wired internet. While satellite internet does offer many advantages, it has a whole lot of downsides. Satellite Internet Weaknesses: Slow Speeds, Restrictive Data Caps, and Rigid Pricing This means that you often get more than you paid for.įinally, it is worth considering that even if you have the option of wired internet, while satellite internet may be a less reliable choice day to day, it can be more resilient and quicker to recover during natural disasters. Indeed, the FCC reports that 90% of providers deliver up to 140% of the speeds they promise, even at peak hours. Some providers already offer 25Mbps, with further large increases coming in the next couple of years. Speeds have also improved greatly in recent years. For all its faults, satellite internet meets you where you are. If you need a connection, and you almost certainly do, then satellite internet knocks the socks off dial-up and mobile hotspots. The strongest selling point for satellite internet is that it works everywhere. Satellite Internet’s Greatest Strength: Wide Availability Similarly, if you need to send and receive large amounts of data on a regular basis, satellite internet is probably not for you. If you live in a major city or town, and can find a good cable provider in your area, that option will likely be in your favor. There are a number of pros and cons to consider (as these include a few technical terms, you can check out our glossary of relevant jargon at the bottom of this article). For all its shortcomings, it can get you online no matter where you are.įortunately, satellite internet has improved exponentially since its debut more than twenty years ago. This is where satellite internet comes in. From job searches to staying in touch with family, from booking a holiday to learning new skills, to finding love to finding customers, the internet is essential for participation in the modern world. These days, internet access isn’t an optional extra. However, residents in small towns and rural areas have just as much need for a reliable connection. If you live in a major city, you likely enjoy reliable high-speed internet that is delivered to your house through a wired connection. The biggest downside is, well, it’s slow, it’s expensive, it suffers from latency issues, and providers often expect you to sign a contract that lasts seemingly until the end of time. This is the main reason that it continues to be a popular option in rural areas, where wired internet options such as cable and DSL are less common. The best thing about satellite internet is that it is available virtually everywhere in the US.

Using satellite dish for wifi