Among the many ways of receiving Internet (cable, fibre, LTE, radio, etc.), satellite Internet is rather unpopular. Surely it cannot be a part of a fibre broadband deal where you have unlimited downloads and enjoy speed up to 1000mb/s. However, it has certain advantages that make it almost irreplaceable for certain applications. Let’s explain the principle of satellite Internet and gauge the opinion of current users of this solution. Finally, we will briefly explain what Starlink, coming directly from a tech billionaire visionary Elon Musk, is.
People often think that satellite Internet is a very complicated and expensive technology. But suffice it to say that satellite Internet is very similar to satellite TV. Knowing this, it doesn’t seem so difficult to understand the concept, does it? There is one big difference between satellite Internet and satellite TV: you need to be able to receive and transmit the signal. Special antennas are used to ensure the two-way transmission of data.
User opinions about satellite internet are mixed. Some users report lower parameters than terrestrial Internet, like fibre broadband (upload and download speed, latency). On the other hand, some opinions on satellite Internet are clearly positive. The recipients claim that it is simply impossible to establish another Internet connection in a given location.
Satellite Internet works in the same way as satellite TV. It is particularly useful in places where there is no other way to access the network (either mobile or traditional copper or fibre optic infrastructure).
It is important to recognise that it is not perfect. However, if the disadvantages of satellite internet are outweighed by a number of advantages, it is an option worth considering.
What does it take to use satellite internet?
How can you show how satellite internet works? Imagine a Wi-Fi network with a router in orbit and a range that extends to your ground receiver. The only difference between satellite internet and terrestrial internet is that you have to connect your router or modem to an external antenna rather than a socket installed by the traditional provider.
Installing Satellite Internet
To install satellite internet, you need to place a small satellite dish outside the building. This is simple, but most companies offer a full installation service to get Internet. Once the satellite dish is installed, connect it to the satellite modem with a cable. This brings the Internet to your computer and other devices via cable (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).
What is the speed of satellite internet?
Transmitting data in a vacuum (in space) is much faster than using fibre-optic cables, one of the fastest ways to connect to Earth. However, it must be remembered that the great distance over which the data is transmitted is a problem.
The speed of Internet via satellite depends on the location of the receiver and the service chosen. In general, this means network access at speeds of between a dozen and a few dozen megabits per second.
In the case of Starlink satellite internet, the speed is slightly different. Elon Musk’s next-generation service allows internet access speeds of up to 499 Mbps. However, this comes at a huge cost.
How much does satellite internet cost?
Much more than Atlantek Computers fibre broadband deals that are currently available. Here you can find unlimited downloads and uploads, up to 1000Mb/s super fast speed as well as quick and painless installation procedure that is performed by technicans with years of experience.
Starlink Internet
In 2019, some rather unusual objects have appeared in the sky. They move in chains and are sometimes even visible from Earth. Fast-moving objects that shine day and night and are only visible for a short time are also a marketing success. Starlink, like the telecommunications system developed by SpaceX. Elon Musk’s company has redefined the way the Internet is delivered directly from space.
Starlink Internet
Knowing that Internet sent from a satellite has to travel a huge distance (up to 20,000 kilometres), SpaceX decided to solve this problem in a simple way. Starlink satellites operate in a relatively low orbit: between 399 and 569 kilometres above the Earth’s surface. Lowering the ceiling, however, meant increasing the number of satellites.