Satellite broadband is generally available nationwide and contains access speeds of up to 5.0Mbps (megabytes per second). Most providers guarantee instant Internet access through a two-way satellite service and offer telephone support around the clock.



To obtain a satellite broadband connection, you will need to place an order with a high speed satellite provider such as HughesNet. Upon placing your order, you can schedule installation service with your chosen provider who will perform a site survey to determine the best position for your satellite dish. The signal is provided from the south direction so you will need to have the satellite dish positioned with a clear view of the south.

The installation will involve mounting and pointing the dish as well as performing tests to determine whether or not there are other electronic entities that are interfering with the satellite signal.

Once the satellite dish is properly placed the process of obtaining a broadband connection is fairly straightforward and simple. Your installer will use two cable wires that will connect from the satellite dish to a dedicated wall jack in your house. Once this is accomplished, you simply test the strength of the signal and then proceed to configure your computer to the connection.

In general, the hardware for mounting and connecting the satellite dish is included as well as the cables, wall jack installation, and modem configuration. Other added fees could possibly include driving distance to the job location, additional computer work, or removal of the old satellite dish.

Be sure to choose a provider that offers a two-way connection otherwise the speed of your broadband connection will be significantly slower. With a two-way connection, the information is downloaded and uploaded through the same satellite connection. A one-way connection will download through the satellite and then upload through your telephone line, which slows up the data transfer process considerably.

Most satellite broadband providers will offer several different service plans and additional charges may apply, depending on what needs to be accomplished to make the installation successful.

As a general rule, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) does not allow you to do your own installation, due to the fact that FCC federal regulations are strict with regard to the way the satellite dish is pointed and how the antenna is positioned.

If you live in a rural area, a satellite broadband connection could be your ticket to high speed Internet access with a service that is very comparable to a DSL or cable connection. DSL and cable providers often overlook rural areas or the cost of running the lines makes the project prohibitive. With new satellite broadband service, dial-up is no longer the only option for rural residents.