The Best Satellite Providers For Remote Work

If there was ever a silver lining to the fact that we lived through the “unprecedented times” of the pandemic, it’s the fact that working from home has become acceptable and normalized. It is projected that by the end of 2022, a quarter of all jobs in North America will be remote. What is more, almost 100% of the workers who are currently working remotely would like to continue doing so. 

The future is looking bright - and comfortable! - but remote work also means heavily relying on your internet connection, and the reality of internet access in America is less rosy. Internet access is far from equal across socioeconomic classes and geographic locations, especially when it comes to rural areas. Rural America relies on satellite internet for all its online needs with much fewer options and limited speed. But what are the best satellite providers for remote work, and what do they have to offer the average consumer?

What is Satellite Internet?

To understand your needs, let’s talk about satellite internet in general. What is it? Satellite internet, like Wi-Fi, is wireless. There are no cables necessary, no fiber - just satellites beaming the internet down to Earth. It sounds like a sci-fi movie, but it’s just standard internet technology. 

This internet service is available all across the U.S., with satellite internet being a surefire way of getting internet access for private and commercial customers in rural areas or areas that are otherwise remote and don’t benefit from other types of internet access. There are a handful of providers that ensure satellite internet access.

How Does Satellite Internet Work?

Without a doubt, satellite internet sounds cool, but how does it work? How do they transmit your internet from outer space? There is a relay system with 5 essential parts:

• Internet device
• Modem
• Satellite dish
• Space satellite
• Network operations center (NOC)

Let’s start with the beginning - communication with the satellites is ensured via radio waves. The process begins with your internet device - the data is sent from your computer to your modem and satellite dish and then in outer space to the satellite. Then it makes its way back to Earth to the network operation centers (NOC). Finally, the data goes back through the same network - to space and your satellite dish to send the data to your internet device. 

And all this process takes but a fraction of a second. Think about how “instant” regular online operations are nowadays, like clicking on a link and instantly opening a page. For that to happen, the information had to make this journey twice from your device to the satellite and back to you.

Internet device

The first thing you need to get satellite internet is an internet-ready device. What that means is that the device in question can access the internet. That can be your laptop, PC, phone, tablet, or even devices like a gaming console or a smart TV. It’s not limited to just computers. As long as the device can connect to the internet, you can use it with satellite internet. The data starts its journey here, from your computer. 

Modem/router

Once it leaves your computer, the data travels through your modem or router. This “translates” the data, if you will, so it can ultimately travel to the satellite dish. You can use a router or connect your device to a modem via an ethernet cable.

It also works via Wi-Fi, but you need a router. That enables your modem to broadcast the signal wirelessly, and any Wi-Fi-capable device can connect. Depending on the satellite internet provider, they may include the modem with a built-in router, but it can also be upgraded independently if you wish.

The modem can be bought or leased directly from the provider - ensure they configure it. Not just any modem will work with satellite internet, so you must ensure you’re using the correct equipment. 

Satellite dish

Next up - you can’t have satellite internet without a satellite dish. As you may imagine, the position of the satellite dish is critical and can make the difference between a seamless connection and a poor or non-existent one. The dish sits perfectly to transmit the signal to the satellite and get the data back. Your provider will send someone to make the setup for you. 

The importance of this cannot be overstated, as a bad position can mean that getting internet could be complex, especially if you’re on the move - like an RV. 

Space satellite

The most exciting part of the setup, by far, is the space satellite. The internet satellite in question lives around 22,000 miles away and orbits around the Earth in a geostationary orbit - meaning that it’s moving with it to ensure a stable, consistent signal no matter the time of year or day. This crucial component enables communication between the dish and the network operations center or dish. At least, this is true for satellites belonging to Viasat or HughesNet. 

Starlink satellites, however, hover at only 300 miles, as do Project Kuiper ones. These belong to Space X and Amazon, respectively. Being much closer, they are launched into what is known as LEO (low Earth orbit). This closer range enables faster speed and lower latency than the competitor satellite internet providers, granting them a significant advantage. 

However, because of this proximity, these newer generation satellites are more limited in terms of area covered than geostationary orbit satellites. 

Network operations center (NOC)

Any info requested online goes through the process detailed here, whether it’s a link, opening your email, or looking something up on Google. From the satellite, the request goes to the network operations center. The NOC, in turn, gets the request via their satellite dish, receives the information you need, and sends it back to you, making the same journey back. This journey happens in a blink of an eye, despite traveling 22,000 miles into space. Twice! Because of this great distance, latency can become a concern, but it’s still incredibly fast.

Advantages of Satellite Internet

Despite not being a very common internet connection choice, satellite internet comes with essential perks, especially in certain geographical areas. With wide coverage, consistent signal, and no cables necessary, it’s great for households that don’t have many options.

Wide range

The most important advantage, and why people still opt for satellite internet, is its extensive range. Because of the inherent way it’s set up, satellite internet can reach any household, no matter how far away or remote. With no existing infrastructure, you only need a satellite dish installation, which can even be installed on RVs. 

No cables necessary

No matter how fast Internet connections based on cable depend highly on the existing infrastructure. In practical terms, that means that they won’t be able to reach everyone, and the more isolated you are, the less likely it is that you can benefit from a cable internet. 

Satellite doesn’t need cables, so you’re not reliant on location and infrastructure. You can connect no matter where you are and what companies already have a presence in your area. Setup is just a matter of having someone install your satellite dish, and you’re good to go. 

Consistent signal

With minimal physical equipment on Earth, the chances for things to interfere with the signal are way lower. Assuming the weather is not extreme (violent storms, hurricanes, etc.), there’s nothing to worry about. The signal is stable, regardless of anything else, because the satellite dish remains in its ideal position, and the satellite in outer space moves with the Earth to always ensure consistent internet access.

Disadvantages of Satellite Internet

Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to this connection type. Because of the distance, the maximum speed available is limited, and latency is higher than cable-based connections. In addition, satellite internet can be vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. 

Limited speed

The main limitation when it comes to satellite internet is speed. And as we know, speed makes the internet go round. However, compared to other types of internet connection - particularly fiber optic - the top speed does not allow for as much wiggle room or as many users. That means that you may need to be more careful with your internet usage or that certain activities may take longer. For example, downloading large files will take you longer. If you’ve got 4 users in your household and your max upload speed is only 25 Mbps, you may also experience some lag when streaming or gaming online. 

Latency

One of the issues you may encounter with satellite internet is a higher latency compared to other services like cable internet. There’s an excellent reason for it - you’re getting internet beamed from outer space from 22,000 miles away, and the data has to make that whole journey twice. And even then, the process happens almost instantly. But compared to fiber, for example, you will notice more latency and lag. It’s gone way down compared to previous years, but it’s still something to consider. 

Weather impacts signal

While most of the time, the signal is perfectly stable - courtesy of geostationary satellites moving at the same rate as the Earth - the one thing that can come between you and your crystal clear internet is terrible weather. You won’t have this issue all the time, and certainly not with normal rain or cloudy skies, but severe weather events like heavy thunderstorms may interrupt your connection or cause a loss of signal.

The Best Satellite Providers for Remote Work

Viasat

• By far, the best thing Viasat has got going for it is that it allows for versatility regarding internet plans. With many options, you can pick something that fits your needs the best, and you’re not having to make due or overpay. 
• The other thing to remember is that their data cap is 300GB, which should be enough for most people, giving you roughly 300 hours of watch time per month. 
• But one benefit Viasat has in their corner is that their coverage is generous - the satellites are far enough (20,000 miles+) that they can reach every corner of the U.S. and ensure service. 
• Unlike other providers, Viasat equipment could not be bought outright a few years ago. Instead, you incurred an equipment rental charge of $13 per month. When looking at competitors charging from $450 to $599 for equipment, it seems like a deal, but it adds up. Now, however, there is the option to purchase at a reasonable price. 

Advantages of Viasat

Versatility

The most important advantage here is the versatility of the internet plans that Viasat puts forth. You’re not limited in your choice, and you can pick and choose what works best for your budget and your needs, which is not always a luxury afforded to satellite internet users. 

Affordable one-time equipment purchase

Among the positive changes they’ve made recently, Viasat has chosen to also offer customers the option to make a one-time purchase of their equipment rather than pay a monthly fee. It costs $299, and it’s more affordable than the equipment at either of its competitors. 

Disadvantages of Viasat

Data cap, deprioritization

While the maximum data allowance is generous enough, should you surpass it, you may experience what is known as “deprioritization.” That means a slower speed, typically prioritizing other users in the network.

HughesNet

• If there’s one thing that puts HughesNet above its competitors, it’s reliability and consistency, particularly regarding download speeds. With other providers, location can dictate the speed of their internet connection. Still, when you’re a HughesNet customer, you benefit from their max speed no matter how isolated your home is. 
• The good news is that there is no data limit after which you get cut off. The bad news is that, like Viasat, once you’ve reached your monthly data allowance, you will notice your internet speed gets capped at 1 - 3 Mbps. 
• Despite the comparatively low internet speed, the FCC has noted that HughesNet exceeded expectations in recent years, providing a median download speed of 150% and higher than the advertised speed. 
• However, HughesNet is consistently at the bottom in customer satisfaction surveys, which is definitely something to consider if this is your only source of internet in your location. 

Advantages of HughesNet

Consistent speed

Few things are more frustrating than uneven and inconsistent internet speed, so HughesNet gets an advantage over others for delivering a consistent product month after month, regardless of location. That’s an essential consideration for someone who wishes to use satellite internet for remote work. 

Good coverage

And speaking of location, it doesn’t matter where you need internet access; HughesNet can get it to you. Whereas other providers and other types of internet connection can fall short and not be able to service your area, HughesNet’s satellites have excellent coverage. 

Disadvantages of HughesNet

Slow internet

The problem with the internet speed is that despite being consistent, it’s also limited. With a max speed of just 25 Mbps, that can become frustrating in a household with multiple heavy users. If you’re on a work call and someone else is streaming in HD, you may already be experiencing some lag. 

Limited data

Data can also be a problem. A low data allowance can mean you “run out” before the month’s over, which is not something you can afford when you’re relying on this internet connection to work. While you still benefit from the 1-3 Mbps, you’re given, that’s not nearly enough. 

Starlink

• Starlink’s fame comes mainly from notorious billionaire Elon Musk. He is going to space and giving us the internet from space; Starlink is the satellite internet project of his company, SpaceX. The service is still new and far from mature, but there are currently 500,000 subscribers benefiting from the service provided by 2,300 satellites, with more to come. 
• Subscribers are active all over the globe, and with more and more satellites being sent up, that’s opening up more locations and more coverage. The speeds can’t be beaten when it comes to satellite internet - thanks to the proximity of its satellites, Starlink can offer 250 Mbps, higher than both Viasat and HughesNet. Latency is also much lower, sitting at 20 to 40 milliseconds vs. 450 to 700 milliseconds.
• The plans are minimal - the basic Starlink plan and Starlink Premium, which offers higher speed and a higher performance satellite dish, at a higher price. However, you get unlimited data in exchange, and a 2-year contract does not confine you. 
• Ultimately, Starlink has the most significant potential among its competitors since it’s the company that is actively innovating in this sector and offering a high standard of service. 

Advantages of Starlink:

High speed 

The top speed is one of its most important and most attractive advantages, and one which other services cannot compete with. 500 Mbps compared to 150 Mbps or even a sad 25 Mbps if we’re talking about HughesNet. 

Low latency

While latency is no longer as much of a problem for satellite internet as it used to be, it can still be frustrating, especially for those used to faster internet connections. Starlink is the provider with the lowest latency in this niche if that’s a concern.

Disadvantages of Starlink

Limited coverage because close-range satellites 

Its main advantage is also it's undoing for some - the proximity of the satellites enables Starlink to offer high speeds and low latency. Still, it also stops them from providing the full coverage its competitors do. There is a need for more satellites (in the thousands), and the number keeps growing. 

More expensive 

That this service is considerably more expensive than the other two is not novel or surprising - with $599 for the equipment fee alone and an eye-watering $2,500 for Starlink Premium, it’s not an internet package for casual users or the faint of heart.

Conclusion

With so many people working from home in the wake of the pandemic and more expected to join them over the next few years, creating the perfect conditions for remote work is more important than ever. A huge component of that is your choice of internet connection and provider. 

If you live remotely and cable internet isn’t possible, then satellite internet is the next best thing - but which provider? There are three leading contenders on the market, and while Viasat and HughesNet may have established themselves with affordable prices and high coverage, Starlink is coming in strong with higher speeds and lower latency.