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Originally Posted On: https://www.highspeedoptions.com/resources/insights/future-of-satellite-internet

Satellite internet has come a long way over the years. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re more immersed in technology than ever as many of us work from home and take telehealth conferences over in-person doctor visits.

Therefore, the need for internet access is consistently growing, especially for people in rural areas. That’s precisely where satellite internet comes in with the rise of low-orbiting satellites to decrease latency. More on that later. Keep reading to learn about the fascinating and ever-changing nature of satellite internet.

The Rise of LEO Satellites

The number of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites surrounding the earth will only increase over the coming years. Since LEO satellites orbit closer to the planet than other satellites, they have lower latency, meaning the signal will be much stronger for everyday online activities such as video calls and remote learning.

Starlink, a subdivision of Elon Musk’s SpaceX program, is the first internet service provider to bring LEO internet to the market without going bankrupt. It offers high-speed, low-latency service in areas nationwide, with download speeds averaging 100 – 200 Mbps. Starlink is a reliable option as it continues to develop its technology and optimize its performance and availability.

Satellite internet goes where fiber and DSL can’t. Satellites by far create the broadest coverage for home internet, especially in rural areas that have clear views of the sky. Unlike satellites in the past, today’s satellite providers deal with fewer weather-related issues, are easier to install and are much more affordable.

How Satellite Internet Works

Satellite internet is a wireless connection that uses space technology to send and receive data. It’s available virtually anywhere in the US and primarily offers high-speed internet ranging from 25 to 100 Mbps, which is best suited for suburban and rural areas.

Top Satellite Internet Providers

Besides Starlink, Viasat and HughesNet are excellent options for your satellite internet needs.

Viasat is our top choice for high-speed satellite internet due to its range of speeds. This provider has availability in even the most remote locations and offers speeds 3x faster than traditional DSL. Customers also can bundle internet service with Viasat’s home phone and internet security plans.

HughesNet allows you to live where you love while staying connected. It offers both satellite internet and home phone services to bridge the digital divide further. HughesNet is an excellent choice for rural and suburban residents looking for a reliable network connection at a fair price.

Where Do We Go from Here?

The best way to decide which provider is right for you is first to see which plans are available in your area. You’re also going to want to factor in your desired internet speed and how many devices you plan to connect simultaneously. As far as the future goes, be prepared for more availability and higher speeds in rural areas as the number of LEO satellites continues to climb.