Satellite Internet Access 

Satellites are used to transmit telephone, television and data signals originated by common carriers (broadcasters and distributors of broadcast), and cable TV program material. High-speed Internet access via satellite provides consumers another wireless alternative and is ideal for businesses and consumers who can't subscribe to traditional high speed Internet access methods, such as people residing in remote areas.

Over the past few years companies have developed a line of service that fills the need for high speed Internet connections in rural and remote locations. Using satellites that orbit far above the earth's atmosphere, companies are able to offer satellite Internet access, including two-way internet service (the satellites both send and receive data) that is affordable for most homes and businesses. Because the systems work both up stream and down stream, there is no need for a phone line in order for these services to work.

The download and upload speed for satellite Internet access depends on several factors including: the satellite Internet provider, the consumer's line of sight to the orbiting satellite, the service package purchased, and the weather. Typically a consumer can expect to receive about 500 kilobits per second (kbps) download and approximately 80 kbps upload. While this type of connection is slower than many Internet access services provided using cable modem and DSL connections, it is about 10 times faster than a dial-up modem.

Setting up satellite Internet access today can be more costly and more involved than obtaining high-speed Internet access using DSL or cable modem. A user must have: a two or three foot dish (or "base station" as it is often called), a satellite Internet modem, and a clear line of sight to the provider's satellite. The dish will most likely account for the largest part of the startup cost.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Satellite Connections 

Satellite access to the Internet is an alternative to DSL service and cable model service, and in particular, its major advantage is its ability to reach areas that other alternatives can not. The line of sight is required for a satellite dish in order to see the satellite. In extreme weather conditions, the service may get impacted. The cost of satellite equipment and installation is higher than other alternatives, and sometimes, providers absorb the cost with various contractual and marketing promotions. Due to long haul satellite links, the transmission delay may be higher than other alternatives. This should not cause any problem for current Internet applications which are mostly Web surfing and e-mail applications.

Also Check Wireless Internet Access