• Satellite Internet Providers
• Satellite Internet Technology
• Satellite Internet VPN
• Satellite Internet Access
• Satellite Internet Limitations
• Satellite Internet Starband
• Satellite Internet Macintosh
• Satellite Internet: One Way vs. Two Way
• Satellite Internet: With Dish Network / DirecTV
• Satellite Internet: DirecWay
• Satellite Internet: Requirements
• Technology Trends
• Regulatory Issues

Satellite Internet access is ideal for businesses and consumers that can't subscribe to traditional high speed Internet access methods. While living off the beaten path may have its benefits, access to high speed Internet connections is not one of them.

Over the last few years two companies have developed a line of services that fill the need for dedicated high speed Internet connections in rural and remote locations. Using satellites that orbit far above the earth's atmosphere, StarBand and Direcway are able to offer satellite Internet access to nearly every location in the United States. Both companies offer two way (the satellites both send and receive data) Internet service that is affordable to most homes and businesses. As the demand for satellite internet access has grown, so have the reliability and functionality of the products offered through StarBand and Direcway.

Here's how it works:

Because the systems work both up-stream and down-stream, there is no need for a phone line for these services to work. Initially the cost of the earth based satellite dish was priced beyond the reach of many households and small businesses and received only scant attention. However, in the past year the startup prices of satellite Internet connections have fallen considerably, making the service available to millions more users.

How Fast Does it Go?

The download and upload speed for satellite internet access depends on several factors including: the satellite internet provider, the level of oversubscription on their network, your line of sight to the orbiting satellite, the service package purchased and in cases, the weather. Typically a user can expect to receive about 500 kbps download and approximately 80 kbps upload. While this is slower then many cable and DSL connections, it is about 10 times faster then a normal modem.

What Equipment is Required?

While setting up StarBand or Direcway internet service can be more costly and more involved then DSL or Cable service, it is often well worth the effort. In order to subscriber to either StarBand or Direcway, a user must have:

• A two by three foot dish
• A satellite internet modem
• A clear line of sight to the providers satellite

Note: Because StarBand and Direcway both provide two way service, the FCC requires that the dish - or base station as it is often called - be installed by a licensed technician. This will most likely account for the largest part of your startup cost. When you order your service through Satellite Internet Access.com, we will provide you with a technician to perform the installation for you. Unfortunately, all installations are unique and are quoted on a case by case basis. If you have questions about installation you can email us at info@satellite-internet-access.net or call 800.371.4301.

How Long Does it Take to Setup?

The typical installation period normally takes about two weeks from order to completion. The steps are:

1. The StarBand or Direcway equipment is purchased from Satellite Internet Access.net and shipped to your service location for installation;
2. A quote for installation service at your location is provided;
3. An install date and time are set;
4. The installation technician arrives at your location and completes the installation and turns up your service.