Evaluating A Satellite Internet Provider
Satellite Internet is becoming a more popular choice for connectivity in rural areas of America. This increase is due in part to the vast availability of the service as well as the fact that if these remote subscribers want broadband Internet access, satellite is probably the only option. Will the proliferation of satellite TV it has become easier to approach customers with a satellite option given that they are a least somewhat familiar with the technology.
When choosing a satellite provider there are many aspects of the service that may be foreign to even experienced broadband users. Here we will discuss what to look for in a good service, and what should be avoided.
Satellite Internet: What to Look For
The first important step in any service is installation. With that said, professional installation at an affordable price should be available through any good provider. Make sure that pricing for installation is clear and that you understand it, because a $600 install bill that wasn't expected could hurt. Confirm that the hardware cost either includes installation, or that the price is clearly outlined in the contract. There is no way around the cost of the dish, but there are many ways to pay for it. Some companies now offer lease options that include installation, and this may be a great way to defer the initial cost.
Technical support is going to be very important for a new satellite Internet user. There are many new ways things can go wrong with this service, and few first time users are prepared to handle them all themselves. What a customer should look for is specifically permanent post-install support, preferably free. Not all customer support is free, so be sure to understand what you may be paying for if you need to call. The contract signed for the service will outline this.
Security is another issue that needs special mention when satellite transmissions are involved. Make sure your service uses some type of encryption to secure data throughput. If you use online banking or make purchases on the Internet this may be a concern.
Speed is another popular concern many new users have. Although satellite Internet access will never be as fast as cable or DSL, it is far and away faster than dial up. Make sure the provider of choice has a method to improve latency between the satellite and the user's dish. Some providers use a type of hardware optimization and acceleration that improves latency issues, though they will never be removed of course.
Multiple satellite access can be important. Many providers have access to several satellites in orbit so they can offer their customers the best possible coverage available. Be sure your provider of choice can offer this, as it also adds a level of redundancy that may be needed if there are any problems with your connection.
Lastly, make sure your satellite Internet provider of choice maintains its own hardware, and that it doesn't contract out. This will be included in your service contract, along with a stipulation that outdated hardware will be removed and updated at little or no cost.
Satellite Internet: What to Avoid
There are two types of satellite connections, one-way and two-way. Although it is possible through the use of proxy servers to view the Internet through a one-way connection, it is slow and there are many drawbacks. Make sure any provider you choose offer two-way connectivity with the hardware necessary to make this connection. If a provider is offering connectivity for less than $40.00 per month, it's a safe bet its one-way access, or there are other costs that are not being disclosed.
All providers that offer hardware should be certified to do so. Find out what type of hardware your provider of choice offers and make sure they are authorized to sell it, and certified to install it.
A customer doesn't want a provider that doesn't have an office within driving distance. Local providers are generally better to do business with for the simple reason that tech support is closer to your door. Avoid companies that do business through nothing but contractors.
For more articles about Satellite Internet Service, plus a form that allows you to check for all major high speed ISPs in your area, return to our main satellite Internet page.