An Overview Of VSAT Broadband Internet

How VSAT Technology Makes Satellite Internet Access Possible

by Jon Norwood - October 20th, 2006

Although satellites have been used to transfer data back and forth from Earth since the 1960's, it is only recently that the average consumer could get access to this type of technology. This means that what is obvious to some, may still be a complete mystery to many, so here we will discuss the very basics of Satellite Internet Connections, and the associated technology.

There are two distinct types of satellite connections, one-way and two-way. One-way connections are rarely used for Internet access; therefore we mention them here only briefly. These connections were the earliest available, and utilized the C Band frequency at 6 GHz. One-way connections are generally receive only, using Spread Spectrum technology. With a series of proxy servers it is possible to simulate web surfing with this type of connection, but it is slow and unnecessary.

Two-way connections are what is commonly used for Internet access, and is widely available through the United States. This type of Satellite service is also called VSAT.

Exactly What Is VSAT?

VSAT stands for Very Small Aperture Terminal, a terminal which comprises a ground station and a satellite dish. Traditionally VSAT technology was used by businesses to connect remote sites in order to share data, as well as other point of sale uses such as RFID transactions. Credit cards companies were among the first to use this type of technology, and now it has become commonplace and can be seen in gas stations and toll boots across America.

Several companies including DirectWay, Starband, and others are now using VSAT technology to deliver broadband Internet service to many locations that would not normally have access to it. This includes rural areas, as well as offshore businesses and residences that will never have access to cable or DSL connectivity.

VSAT Satellite Networks

VSAT has matured over the years, and there a currently two network configurations that have become popular: mesh topology and star topology.

Mesh topology utilizes relay terminals to manage the satellite signal. Theses relays send information through a hub and allow for a less centralized throughput. This can be valuable as there are fewer bottlenecks for data to get locked up in, as well as a more reliable service as there is no one central hub that could go down.

Star topology is the exact opposite of mesh in that it depends on a central uplink to send all data through. This configuration gets its name because a network map would look like a star, with the hub at the center and arms reaching outward in all directions. This network can be easier to manage than its mesh counterpart.

A combination of these two configurations is becoming popular, bringing the strengths of both topologies into one network. This type of network looks like a string of stars joined together, with several central hubs that act as redundancies for each other. These are not set up in series, and all the hubs function together.

Satellite technology has come a long way since its early beginnings over 45 years ago, but it has a long way to go. Although availability is excellent, the price of satellite Internet access is still quite high. Once the prices come down, VSAT broadband Internet will become a more competitive option for high speed Internet access, but until then broadband satellite will be relegated to the “only if you have too” file.

	Popular Satellite Internet Articles		Some Frequently Asked Questions
	Satellite Internet Comparison		Is Satellite Better Than DSL / Cable?
	Choosing A Satellite Internet Provider		How Fast Is Satellite Internet?
	Satellite Internet Security Issues		Can I Run A Network On Satellite?
	Broadband Cable vs Satellite Internet		What Type Of Equipment Is Required?
	What Is VSAT Broadband Internet?		Can I Use My TV Dish For Satellite?

In our section on Satellite Internet Providers you will find more articles and explanations of satellite Internet technology and how you can get this service for your home or business.