MYTHS ABOUT SATELLITE INTERNET
Myths can obstruct our understanding of the world. They can keep us from seizing advantages we otherwise would have had.
Some people hesitate to acquire satellite internet service because what they’ve been told about it isn’t true. The most common myths about it are that it’s expensive, it’s too slow, and it won’t work during or after bad weather. Here we’ll examine each myth in turn.
Myth #1: It’s Expensive
This was true several years ago. It’s not anymore. Huge advances in technology have multiplied speed and bandwidth, and greater efficiency has dramatically reduced consumer price. Seven years ago, the most basic satellite internet service cost $79.00 per month. Today, HughesNet’s entry-level tier, with a download speed of 5 megabits per second (5 MB/S), costs just $29.99 per month. This is highly competitive with DSL and cable broadband services.
Myth #2: It’s Too Slow
One if the most persistent myths about satellite internet is that it’s too slow to be practical. It was true several years ago, but not now. At the dawn of satellite internet, download speeds averaged about 750 kilobits per second (750 KB/S), and upload speeds averaged about 256 KB/S. HughesNet now offers plans with top download speeds of 5 to 15 MB/S- comparable with cable internet- and upload speeds of 1 to 2 MB/S.
Myth #3: The Signal Lags
You need only about half a second. There is some latency in sending and receiving signals, because they bounce off of a satellite 22.500 miles high, but this limitation has been highly exaggerated. You’re unlikely to be hampered by signal latency unless you’re playing interactive games. You probably won’t notice any effect on your e-mail, web browsing, social media posts, or sharing of photos.
Myth #4: Bad Weather Critically Disrupts the Service
Extremely severe thunderstorms or blizzards can interrupt the signal temporarily. This condition, though, is not as serious or as frequent as it’s been made out to be. You’ll begin receiving the signal again once the storm passes.
By contrast, severe weather can knock out cable service, for entire neighborhoods, for days or even weeks at a time. This is especially true if the cables are flooded or cut by falling trees.
Don’t let myths keep you from the internet service that works best for you. If you have any questions, talk to us. We can help.