Satellite Internet: Internet That’s Everywhere

Satellite Internet

Tara Mcgarry

How Does Satellite Internet Work?

You’ve probably heard the word “satellite internet” tossed around a time or two, and you’ve more than likely spotted a giant dish on someone’s roof. But what is satellite internet? 

Satellite internet transmits data from space—literally. Satellite doesn’t rely on cable lines, phone, or television. Instead, a stationary satellite dish sitting 22,300 miles above the atmosphere is responsible for doing anything from checking your email to shopping online.

With the advent of wireless internet, many people wonder why satellite internet is still around; it uses older technology and relies on long-distance travel. But don’t count it out just yet.

Satellite Internet has a lot going for it. Here’s how it works:

Your modem sends a signal through a geostationary satellite in your home (the one that sits on the roof) to the mothership satellite in space. Then the satellite in space pings back; first to your dish, then through your modem, and finally to your computer via an ethernet cord or router. 

Sound complex? It’s actually fairly simple, and it’s more common than you’d think. 

Satellite Internet is Everywhere 

Because satellite internet comes from space, you can get internet access anywhere. Other types of internet, like high-speed wireless internet, are inhibited by mountain ranges and large buildings. Plus, they’re available only in certain areas. 

If you live somewhere rural, satellite internet can deliver a connection other providers can’t. Rural areas are usually out of most wireless providers’ reach, but even if you don’t live somewhere central, your house may not have access to wireless internet if it isn’t wired properly.

The Benefits of Satellite Internet

If your home isn’t wireless connection-compatible, or if high speed internet is simply unavailable or too expensive, satellite internet can swoop in and save the day. 

Why else do people opt for satellite internet? 

  • Global availability. 
  • Faster than dial-up.
  • Effective in out-of-the-way locations (which is why the military, airplanes, and oil rigs rely on it). 
  • Doesn’t slow down in user-heavy traffic times. 
  • Unaffected by buildings or other physical barriers. 
  • Can support multiple devices. 

Also, since satellite internet travels towards the sky, it’s unaffected by wireless connections that share airwaves with other wireless technologies.


Between broad availability, fast speeds (compared to DSL and dial-up), and its indifference to certain terrain and buildings, satellite internet is a great option.