Satellite internet - how does it work and is it really reliable?

In the era of digital technologies, the internet has become an indispensable part of our lives. While access to the internet is a given in cities and densely populated areas, it might not be so easy in rural and remote places. That's where satellite internet comes into play, offering coverage even where cables and mobile signals can't reach. How does it work and is it as reliable as claimed?

How does satellite internet work?

Satellite internet works on a simple principle where your computer and antenna, an orbiting satellite, and the internet provider's ground station communicate with each other. These three points form a virtual triangle over which your data travels.

When you enter a web address into your browser, your request travels from your computer to the antenna. The antenna sends the signal towards the satellite. The satellite captures the signal and sends it lightning-fast back to Earth, this time to the provider's ground station.

The ground station acts as the brain of the whole system, processing the request and sending the requested data back to you – via the satellite and your antenna to your computer. Although the signal has to travel a vast distance, in most cases you need not worry about low speeds.

Some providers can offer you the same latency (delay in data transmission between different network points) as more common types of connections.

The reliability of satellite internet: Myths and reality

The reliability of satellite internet is often surrounded by myths and half-truths. While it was once associated with slow speeds, high latency, and frequent signal drops, modern technology has brought revolutionary changes. Today's satellite internet boasts speeds comparable to fixed connections, and its reliability continues to improve.

However, there are factors that can affect the reliability of satellite internet. One of them is the weather. Extreme meteorological events, such as heavy rain, dense snow, or fog, can disrupt the signal, causing it to slow down or even drop out.

Another factor is the technical condition of the satellite and ground station. Even the most modern technologies can face malfunctions leading to internet outages.

Advantages and disadvantages of satellite internet

Satellite internet has many undeniable advantages compared to other types of connections, but also some downsides you need to consider.

Advantages

• Broad coverage – Satellite internet is available virtually anywhere in the world. This makes it an ideal solution for remote areas, mountain cabins, ships at sea, and other locations.
• Independence from ground infrastructure – Satellite internet does not require cables or other ground infrastructure. This simplifies and speeds up its installation and makes it resilient to ground network outages.
• Quick installation – The installation of satellite internet is relatively quick and easy. All you need is to set up an antenna in an appropriate location with a clear view of the sky and connect it to your computer.

Disadvantages

• Higher latency – Although we mentioned that latency is not an issue with most providers, you might still face limitations. Starlink is the best in this regard, but smaller providers might not offer such high-quality connections.
• Weather influence – As already mentioned, extreme weather can negatively affect the reliability of satellite internet, leading to frequent outages. Again, it depends on the provider and the quality of the connection.
• Higher cost – Satellite internet is typically more expensive than fixed connections, both in terms of installation and monthly fees.

Who provides satellite internet?

Just like other types of connections, the quality of satellite internet depends on the provider you sign up with. Several companies offer these services, differing in coverage, available packages, pricing, and quality of services.

The most well-known satellite internet providers include:

• Starlink – Founded by Elon Musk, it aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet through a network of thousands of low-earth orbit satellites. While Starlink is still building its infrastructure, it already offers services almost globally.
• Tooway – A service provided by INTV that uses geostationary satellites to offer broadband internet in remote and hard-to-reach areas. It offers asymmetric download and upload speeds but is more affordable than Starlink.

When choosing a provider, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferred parameters, such as connection speed, data cap, price, and availability in your area. Don't forget to read reviews and user experiences.

The future of satellite internet

Satellite internet has experienced a turbulent development in recent years, far surpassing its former limits. From being mainly an emergency technology, it is evolving into a dynamically growing field with enormous potential.

One of the main drivers of this revolution is low-earth orbit satellite constellations, such as Elon Musk's Starlink. These constellations, comprising thousands of miniature satellites orbiting close to Earth, promise a dramatic reduction in latency, which is still one of the main limitations of satellite internet today.

Lower latency means faster responses, smoother streaming, and a generally more comfortable online experience comparable to fixed connections. With the development of laser technologies for communication between satellites, there is further potential for fast data transmission and increased network capacity. Satellites will be able to communicate directly with each other without the need for complex data relay through ground stations, further reducing latency and increasing reliability.

Innovations are not limited to space technologies. On Earth, new types of antennas with advanced targeting and satellite tracking are being developed, ensuring more stable signals even under adverse weather conditions. Additionally, they are often smaller, lighter, and easier to install. Satellite internet thus has the potential to become a fully-fledged alternative to traditional forms of connections, not only in remote areas.

As you can see, satellite internet is an attractive option for those without access to fixed connections or looking for reliable solutions for remote areas. Modern technology has brought significant improvements in speed and reliability, and although there are factors that can affect the connection, rapid technological development is quickly addressing them.