Satellite Providers

Overview of Satellite Internet Providers

Satellite internet providers deliver service via satellite. Data travels from remote servers to broadcast stations connected to a provider’s satellite (or multiple satellites). This satellite then transmits directly to consumers, via dishes installed on their property. Nationwide, satellite internet has 100 percent coverage. Providers that offer satellite internet in the US include Viasat, HughesNet, Big Bend Telephone Company and X2nSat. See our guide to how satellite internet works for more technical details on frequencies used, hardware, and etc.

Why are there so few satellite internet providers in the USA?

As of 2020, there are 4 satellite internet providers with coverage in the US. Most of these are available nationwide, with HughesNet and Viasat (formerly Exede) being the main options for consumer internet.

Like other internet technologies, the trend over the past ten years has been for companies to merge, leading to a reduction of consumer choice. With satellite, the lack of choices is partly caused by technical requirements; launching and maintaining satellites is extremely expensive, so it makes sense that only a handful of companies can afford to compete.

That said, satellite internet service has carved out an essential niche for itself through the years and serves as an internet lifeline for rural customers. Companies are beginning to experiment with low orbit satellites to increase download speeds and reduce latency.

Viasat vs. HughesNet

Viasat and HughesNet are the most well-known satellite providers in the US. The main factor when deciding between Viasat and HughesNet is speed. Viasat recently increased their fastest available speed to 100 Mbps while HughesNet offers 25 Mbps across all their plans. Briefly put, Viasat is best for homes and/or businesses in need of higher data caps and the fastest speed available by a satellite internet provider. HughesNet has the lower priced plans of the two, but also has smaller data caps. Contract lengths are similar between the two, as well as monthly equipment fees. Read our side-by-side comparison of HughesNet and Viasat for full details on how to decide which is best for you.