City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights

Kyle Weckerly

Updated:11/16/24

Published:09/14/18

You’ve packed up your things and moved your family away from the BIG City out Rural Town, U.S.A. Then you realize, “What do we do for high-speed internet?”

City Lights Got Nothin’ on Country Nights

Moving from the bustling city to the serene countryside can be a refreshing change, but it often comes with the challenge of finding high-speed internet. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate internet options in rural areas:

Satellite Internet: A Viable Option

When traditional cable or fiber-optic connections aren’t available, satellite internet becomes a practical solution. Both HughesNet and Viasat offer reliable services with the latest advancements in technology.

HughesNet Gen5:

Speeds: Offers speeds up to 25 Mbps.
Data Limits: No overage charges; speeds are throttled after data limits are reached.
Reliability: Ranked #1 by the FCC for delivering advertised speeds.

Viasat:

Speeds: Provides speeds up to 200 Mbps in select areas.
Plans: Offers unlimited data plans, though these can be costly.
Contracts: Guaranteed rates for three years with a two-year contract.

Gaming and Streaming

While satellite internet allows for most online activities, certain high-demand tasks may face limitations:

Gaming: Most games are playable, but fast-paced, online multiplayer games may suffer from lag due to latency.
Streaming: Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime can be streamed in HD. However, data usage can quickly add up, especially on tiered plans.

Fixed Wireless Internet

Another option for rural areas is fixed wireless internet. Providers like Rise Broadband use antennas to deliver internet service, bypassing the need for extensive cable infrastructure.

Speeds: Up to 50 Mbps in some areas.
Installation: Usually requires a small antenna installed on your property.

Installation and Costs

Installation: Typically free, though credit checks are often required.
Monthly Costs: Satellite plans range from $60 to $150 depending on the speed and data limits.
Equipment Fees: Around $10 per month, with lifetime lease options available.

Conclusion

Switching to country life doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice high-speed internet. With satellite options from HughesNet and Viasat, and fixed wireless from providers like Rise Broadband, you can stay connected and enjoy the tranquility of rural living.