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Viasat vs Hughesnet: Which Is Best for Your Internet Needs

When you become a new homeowner finding an internet provider may seem tricky. Read on to learn about Viasat vs Hughesnet and which is best for you.

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Viasat vs Hughesnet: Which Is Best for Your Internet Needs
Viasat vs HughesNet: Which is Best for Your Internet Needs?

Viasat vs HughesNet: Which is Best for Your Internet Needs?

When choosing a satellite internet provider, two prominent names often come up: Viasat and HughesNet. Both offer a range of plans catering to different needs, but which one is right for you? This updated comparison will help you decide by examining the latest plans, pricing, and speeds from both providers.

Viasat Plans

Viasat offers a variety of plans with different speeds and data allowances. Here are the current options:

Plan Name Price Speed Data Allowance
Unlimited Bronze 12 $49.99/mo Up to 12 Mbps 40 GB
Unlimited Silver 25 $69.99/mo Up to 25 Mbps 60 GB
Unlimited Gold 50 $99.99/mo Up to 50 Mbps 100 GB
Unlimited Platinum 100 $149.99/mo Up to 100 Mbps 150 GB

HughesNet Plans

HughesNet offers straightforward plans with consistent speeds but varying data allowances. Here are the latest plans:

Plan Name Price Speed Data Allowance
15 GB Plan $64.99/mo 25 Mbps 15 GB
30 GB Plan $74.99/mo 25 Mbps 30 GB
45 GB Plan $109.99/mo 25 Mbps 45 GB
75 GB Plan $159.99/mo 25 Mbps 75 GB

Comparison Chart

To help you compare Viasat and HughesNet side by side, here is a detailed comparison chart:

Feature Viasat HughesNet
Starting Price $49.99/mo $64.99/mo
Max Speed Up to 100 Mbps 25 Mbps
Data Allowance 40 GB - 150 GB 15 GB - 75 GB
Contract Length 24 months 24 months
Equipment Fees $9.99/mo rental or $299.99 purchase $14.99/mo rental or $449.99 purchase
Availability Nationwide Nationwide

Key Considerations

  • Speed: Viasat offers higher maximum speeds (up to 100 Mbps) compared to HughesNet's consistent 25 Mbps. If speed is a priority, Viasat might be the better choice.
  • Data Allowance: Viasat also provides higher data allowances, with plans offering up to 150 GB. HughesNet’s highest plan offers 75 GB.
  • Pricing: Viasat’s plans start at a lower price point ($49.99/mo) compared to HughesNet ($64.99/mo). However, HughesNet’s pricing is more consistent across its plans.
  • Equipment Fees: Viasat has lower equipment rental fees ($9.99/mo) compared to HughesNet ($14.99/mo), but both providers offer the option to purchase the equipment outright.

Additional Features and Benefits

Viasat

  • Unlimited Data Plans: While Viasat's plans have data allowances, they do not cut off your internet once you exceed the limit. Instead, they may reduce your speeds during peak times.
  • Viasat Shield: This is a security suite that helps protect your devices from online threats.
  • Flexibility: Viasat offers a range of plans with varying speeds and data allowances, giving you more options to choose from based on your needs.

HughesNet

  • Bonus Zone: HughesNet offers an additional 50 GB of data per month to use during off-peak hours (2 AM - 8 AM).
  • SmartTechnologies: These include features like SmartFetch and SmartCompression, which help optimize your data usage and improve browsing speeds.
  • No Hard Data Limits: Similar to Viasat, HughesNet doesn’t cut off your internet if you exceed your data limit. Instead, they may reduce your speeds.

Customer Service and Support

Customer service is a crucial factor when choosing an internet provider. Here’s a comparison of Viasat and HughesNet in this area:

  • Viasat: Viasat offers 24/7 customer support via phone and online chat. They also have a comprehensive online help center with FAQs, guides, and troubleshooting tips.
  • HughesNet: HughesNet provides 24/7 customer support through phone and chat. Their website includes a robust support section with FAQs, video tutorials, and troubleshooting guides.

Installation and Setup

Both providers require professional installation for their satellite internet services:

  • Viasat: Installation is typically free with a two-year contract. A technician will install the satellite dish and modem at your home.
  • HughesNet: HughesNet also offers free standard installation with a two-year contract. A professional technician will set up the satellite dish and modem.

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Conclusion

Choosing between Viasat and HughesNet depends on your specific needs. If you require higher speeds and larger data allowances, Viasat is likely the better option. However, if you prefer consistent pricing and a straightforward plan structure, HughesNet might be more suitable. Consider your internet usage habits, budget, and the importance of speed versus data allowance when making your decision. Both providers offer reliable satellite internet services with nationwide availability, making them excellent choices for rural and remote areas where traditional broadband options may be limited.


Viasat WiFi Internet : A Comprehensive Review

Viasat WiFi Internet : A Comprehensive Review for 2020

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Viasat WiFi Internet : A Comprehensive Review
Viasat WiFi Internet News

Viasat WiFi Internet News

Introduction

Viasat, a prominent satellite internet provider, continues to make significant strides in the broadband industry. This article delves into the latest developments, offerings, and technological advancements by Viasat, highlighting how they are shaping the future of satellite internet.

Recent Developments

Expansion of Satellite Network

New Satellites Launched: Viasat has successfully launched new satellites to enhance its network capacity and coverage. These satellites aim to provide faster and more reliable internet service, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

Improved Bandwidth: The new satellites are equipped with advanced technology to offer improved bandwidth, allowing for better performance even during peak usage times.

Introduction of Viasat-3 Satellite Constellation

Global Coverage: The Viasat-3 satellite constellation promises near-global coverage, significantly expanding Viasat's reach. This initiative aims to connect even the most remote locations with high-speed internet.

Enhanced Speeds and Capacity: Viasat-3 is designed to deliver unprecedented speeds and capacity, ensuring that customers receive consistent and reliable internet service.

New Services and Plans

Flexible Plans for Residential Customers

Unlimited Data Plans: Viasat now offers unlimited data plans, allowing users to enjoy high-speed internet without worrying about data caps. This is particularly beneficial for heavy internet users and households with multiple connected devices.

Affordable Options: To cater to a diverse customer base, Viasat provides a range of plans at various price points, ensuring that high-speed internet is accessible to more people.

Business Internet Solutions

Tailored Packages: Viasat offers specialized internet packages for businesses, providing reliable and high-speed connectivity essential for business operations.

Remote Work and Telecommuting: With the rise of remote work, Viasat's business internet solutions support seamless telecommuting, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications.

Technological Advancements

Enhanced WiFi Technology

Smart WiFi: Viasat has introduced smart WiFi technology, which optimizes the distribution of internet bandwidth across devices. This ensures a stable and fast connection, even when multiple devices are connected simultaneously.

Advanced Security Features: Viasat's WiFi technology includes robust security features to protect against cyber threats, ensuring a safe online experience for users.

5G Integration

Hybrid 5G-Satellite Network: Viasat is exploring the integration of 5G technology with its satellite network. This hybrid approach aims to combine the strengths of both technologies, offering enhanced speed, reliability, and coverage.

Future Prospects: The integration of 5G and satellite technology is expected to revolutionize internet connectivity, providing ultra-fast speeds and low latency, even in remote areas.

Community Impact and Accessibility

Bridging the Digital Divide

Rural and Underserved Areas: Viasat's efforts focus on bridging the digital divide by providing high-speed internet to rural and underserved communities. This initiative aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of location, has access to reliable internet.

Educational Programs: Viasat partners with educational institutions to provide internet access to schools in remote areas, supporting online learning and educational resources.

Disaster Response and Connectivity

Emergency Services: Viasat's satellite internet plays a crucial role in disaster response, providing connectivity in areas affected by natural disasters where traditional infrastructure is damaged.

Mobile Units: Viasat deploys mobile internet units to provide temporary connectivity in disaster-stricken areas, ensuring that emergency services and affected communities stay connected.

Conclusion

Viasat continues to push the boundaries of satellite internet technology, offering innovative solutions that enhance connectivity and accessibility. With its expanding satellite network, new service plans, and commitment to bridging the digital divide, Viasat is poised to play a significant role in the future of global internet connectivity.

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High Speed Internet Providers News, Insights and Tidbits

Keeping you up to date with High Speed Broadband Internet Providers updates news and information.

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High Speed Internet Providers News, Insights and Tidbits
High-Speed Broadband Internet Providers News and Updates

High-Speed Broadband Internet Providers News and Updates

Introduction

Staying informed about the latest developments in high-speed broadband internet is essential. This guide highlights recent news and updates from the industry, focusing on innovations, accessibility, and significant events.

The Broadband Space Race

The deployment of satellites by companies like OneWeb and SpaceX has continued to expand, aiming to provide global high-speed internet access, particularly targeting rural areas. These efforts aim to bridge the digital divide, ensuring even remote areas can access high-speed internet. Additionally, HughesNet and Viasat are enhancing their satellite networks to remain competitive.

Accessibility Issues

Recent reports indicate that over 42 million Americans still lack access to high-speed internet, a significant issue impacting their ability to stream content, work remotely, and perform other online activities effectively. This gap highlights the ongoing need for infrastructure improvements and broader accessibility initiatives. To understand more about the differences in internet connectivity, check out Evaluating Your Options: DSL, Cable, Satellite, and Fiber Internet.

Rural Digital Opportunity Fund

The FCC's Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, now exceeding $20 billion, continues to be a pivotal initiative aimed at bringing faster internet to underserved areas across the United States. This fund is expected to create jobs, enhance opportunities, and improve internet access for millions of Americans, significantly impacting rural communities. Learn more about What Internet Speed is Right for You?.

Spectrum Service Disruption

Spectrum recently experienced a significant service outage affecting internet, television, and phone services in several Northeast states due to severe weather conditions. This outage left many customers without connectivity over the weekend, underscoring the importance of robust infrastructure to handle extreme weather events. For tips on improving your internet speed, visit How to Increase Your Internet Speed.

Additional Developments

Advancements in Fiber Optic Technology

  • New Deployments: Companies like AT&T and Verizon are expanding their fiber optic networks, offering faster and more reliable internet connections. Fiber optic internet is now capable of delivering speeds up to 2 Gbps, making it one of the fastest options available.
  • Increased Speeds: With advancements in technology, fiber optic internet offers incredibly fast speeds and excellent bandwidth, though it remains limited in availability and can be expensive for the fastest options.

5G and Its Impact on Broadband

  • Wider Reach: 5G technology is gradually rolling out, providing faster internet speeds and lower latency, particularly beneficial for urban areas.
  • Future Prospects: As 5G networks expand, they are expected to complement existing broadband infrastructure, offering high-speed internet even in densely populated areas. Discover the Success and Future of High-Speed Internet.

Consumer Advocacy and Rights

  • Net Neutrality: The debate over net neutrality continues, with consumer advocacy groups pushing for regulations to ensure equal access to internet resources without favoritism.
  • Pricing Transparency: There is a growing demand for more transparent pricing from ISPs, with customers seeking clarity on fees and service terms. The FCC now requires broadband providers to display easy-to-understand labels showing prices, speeds, data allowances, and other essential details at the point of sale.

Conclusion

The broadband industry is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and performance. Staying updated with these developments can help consumers make informed decisions about their internet services.

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Satellite Internet Review

With advances in technology, the two titans of satellite internet service, HughesNet and Viasat/Exede, both released their premier latest and greatest satellite dishes in 2017.

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Satellite Internet Review
Satellite Internet Review

Satellite Internet Review

Introduction

Satellite internet is a viable option for those living in rural areas where traditional broadband services are unavailable. Providers like HughesNet and Viasat offer services designed to deliver reliable internet access to remote locations.

Key Providers

HughesNet

  • Gen5 Series: Offers consistent speeds of 25 Mbps across all plans, powered by the EchoStar XIX satellite.
  • No Overages: Users exceeding their data allowance experience reduced speeds (3-5 Mbps) without extra charges.
  • Top Rated: Rated #1 by the FCC for delivering advertised speeds.

HughesNet is well-known for its reliability and has been consistently rated high by users and regulatory agencies. Its Gen5 series provides a steady 25 Mbps speed, which is adequate for most household needs like streaming, browsing, and video calls. One of its significant advantages is the lack of overage charges. If you exceed your data allowance, your speed will be reduced, but you won't face additional fees.

Viasat (Exede)

  • Viasat-2 Dish: Provides speeds up to 100 Mbps in select areas, making it suitable for high-bandwidth activities.
  • Unlimited Data Plans: Though pricier, these plans offer high-speed internet with generous data limits.

Viasat offers higher speeds in select areas, with its Viasat-2 satellite providing up to 100 Mbps. This makes it suitable for more data-intensive activities like HD streaming and large file downloads. Viasat's unlimited data plans are more expensive but cater to users with higher data needs, ensuring that they can stay connected without worrying about hitting a data cap.

Benefits of Satellite Internet

  • Wide Coverage: Available in areas where cable or fiber-optic internet is not.
  • Stable Pricing: Providers typically offer fixed rates for up to two years, helping users manage costs.
  • Vacation Mode: Allows users to suspend service for up to six months, ideal for secondary homes.

Satellite internet's most significant advantage is its coverage. It can reach areas that traditional wired services cannot, making it indispensable for rural and remote regions. The stable pricing ensures that users are not surprised by sudden price hikes, and the vacation mode is perfect for those who use the service seasonally, allowing them to pause their service without canceling it entirely.

Costs and Equipment

  • Monthly Costs: Plans generally range from $60 to $150, varying by speed and data limits.
  • Equipment Fees: Typically around $10 per month, with options for a one-time lifetime lease fee.
  • Installation: Often free with a credit check, installations are usually completed within a few hours.

Satellite internet tends to be more expensive than other types of broadband due to the technology involved. Monthly costs can vary significantly depending on the speed and data allowance. Equipment fees are another consideration, though many providers offer lifetime lease options to reduce long-term costs. Installation is straightforward and often free, but it requires professional setup to ensure optimal performance.

Performance Considerations

  • Weather Impact: Although modern technology has mitigated weather disruptions, severe conditions can still affect service.
  • Latency: Higher latency can impact real-time online activities, such as gaming or video conferencing, though it remains sufficient for streaming and casual browsing.

While satellite internet has improved, weather conditions can still impact performance. Heavy rain or snow can disrupt the signal. Latency is another issue; due to the long distance data must travel to and from satellites, there is a noticeable delay. This makes satellite less ideal for activities requiring real-time interaction, such as competitive online gaming or video conferencing.

Customer Experience

  • Reliability: Most users find satellite internet to be a reliable alternative, especially where other options are unavailable.
  • Support: Providers offer customer support to assist with technical issues and service adjustments.

Users generally find satellite internet to be a reliable solution, especially in areas without other broadband options. Customer support is crucial for resolving issues quickly, and both HughesNet and Viasat have dedicated support teams to help with installation, troubleshooting, and service questions.

Conclusion

Satellite internet offers a practical solution for rural areas, balancing cost and connectivity. While it has some limitations, like higher latency and potential weather impact, it remains a crucial service for those without access to other high-speed internet options.

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Is Satellite Internet Right For Me?

The world is no longer too big for the internet; no matter where you’re located on the globe, the World Wide Web is within your access. Even if you’re based in the middle of nowhere, satellite internet has you covered!

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Is Satellite Internet Right For Me?
Is Satellite Internet Right for You?

Is Satellite Internet Right for You?

Satellite internet offers a solution for those in remote areas, providing connectivity where traditional broadband isn't available. This technology uses a satellite dish, a ground station, and a satellite in space to deliver internet access.

Advantages of Satellite Internet

Wide-Reaching Coverage

Satellite internet can reach virtually any location, making it ideal for rural and remote areas where other types of internet are not available.

Reliable During Natural Disasters

Because it doesn't rely on ground-based infrastructure, satellite internet can remain operational during natural disasters when cables and towers might be damaged.

Potential for High Speeds

Modern satellite services, especially those using Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites like Starlink, offer competitive speeds. Starlink, for example, can provide speeds up to 150 Mbps​:citation[oaicite:10]{index=10}​​:citation[oaicite:9]{index=9}​.

Quick Deployment

Satellite internet can be quickly installed and deployed without the need for extensive ground infrastructure​:citation[oaicite:8]{index=8}​.

Disadvantages of Satellite Internet

High Latency

Satellite internet suffers from higher latency compared to other types of internet because data must travel long distances to satellites and back. This can affect real-time activities like online gaming and video conferencing​:citation[oaicite:7]{index=7}​​:citation[oaicite:6]{index=6}​.

Data Caps

Many satellite internet plans come with data caps, limiting the amount of data you can use each month. Exceeding these limits can lead to reduced speeds or additional charges​:citation[oaicite:5]{index=5}​​:citation[oaicite:4]{index=4}​.

Weather Interference

Bad weather, such as heavy rain or snow, can disrupt the satellite signal, leading to intermittent connectivity issues​:citation[oaicite:3]{index=3}​​:citation[oaicite:2]{index=2}​.

Higher Costs

Satellite internet can be more expensive than other broadband options, both in terms of monthly fees and the initial cost of equipment​:citation[oaicite:1]{index=1}​​:citation[oaicite:0]{index=0}​.

Who Should Consider Satellite Internet?

Satellite internet is ideal for individuals and businesses in rural or remote areas where other high-speed internet options are not available. It is also beneficial in areas prone to natural disasters, where maintaining a reliable internet connection is crucial.

Conclusion

Satellite internet provides a valuable service for those in hard-to-reach locations. While it has its drawbacks, such as higher latency and data caps, it remains a critical option for ensuring connectivity in areas lacking traditional broadband infrastructure.

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