As a larger part of life depends on online activities, satellite mobile WiFi is gaining traction.
People consider this technology limited to rural or remote areas like villages or maritime and aviation industries. But while satellite WiFi is more common in these areas, it’s also becoming popular in everyday settings.
If you want to know why or learn more about this technology, you’ve reached the right place. So, let’s explore what mobile satellite WiFi is, how it works, and its benefits, challenges, and options!
The Definition and Functioning of Satellite Mobile WiFi
Satellite mobile WiFi is anything but simple. So, let’s start with the basics. While you get Internet access through this technology, it’s nothing like regular WiFi or cellular networks. Earth-orbiting satellites receive dishes on the ground and WiFi routers and power cables in the picture.
For broadband satellite internet, you need a larger dish with antennas. On the other hand, the mobile version requires a portable satellite phone or compact terminal.
Sometimes, you might also need advanced technology like auto-aligning dishes and portable antennas. This can make the setup quite expensive. So, ask your provider about these things before purchasing.
Most providers give a kit with everything you need. Some even add a tripod for mounting the device.
Unpack the kit and look for an area directly under the sky. Trees, buildings, or other objects shouldn’t be blocking the dish.
After you’ve found the perfect spot, connect the router to the dish and switch the power on. Remember, regular WiFi can connect to any network, while satellite WiFi can only connect to your provider’s satellites. So, be patient and let the dish search for the appropriate satellite.
However, you won’t be able to use the connection until you configure it. So, do that before connecting your devices like regular WiFi.
But the question is, how do these satellites communicate with each other? They use radio waves to deliver high-speed internet instead of relying on cables or phone lines. The router converts these waves into usable WiFi signals.
It’s perfect for staying online in places that are hard to reach or where regular Internet services don’t work. However, you need constant electrical power to keep it running.
6 Benefits of Mobile WiFi Satellite That Outshine Traditional Networks
Since broadband and cellular networks already exist, it’s easy to question the need for another type of Internet. However, the following six benefits of mobile satellite WiFi might be enough to clear your doubts:
- Portable high-speed Internet: Mobile hotspots provide Internet access on the go. However, they can’t reach remote areas where Internet service providers and traditional cellular networks don’t exist. On the other hand, satellite WiFi only needs the sky and a power supply to work. Both are easily available, even in remote places.
- Emergency communication: Areas prone to natural disasters can also benefit from this technology since it’s portable. It also doesn’t require ground infrastructure.
- Scalability: You can easily scale satellite systems to meet varying user demands, from individual users to large organizations.
- Cost-effective for travelers: It’s no secret that satellite Internet is expensive as compared to other Internet types. However, this isn’t the case for travelers. Having a satellite WiFi hotspot anywhere they go saves them from buying multiple cellular packages. As a result, they save money in the long run.
- Quick deployment: Setting this technology is both quick and straightforward.
- Resilience: Since these networks don’t rely on ground infrastructure, they are more resilient against power outages and cable cuts.
Challenges of Mobile Satellite Internet You Need To Consider
Every technology has its pros and cons. Mobile satellite Internet is no different. So, now that you know the advantages, let’s also discuss its challenges so you have complete information before deciding.
While this technology provides global coverage, it’s also one of the most expensive networking options. There’s too much to consider regarding the equipment, fees, and installation.
On top of that, WiFi signals need to travel large distances to reach the device. As a result, you receive lower latency and slower speeds. This disadvantage increases tenfold when heavy rain, snow, or storms disrupt signals. Besides, not all devices are compatible with mobile WiFi systems.
You might also need to acquire special licenses to use this technology. So, check with your lawyer before investing.
Where To Find a Mobile Satellite WiFi Service?
We’ve explored the foundations of mobile satellite networks and their pros and cons. Now, you might be wondering where you can find this technology.
If that’s the case, Starlink is one of the most popular satellite Internet services. It offers different data plans depending on your travel destination as well as speed requirements. Therefore, it’s one of the most customizable options in terms of cost.
Moreover, it uses thousands of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites instead of relying on a few satellites in geostationary orbits. As a result, it provides faster speeds, lower latency, and much more!
Another viable option is Iridium Go! With this option, you can connect up to five devices. Its satellite WiFi device is so small that you can easily carry it in your backpack while traveling. Moreover, its initial setup is quite easy, so you won’t have to worry about calling in professional help.
Switch to Satellite Mobile Internet To Stay Connected in Remote Areas
Switching to satellite connectivity is a wise decision if you have the resources. After all, it provides reliable Internet access in areas that regular WiFi can’t reach. You only need a direct line of sight with the sky and a continuous electrical power supply. However, you can’t possibly carry a dish everywhere you go. So, opt for satellite mobile WiFi.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile WiFi Satellite
Now that you know the concept, let’s answer some frequently asked questions before ending this discussion.
What are the benefits of using satellite mobile WiFi?
The benefits of using satellite mobile WiFi include global coverage that extends to remote areas where traditional Internet isn’t available.
Moreover, its portability allows users to stay connected while traveling in vehicles or boats. Additionally, it doesn’t rely on ground infrastructure, providing reliable connectivity even during emergencies or challenging environments.
What is satellite mobile WiFi?
Satellite mobile WiFi is a type of internet connectivity that gives you a WiFi passport to anywhere. It uses satellites to provide access while on the move. This technology makes connecting to the Internet in remote or hard-to-reach areas easy through portable devices.
Travelers, maritime industries, and emergencies are areas where it outshines the Internet.
Can satellite phones provide WiFi?
Yes, satellite phones can provide WiFi through mobile satellite WiFi. These phones create a satellite WiFi hotspot with space satellites to provide Internet access.
These phones are top-rated in remote or rural areas where regular networks aren’t readily available.
