Introduction
The satellite internet service provider that garners the most attention is Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Millions of consumers worldwide have access to the internet and other services through the Starlink satellite internet system.
According to the most recent Ookla internet speed analysis, SpaceX’s satellite service offers the fastest satellite internet available and even offers faster download speeds than fixed broadband in the majority of European nations. Other businesses need to catch up quickly if they want to compete, as there are more than 3000 satellites in orbit at the time of writing. However, other businesses and organizations have ambitious aspirations, one of which is even larger than Amazon.
How does it work
Satellite internet technology has been around for a while, and it includes sending data using radio waves that travel through space rather than cables. To increase internet speeds and lower latency, Starlink’s business SpaceX plans to utilize low-Earth orbiting satellites that travel closer to the globe during each orbit.
Your computer sends your data request to a satellite internet dish that is connected to your house (or a nearby location). The data request is broadcast to a satellite orbiting the Earth by the satellite internet dish. The satellite then transmits the request to the ISP. When you send your data back, the procedure is carried out in reverse, with data being transmitted from the service provider to the satellite, the satellite to the satellite internet dish, your network, and finally your computer. You reach the desired website.
Top competitors
One of your best options if you’re looking for a business that provides internet connection services is Starlink. Starlink is not the only business that provides the same services, though. Here are the top three Starlink rivals you need to know about.
Viasat
One of the most important international communications firms, Viasat was established in California in 1986 and offers services that empower millions of people. The relationship between Viasat and SpaceX is not great. That could be at least in part due to Viasat’s higher orbital operation than SpaceX. About 590,000 U.S. users received consumer broadband services from Viasat last year, compared to 500,000 subscribers for SpaceX.
A residential satellite internet service called Viasat Internet is committed to providing dependable, high-speed connectivity to the most isolated and hard-to-reach communities, including households in outlying or distant locations that cable companies can’t access. Viasat offers countrywide broadband that keeps up with your operations, regardless of what kind of business you run—a farm, warehouse, doctor’s office, restaurant, or something else entirely.
In contrast to other providers, the platform typically installs service three to five days after you place your order. For those who wish to completely replace their cable TV with video streaming, VPN, and online games that demand very low latency, satellite internet connections are not the best option. However, families who want to stream videos can use Viasat Internet.
OneWeb
OneWeb is a multinational communications corporation that offers high-speed satellite internet access all over the world. Where fiber cannot easily reach, it employs a Low Earth Orbit network to provide connectivity similar to fiber. The phrase “Responsible Space” is used by OneWeb to refer to a broad framework of values and industry standards upon which the business can create a shared commitment to sustainability in space.
OneWeb understands that the developing space sector presents a significant chance to increase communications, open up new avenues for economic growth, promote global education, improve rural health care, and advance environmental science.
On land, at sea, and in the air, OneWeb offers users the high-speed, low-latency connectivity they require. Every connectivity solution’s procurement, deployment, and management are streamlined by their digital goods and API. Users of OneWeb’s package will receive adaptable, scalable connectivity options for the best online experience.
HughesNet
One of the main satellite internet service providers in the US, HughesNet provides services that are available across the entire country. You might get more of everything you want with HughesNet Gen5, including quick speeds, unlimited data, and built-in Wi-Fi. With 25 Mbps on every package, it offers speedier speeds. Gen5 provides four service options with monthly data allowances ranging from 10 GB to 50 GB to better meet your individual needs.
All plans come with extras like built-in Wi-Fi, the Bonus Zone, Video Data Saver, and Unlimited Data with No Hard Data Limits. These plans provide inexpensive service options to fit any budget.
Conclusion
Although Starlink may be the fastest and most popular satellite internet option currently available, we should not disregard other options. Some of these providers have been present on the market long before Starlink existed, and they all have their pros and cons. If you are looking for satellite internet, make sure to do your due diligence and find the best fit for you.