What is Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet is a type of broadband connection that uses satellites orbiting the Earth to deliver internet access to homes and businesses. Instead of relying on underground cables like fiber or DSL, satellite internet works through a dish installed at your property, which communicates with satellites in space.
This makes it an excellent option for people in rural areas or places where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited. Thanks to evolving tech, satellite internet providers today offer better speeds, lower latency, and more affordable packages than ever before.
How Satellite Internet Works
The process is simple but impressive:
A request from your device is sent to a satellite dish at your location.
The signal travels to a satellite orbiting Earth.
That satellite communicates with a ground station connected to the wider internet.
The data returns through the same path — ground station to satellite to your dish.
While this may sound slow, modern systems (especially those using low-earth orbit satellites) have significantly improved the speed and reliability of satellite internet.
Why Choose Satellite Internet?
Ideal for Rural and Remote Areas
For people living in locations without access to fiber or cable, satellite internet is often the only viable solution. It doesn’t rely on physical infrastructure, so it can reach virtually any address with a clear view of the sky.
Expanding Coverage
New players like Starlink have drastically increased availability, offering broadband-like speeds even in hard-to-reach places.
Reliable Backup Option
Even in urban areas, some businesses and users prefer satellite internet as a backup in case of network outages or emergencies.
Top Satellite Internet Providers in the UK and Beyond
Several satellite internet providers are now offering robust services to meet various needs — from casual browsing and streaming to remote working and gaming. Here are some of the most notable ones:
1. Fastbroadbandtv
Type: Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite
Speed: Up to 250 Mbps
Latency: 20–40 ms
Best For: Fast, responsive internet in rural areas
Fastbroadbandtv is the most talked-about name in satellite internet. With a rapidly growing network of satellites, it delivers high-speed internet to underserved locations with lower latency than traditional providers.
2. Viasat
Type: Geostationary Satellite
Speed: Up to 100 Mbps
Latency: 600 ms
Best For: Moderate use, streaming, browsing
Viasat is a long-standing provider offering reliable services in rural areas. Its plans are often more affordable than Starlink and suitable for general household use.
3. OneWeb (UK-based)
Type: LEO Satellite (Emerging)
Speed: Under development
Best For: Enterprise, government, rural coverage
OneWeb is a UK startup building a global satellite network to compete with Starlink. It’s currently focused on enterprise and government clients but is expected to enter the residential space soon.
4. HughesNet (Mainly USA)
Type: Geostationary Satellite
Speed: Up to 25 Mbps
Latency: 600 ms
Best For: Light internet usage in rural locations
While HughesNet is mostly US-based, it’s one of the most recognized satellite internet providers and offers a stable service for basic browsing and streaming needs.
Advantages of Satellite Internet
Universal Coverage – Ideal for remote homes, farms, cabins, or even moving vehicles.
Quick Setup – Installation can often be completed in just a few days.
Future-Proofing – With growing investment in LEO networks, satellite internet is becoming more competitive.
Freedom from Wires – No dependency on underground cables or fixed lines.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Provider
Before signing up, it’s important to compare satellite internet providers based on a few key factors:
Speed Latency – LEO satellites (like Starlink) are much faster and more responsive.
Monthly Data Caps – Some providers may reduce speeds after a data threshold.
Installation Costs – Dish and hardware can cost more upfront than traditional broadband.
Availability in Your Area – Not all providers operate in all regions.
You can check availability and compare offers right now on our Satellite Internet page.
Is Satellite Internet Right for You?
If you live in an area with no fiber or cable internet, satellite might be your best — or only — option. Whether you're a farmer in the countryside, a digital nomad in a mobile home, or simply living off the grid, satellite internet can keep you connected. Thanks to modern satellite internet providers, speed, performance, and reliability are no longer major concerns.
And if you’re not in a rural area? Satellite can still serve as a great backup connection for emergencies, business continuity, or traveling.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Satellite Internet
Satellite technology is advancing rapidly, making satellite internet faster, more accessible, and more affordable. With companies like Starlink and OneWeb racing to expand global coverage, the gap between satellite and fiber is narrowing. That means better options for more people — no matter where they are.
At Fast Broadband TV, we’re here to help you find the best deals from top satellite internet providers in your area. Visit our satellite page, enter your postcode, and start exploring the most reliable internet options available to you today.
