How Does Satellite Internet Work?

Step 1

A request for a Web page is sent from your computer to a satellite about 22,000 miles out in space. At this altitude, the satellite's period of rotation (24 hours) matches the Earth's, and the satellite always remains in the same spot over the Earth (geosynchronous orbit). Because Internet via satellite is so technologically advanced, this distance hardly makes a difference to satellite Internet speeds, even in rural areas. 

Step 3

The Website beams the information back along the same path to the NOC, then to the satellite, and then to your computer through your HughesNet dish and modem. Although the signal travels a great distance, there is only a fraction of a second delay during this transmission. This is similar to delay you may have experienced when using a cell phone. In most cases, latency isn't apparent while surfing online. Once technology is set up in your home connecting to the Internet via satellite is simple.

HughesNet^® leverages decades of experience in satellite technology and service with SmartTechnologies™, revolutionary enhancements to our satellite Internet service that let customers do more of what they want online without interruptions or running over monthly data allowances. SmartTechnologies are included with every Internet plan.

Features include:

• Shrinking Web data by up to 30% - so you can do more online and download more content, while using less of your data.

• Improving your satellite Internet speeds by pre-fetching bits and pieces that make up a Web page, so your Web pages load faster.

• Tools like the Usage Meter and Data Tokens allow you to monitor data and add more to your plan if needed.