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HughesNet®

What You Need to Know for a Speedy Satellite Internet Installation

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Most HughesNet installations take about 2-4 hours to complete. While satellite dish installation seems straightforward, HughesNet installation professionals consider many factors while providing a speedy and successful installation. You can streamline the process by taking the following steps:

Select a Service Plan

Select a service plan that meets your Internet requirements. Different plans offer varying speeds and data limits. Choose the one that best matches your online activities. If you're not sure which plan is best for you, contact Hughesnet customer service and our customer service representatives will help you make the right choice. 

Check Coverage and Compatibility

Make sure your satellite Internet service provider offers coverage in your area. HughesNet’s fleet of telecommunications satellites offers reliable satellite Internet across the contiguous United States and Alaska. Sign up for HughesNet internet plans and as long as you have a clear view of the Southern sky, you'll have reliable Internet coverage. 

Obtain Necessary Permission

If you rent or are a member of a homeowner’s association, check if you need permission before installing a satellite dish on your property. Obtain all necessary approvals before you schedule an installation appointment. 

Schedule Installation

Contact the provider to schedule a satellite Internet installation appointment. Choose a date and time that’s convenient for you, and one where you will be on-site. 

Clear the Installation Area

You can make the process of installing a satellite dish easier by preparing for the technician’s arrival. Clear away any clutter or obstacles in the location where your satellite dish will be installed. Easy access to the installation site makes the process go smoother and gets you online faster. 

Notify the Neighbors

While not overly disruptive, you can expect some noise and activity during the installation process. As a courtesy, notify your neighbors about the upcoming satellite dish installation so they’re not surprised by the installation. 

Backup and Disconnect Devices

In the days before your installation appointment, back up all important files. While there is little chance you’ll lose data during an Internet installation, it’s best to take precautions. On the day of the installation, disconnect all devices from your current Internet connection, if you have one. Doing so allows for a smoother transition to your new satellite connection. 

Provide Access

Be sure to be home on the day of your Internet installation. Your technician will need access to the outside of your property to install the satellite dish, and inside to set up your router and Wi-Fi network. 
 

Satellite Internet Installation

Your Internet technician will complete the following tasks during the installation process:
 

Installing the Satellite Dish in an Appropriate Location

Proper location of the satellite dish is of great importance when installing high-speed satellite Internet, for both safety and performance issues. For safety, the technician will install your satellite dish away from power lines or other utility service lines such as gas or water. The dish must be four feet off the ground for the safety of young children and animals. 


For optimum performance, the satellite needs a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky. For example, if you think you have the perfect place for installation, but nearby trees could grow and obstruct the signal, your professional installer will offer you alternative options. If you put some consideration into dish location before the installer arrives, you can often cut down on installation time.


The location of your modem inside your house is also important. After installing the satellite dish, your technician will install coaxial cables and coaxial jacks to connect the satellite signal from outside the house to the modem. The best place for your modem is usually a central place in your house against an outside wall.
 

Satellite Dish Alignment

After mounting the dish in the best possible location, the technician completes a satellite dish alignment, using a signal meter to ensure you get the highest possible satellite Internet speeds. The technician tightens the dish into place and runs the coaxial cable jack and cables between the dish and your modem, sealing the area where they enter the building. 
 

Testing the Connection

Once the technician connects the modem and satellite dish, two tests of your high-speed Internet connection are required. The first tests the connections between the dish, the coaxial cables, the coaxial jack, and the modem. The second tests the connection between the Wi-Fi modem and the built-in router. 
 

Satellite Internet Wi-Fi Setup

Finally, the technician sets up your Wi-Fi network and connects two devices to the network, usually a computer and either a tablet or smartphone. If you choose which devices to connect before the installer arrives, you can speed up the Internet installation. 


Satellite Internet installation connects remote users across the United States with reliable, high-speed Internet. Check out HughesNet internet plans today!

 

 

Satellite Internet Installation FAQs

Can I install my own HughesNet satellite dish?

HughesNet requires professional installation to ensure proper satellite dish alignment with our telecommunications satellites. The Federal Communications Commission also requires installation by trained professionals for any satellite system that sends and receives signals. 
 

What is included in a professional installation?

HughesNet provides the following equipment and installation services:

  • The location, installation,and alignment of the satellite dish.
  • Connection of the satellite dish and modem.
  • Wi-Fi network setup and connection of two devices (extra devices connected for an additional cost).
  • Installation of a grounding block, with the system grounded to an NEC-approved grounding point.
  • All outdoor penetrations weather-sealed.
  • Physical equipment including satellite dish, modem, coaxial cable, coaxial jack, and dish mounting equipment. 

Do I need to be onsite during the installation?

Yes. Your technician will need your permission to install the satellite dish in an agreed-upon location, and will also need access to your building’s interior to set up your modem and Wi-Fi network.

How long does Internet installation take?

Satellite dish installation and Wi-Fi setup typically takes 2-4 hours.
 

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