Most Hughesnet® satellite dish installations take about 2-4 hours to complete. While satellite internet 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 unsure which plan is best for you, contact Hughesnet customer service and our customer service representatives will help you make the right choice.
Check Your Internet Provider’s 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 Permits and Permissions
In most cases, you won’t need a permit for internet installation. To make sure, ask your internet service provider if your municipality has any rules or regulations.
You’re more likely to require permission for satellite dish installation if you rent or are a member of a homeowner’s association. Check with your landlord or HOA for permission before installing a satellite dish on your property. Obtain all necessary approvals before you schedule an installation appointment.
Schedule Your Internet Installation
Contact the provider to schedule a satellite internet installation appointment. Choose a date and time that’s convenient for you. You need to be on-site on the day of the installation, as the technician will need access to the interior of your home or business.
Clear the Installation Area
You can make 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. If shrubs or trees block the dish’s view of the southern sky, they may require pruning or removal for the best internet signal.
Let Your Neighbors Know
While not overly disruptive, you can expect some noise and activity during satellite dish installation. As a courtesy, notify your neighbors you’ll be installing a satellite dish so they’re not surprised by the installation.
Backup and Disconnect Your Devices
Back up all files and data before your installation appointment. While there is little chance you’ll lose data during an internet installation, it’s best to take precautions. On installation day, 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 to the Technician
Be sure to be home on the day of your internet installation. Your technician will need access to the outside of your property while installing 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 and alignment of the satellite dish are important for both safety and performance issues when installing high-speed satellite internet.
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.
The satellite needs a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky for optimum performance. Your technician will advise you on the best location for your satellite. If you consider a dish location before the installer arrives, you can often reduce installation time.
Modem and router location is also essential. After installing the satellite dish, your technician will install coaxial cables and 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 home against an outside wall.
Satellite Dish Alignment
After mounting the dish in the best possible location, the technician aligns the satellite dish, 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, they perform two tests of your high-speed internet connection. 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. Choose which devices to connect before the installer arrives.
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 with 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 are 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 take 2-4 hours.
