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Parv Jain

Why Fixed Wireless is a Better Choice Than Satellite Internet?

Updated: Jan 6


Why Outdoor Internet is a Better Choice Than Satellite Internet

When it comes to staying connected, we all want the best internet experience, especially in this digital age. Many of us think of satellite internet as a go-to solution, especially in areas where traditional broadband isn't available. But there's another option that's gaining attention – Fixed Wireless. You might wonder, why consider Fixed Wireless over satellite? It's simple. Fixed Wireless technology, offers several advantages. Firstly, it's known for being more reliable. Unlike satellite internet, which can be affected by weather conditions or obstructions like trees and buildings, outdoor internet tends to be more stable. Secondly, Fixed Wireless usually offers faster speeds. This means quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and better gaming experiences. And lastly, Fixed Wireless often has lower latency compared to satellite. This is crucial for video calls and online gaming, where every millisecond counts. In this discussion, we'll dive into why Outdoor internet (Fixed Wireless) is emerging as a better choice than satellite, changing the way we connect to the world.


Content

1. Fixed Wireless Vs Satellite Internet

2. Speed and Performance

3. Installation, Setup and Maintenance

4. Technology Behind Fixed Wireless and Satellite Internet

5. Cost Analysis

6. Optimal Scenarios

7. Conclusion


Fixed Wireless Vs Satellite Internet

When we talk about internet options, two types often come up: Outdoor Internet, also known as Fixed Wireless, and Satellite Internet.

So, what's the difference, and which one is better?


Outdoor Internet uses a Fixed Wireless system. This means it sends internet signals directly from a base station to a device at your home. It's like having a direct line to the internet. This method is usually faster and more stable. The biggest plus is that it's not affected by weather, which can be a big problem for satellite connections.


On the other hand,

Satellite Internet works by sending signals from your dish to a satellite in space, and then back to the main internet servers on Earth. While it's a great option in remote areas where other types of internet aren't available, it has some downsides. The signal has to travel a long way, which can make your internet slower and less reliable. Bad weather can also block or slow down the signal.


In most cases, Fixed Wireless is a better choice. It's faster and more reliable, and you won't see your connection drop every time there's a storm. So, if you have the option for Fixed Wireless in your area, it's usually the way to go over Satellite Internet.


Speed and Performance

Why does Outdoor (Fixed Wireless) Internet Outperform satellite Internet?

Performance of outdoor internet

When it comes to choosing between Outdoor Internet and Satellite Internet, a key factor to consider is speed and performance. Here's why Outdoor Internet often has the upper hand.


Firstly, let's talk about speed. Fixed Wireless provides a direct connection from a nearby base station to a device installed at your location. This direct path means data travels faster, making your internet speed quicker. This is especially noticeable when you're streaming videos, playing online games, or downloading large files. The connection is smooth and consistent, with less buffering and waiting time.

Speed test

Satellite Internet, while a good option in remote areas, tends to be slower. Why? Because the data has to travel to space and back! The signal goes from your satellite dish up to a satellite in orbit, then down to the main internet servers, and back again. This long journey means it takes more time for data to get to you, leading to slower speeds.


Moreover, Satellite Internet can be affected by weather. Heavy rain, snow, or even dense cloud cover can interrupt the satellite signal, leading to slower speeds or dropped connections.


In summary, for better speed and performance, Fixed Wireless is generally a superior choice over Satellite. It offers a faster, more reliable connection, ensuring a smoother internet experience.


Technology Behind

Describe how the Fixed Wireless Technology Works.


how the Outdoor Internet Works

Fixed Wireless is a clever way to connect to the Internet, especially in places where traditional cable or fiber-optic lines are hard to install. Here’s how it works, broken down into simple points:

  1. The Main Tower: It all starts with a tower, which is like a big internet transmitter. This tower sends out wireless internet signals. It's typically placed high up, such as on a hill or tall building, so it can cover a wide area.

  2. Your Home Device: At your home, there's a small device installed, usually on your roof. This device is designed to receive the wireless signals sent by the tower. Think of it like a TV device but for internet signals.

  3. Clear Line of Sight or Open Air Connection: A key thing for this setup to work is that there needs to be a clear path, or 'line of sight,' between the tower and your device. This means the signals can travel directly without being blocked by large obstacles like mountains or tall buildings.

  4. Converting Signals to Wi-Fi: Once your home device catches the signals, they are sent to a router inside your house. This router then converts these signals into Wi-Fi, which you can use to connect all your devices to the internet.

  5. Advantages Over Traditional Internet: One big advantage of Fixed Wireless is that it doesn't need underground cables. This makes it a great choice for rural areas or places where it's difficult to lay cables. It's also usually quicker to set up than traditional broadband, as it requires less physical infrastructure.

  6. Reliable and Fast: Despite being wireless, Fixed Wireless can offer a fast and reliable connection. This is perfect for everyday internet activities like streaming videos, online gaming, or working from home.

In short, Fixed Wireless is an effective, practical way to get connected, especially in areas where other types of internet are less accessible. It offers a good balance of speed, reliability, and convenience.


Describe how the Satellite Internet works.


 how the Satellite Internet works.

Satellite Internet is a unique way of getting online, and it works quite differently from your typical broadband or mobile internet. It's especially useful in areas where other types of internet connections are hard to find.

So, how does it work? Imagine the internet as a huge cloud of information floating around. To access this cloud, you usually need a physical connection like a cable. But with Satellite Internet, you connect to this cloud through space!

Here’s the process in simple steps:

  1. Your Dish: At your home, you have a small satellite dish, usually mounted on your roof. This dish sends and receives information to and from a satellite orbiting the Earth.

  2. To the Satellite: When you click on a website or send an email, the signal goes up from your dish to the satellite in space. This is a long journey, around 22,000 miles up!

  3. Back to Earth: The satellite then sends this signal to a ground station on Earth. This station is connected to the internet you're trying to access.

  4. The Return Trip: The ground station sends the website data (or whatever you requested) back up to the satellite, then down to your dish, and finally onto your computer.

Because the signal has to travel such long distances, Satellite Internet can sometimes be slower and less reliable than other types of internet. Weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can also interfere with the signal. Despite these challenges, Satellite Internet is a vital solution for people living in remote areas where there's no other way to connect to the internet.


Installation and Maintenance

How to Install Outdoor Device Or Fixed Wireless Devices?

Installing and taking care of a Fixed Wireless device or an outdoor device for your internet isn't too complicated. Here’s how it’s usually done in simple steps:

  1. Picking the Right Spot: You need to put your device somewhere high where it can see the tower that sends the internet signals, like on your roof. This helps avoid blocks from things like trees or buildings.

  2. Putting It Up: To install the device, you might need to fix it onto your roof or a tall pole. Sometimes, it’s best to get a professional to do this to make sure it’s safe and well-placed.

  3. Connecting It to Your Home: A cable will run from the device to a router inside your house. This router turns the signal into Wi-Fi for your devices to use.

  4. Regular Checks: Now and then, look at your device to ensure it’s not damaged, especially after bad weather.

  5. Handling Weather: The device is made to be outside, but you should still check for things like water damage or rust.

  6. Fixing and Upgrading: If something breaks or you need an upgrade, it's usually best to call a professional to fix or replace it.

  7. Be Safe: Remember, safety first! If the device is somewhere high, like on your roof, it’s safer to get professional help for installing or fixing it.

By following these steps, your outdoor device should work well and keep you connected to the internet smoothly.


How to Install Satellite Internet?

Installing Satellite Internet is a task that you can do on your own or with professional help. Here's a simple guide on how it's done:

  1. Choose the Right Location for the Dish: Find a spot for the satellite dish that has a clear view of the southern sky (in the Northern Hemisphere). This is important because the dish needs to point towards the satellite without any blockages like trees or buildings.

  2. Mount the Dish: Securely mount the dish in the chosen location. This could be on your roof, the side of your house, or even on a sturdy pole in the ground. Make sure it's fixed tightly so it doesn't move.

  3. Point the Dish Toward the Satellite: This is a crucial step. The dish must be pointed at just the right angle to catch signals from the satellite. Most service providers give you coordinates or a tool to help with this.

  4. Connect the Dish to Your Modem: Run a cable from the dish to the modem inside your house. This modem will convert the satellite signals into internet service.

  5. Set Up the Modem and Connect to the Internet: Connect the modem to a power source and your computer or router. Follow the instructions provided by your internet service to complete the setup.

  6. Test Your Connection: Once everything is hooked up, test your internet connection. You might need to adjust the dish's position a bit more for the best signal.

  7. Professional Installation Option: If this sounds a bit too complicated, you can always opt for professional installation. The service provider will send a technician to take care of everything.

Installing Satellite Internet is all about finding the right spot for the dish and pointing it correctly towards the satellite. With these steps, you'll be on your way to enjoying your satellite internet connection.

Cost Analysis


Fixed Wireless

Satellite Internet

Installation Fee

One-time fee: $100 - $350 (Promotional offers may reduce this to $50-200 or even lower)

One-time fee: $150 - $500 Promotions might occasionally offer free installation

Monthly Fees

  • Basic plan: $40/month to $80/month

  • Higher speed plan: $60/month to $150/month

  • Basic plan: $50/month to $100/month

  • Higher speed plan: $80/month to $220/month

Equipment Costs

  • Purchase Device: $200 - $300

  • Rental option: $10/month to $15/month

  • Purchase dish and modem: $300 - $500

  • Rental option: $15/month to $20/ month

Maintenance

Rarely exceeding $30/year

Potentially costing up to $100/year

Contract

Generally, there are NO Contracts required with fixed Wireless service

In most cases, customers need to sign at least a 2-year Contract

So, Which is Cheaper?

  • It depends on where you live and what deals are available.

  • Fixed Wireless is often cheaper to set up and maintain.

  • Satellite Internet can get costly, especially with equipment and higher monthly fees for fast speeds.

  • Remember, sometimes you pay more for better service or faster speeds.

Ideal Use Cases

Why Fixed Wireless is Ideal?

Fixed Wireless is a great choice for many people because of its unique advantages. Here's why it's often the ideal option:

  1. High-Speed Connection: Fixed Wireless usually offers faster speeds compared to traditional broadband or satellite internet. This means quicker downloads, smooth streaming, and better online gaming experiences.

  2. Reliable and Consistent: Unlike satellite internet, Fixed Wireless is less affected by weather conditions like rain or heavy clouds. It provides a stable connection, which is great for important online activities like video conferencing or online classes.

  3. Good Coverage in Rural Areas: For those living in rural or suburban areas, Outdoor Internet can be a better option than wired internet. It doesn't require extensive underground wiring, making it easier to set up in areas where traditional broadband might not reach.

  4. Lower Latency: Latency is the time it takes for data to travel between its source and destination. Outdoor Internet typically has lower latency than satellite Internet, which is crucial for real-time online activities like video calls, online gaming, and live streaming.

  5. Simple Installation: Setting up Outdoor Internet can be simpler and less invasive than installing traditional broadband. It usually involves mounting a small receiver dish or antenna at your location and doesn't require major digging or cabling work.

  6. Cost-Effective: In many cases, Outdoor Internet can be more cost-effective than other options, especially considering installation and maintenance costs.

  7. Flexible Plans: Many providers offer a range of plans and speeds, allowing customers to choose a package that best fits their needs and budget.

  8. Less Physical Infrastructure Needed: Since it uses radio waves and doesn’t rely on physical cables, it’s less prone to disruptions caused by infrastructure damage like cable cuts or dig-ups.

Fixed Wireless is ideal for those who need fast, reliable internet, especially in areas where traditional broadband is unavailable or unreliable. Its combination of speed, reliability, and relatively simple setup makes it a preferred choice for many.

Conclusion

When choosing the best internet, Fixed Wireless is often a better pick than Satellite, especially where regular broadband isn't available. Why? Fixed Wireless is usually more reliable. It doesn't get easily messed up by bad weather like Satellite Internet does. Plus, it's faster. You get quicker downloads and smoother video calls and games. This is because it uses a direct line from a nearby station to your house, unlike Satellite, which sends signals to space and back. So, for a stable and speedy internet experience, Fixed Wireless is a great choice.


FAQs

Q1: Which is faster, Fixed Wireless or Satellite Internet?

Fixed Wireless is typically faster than Satellite Internet. It offers higher speeds and smoother performance for activities like streaming, gaming, and video calls.


Q2: Can bad weather affect Fixed Wireless or Satellite Internet?

Yes, but Satellite Internet is more affected by bad weather like rain or snow. Fixed Wireless is generally more stable and less prone to weather disruptions.


Q3: Is Fixed Wireless reliable for work-from-home or online classes?

Yes, due to its stability and lower latency, Fixed Wireless is reliable for work-from-home setups and online learning, providing a smooth, uninterrupted connection.


Q4: Can I get Fixed Wireless in a rural area?

Yes, if you’re within the coverage area of a Fixed Wireless tower. It’s a great option for rural areas where traditional broadband is unavailable.


Q5: Who should choose Satellite Internet over Fixed Wireless?

People living in very remote areas where Fixed Wireless towers aren’t available might find Satellite Internet to be the only viable option.


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