If you live in the middle of nowhere, you might have very limited options for the internet. Although we live in the times, where technological advancements have bypassed human expectations but internet accessibility is still a problem in the modern world. However, if you are looking for a new internet provider, you are likely to be overwhelmed with the number of options available. The decision is quite tough to make but when it comes to an ISP, it usually depends on the service type.
There are plenty of affordable available when it comes to quality internet services and some of them include Mediacom, Spectrum and Cox Internet Service.
Whether it is DSL, cable, satellite or fiber, each service has its own pros and cons. You can find cable and DSL internet in most of the areas. The fiber internet is blazing fast but it’s quite expensive. Satellite, on the other hand, has many complications.
Therefore, we came up with a comprehensive guide that explains all the things you need to know about cable and satellite.
What is the difference between broadband and satellite internet?
Satellite internet, as the name suggests, is a wireless connection that involves three satellite dishes. The first satellite is installed at your property, the second at the ISP’s hub, and the third in space. In addition to the satellite dish, you need cables and modem to connect your devices.
Once you get connected, the ISP sends the internet signal to the space satellite which relays it to you. Every time you use the internet, the signal goes to the space satellite and then to ISP’s hub vice versa.
Broadband is an umbrella term and refers to any type of residential or business internet typically through wireline but there are wireless broadband networks available as well. The broadband connects you to high-speed internet with a complex chain of cables. A few examples of broadband internet include fiber, cable, DSL, etc.
Pros of Broadband Internet
Here are some of the pros of broadband internet:
Fast: Having a broadband internet gets you blazing fast speeds for all your home devices. With faster speeds, you can download all your favorite TV shows and movies with quite an ease. You don’t have to wait for hours for your console games to be downloaded and installed. Most importantly, you get you to play online games!
Reliable: Broadband internet utilizes coaxial cables and fiber cables to connect you with the internet that ensures constant and reliable internet.
Serviceability: The broadband service is offered almost in every location that has cable TV service, to say the least.
Service costs: The pricing varies from area to area. You can bundle broadband internet with a cable to avail of some extra discounts. Most of the plans are available on a one-year promotion. Fiber internet is quite expensive.
Cons of Broadband Internet
Security concerns: There are many security concerns when you are 24/7 connected to the internet through a broadband network. There is a high chance that someone might be able to hack the network and access your files and personal information.
It does not guarantee the exact speed: Even though the broadband connection increases your speed capability but does not guarantee the speed advertised. It is highly dependent on the servers and if these services are over-burdened, your internet speed suffers.
Pros of Satellite
The only reason people use satellite because of a lack of availability of Dsl or cable. Here are some of the pros of satellite internet:
Faster than dial-up: Satellite internet is faster than dialup and depending on what plan you get, it can be 10 to 35 times faster.
Handles high bandwidth: Since it does not rely on a server, no matter what bandwidth usage you have, satellite internet can handle it. Therefore, the quality of service stays the same throughout even in peak times.
Internet access in the most unlikely places: If you are camping in the wilderness and want to post an update on social media, satellite internet will help you in those unlikely places.
Cons of Satellite Internet
Quality of service: Although you get constant speeds with most of the satellite providers, the quality of service is poor. You get higher latency making it impossible to play online games.
Weather affects signal path: During a cloudy or windy day, there is a problem with the connection. A satellite must have a clear view of the sky.
Fixed Data caps: You get a limited bandwidth every month.
Service cost: Satellite internet is quite expensive. You have to bear the satellite cost.
Final Verdict!
Broadband networks will always be superior to satellite unless they develop a super-satellite that gives us high-speed internet, unlimited bandwidth, and lesser ping.