ENDS THIS WEEK: Extra $50 cash back for HughesNet!
Up To 75x Faster Than Dial Up - Available Anywhere - Always On Connection

Satellite Internet on the Go - A Guide for RVers and Truckers

Traveling long distances as an RVer or trucker often leaves little-to-no access to the Internet, especially in remote areas. Of course, limited Internet access is not ideal for today's long-distance traveler, which is why many rely on satellite Internet for reliable connections. If you've been considering satellite Internet for your next trip, now's the time to learn more.

What is Satellite Internet?

Satellite Internet is a service used in locations where cable and DSL Internet access is typically not available (i.e. rural areas). It's also useful for drivers like truckers and RVers who are frequently on the move and need a reliable Internet connection.

There are three basic types of satellite Internet systems: multi-cast one way, one-way with terrestrial return and VSAT. Multi-cast one way satellite Internet is used for IP multicast-based data, as well as audio and video distribution; however, most IPs won't work correctly with this type because it requires a return channel. One-way with terrestrial return is satellite Internet that requires a traditional dial-up connection to allow outbound data to travel through a telephone modem. While the outbound connection is slow, the return data delivers at broadband speed because it travels via satellite.

VSAT (two-way) is satellite Internet virtually connected on both inbound and outbound data. It is beneficial to truckers and RVers because it sends data out without the need for a dialup connection. When choosing satellite Internet, the mobile or portable VSAT is usually recommended.

How Satellite Internet Operates

When you use two-way satellite Internet, you can expect a similar experience to broadband Internet, except that a satellite dish will take the place of cables and telephone lines. This is great for travelers because they don't have the concern of talking and surfing at the same time.

Here is a basic breakdown of how satellite Internet operates:

1. Your computer sends a request for a webpage to a satellite.
2. The satellite contacts your chosen network (your service provider), which will then contact the website you've requested.
3. The website beams the data back using the same path and quickly reaches your computer.

It's pretty simple.

How RVers and Truckers Benefit from Satellite Internet

Satellite Internet is a popular choice with RVers and truckers for a variety of reasons. Here are a few to consider:

• Continuous Internet access: When traveling with a laptop, it's no secret that it only holds a wireless connection when you pull over and to tap into an unsecured connection. By setting up your own satellite connection, you can count on a reliable connection from your own secure network.
• Access to truck, rest and food stops: It is likely that as a frequent traveler you have a navigation system that offers points of interest (POIs) to help you find rest stops and more. However, the capabilities of the Internet can help travelers find even more locations in cities around the country.
• Access to backup directions: Again, if you're a frequent traveler, you probably utilize a navigation system to find driving directions to desired locations; however, the Internet provides great backup options for driving directions.
• Entertainment: Another great feature of satellite Internet is the ability to find great entertainment to keep everyone busy, including videos, music and games.

Satellite Internet can also benefit travelers who need to conduct their business on the road. By taking advantage of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), you can connect to your job while in transit.

Setting Up Your Satellite Internet Connection

When you're ready to set up your satellite Internet service, you will need to contact a reliable satellite Internet provider. The provider will send a certified installer to you to connect your computer to a satellite modem. The modem will then be linked to a satellite dish.

Since you will be traveling, the dish will likely be mounted on your roof (or wherever the installer decides is reasonable). Once installed, the dish will begin sending and receiving information. Usually by pressing a button inside the vehicle, the dish will then be activated, and in no time you'll be sending and receiving emails, Web pages, files and more over the Internet.

Connection Speeds

You can bet that with satellite Internet, your connection speed will be worlds faster than dialup, and just as fast as - if not faster than - cable and DSL. However, the actual connection speed you enjoy could range from download speeds of 500 to 1000 kbps and upload speeds of 70 to 128 kbps, varying greatly based on a few factors, including:

• Whether you have a clear view of the sky where your provider's satellite sits: If you don't have access to correct area of sky, your service could suffer signal loss or latency.
• If you're using the service during peak hours: Your upload speeds could be slower during different times of the day when system usage exceeds the service providers download threshold.

To learn what exact connection speeds you can expect, it's always good to check with your service provider.

Making Sure the Service You Choose Is Compatible with Your Computer

When setting up your satellite Internet service, it's also important to make sure you know whether the service you choose is compatible with your computer. For instance, some services may only be compatible with PCs; however, many are compatible with both PC and Mac.

Also, you want to make sure that the operating system you're using is compatible with the service. For instance, if you're working on a PC with Windows 98, you want to ensure that the computer meets the service's requirements so that it will function effectively. And if you're using multiple computers, you want to ensure that the service you use can link them all.

There's no doubt that satellite Internet can be beneficial to frequent travelers. So if you're an RVer or trucker looking for a reliable Internet connection while in transit, satellite Internet may be the right road to travel.