Satellite internet vs Ground-based internet
When it comes to internet access, there are two main options: satellite and ground-based. Both have their benefits, but which one is better? Let's compare and find out!
Satellite internet
With satellite internet, your internet signal is sent to a satellite, which then transmits the signal back down to Earth. This is a great option if you live in a remote area where broadband isn't available or if you're on the move, like in an RV or boat.
Pros
- Available virtually anywhere, even in remote areas
- Has a high-bandwidth capacity, which can support many users
- Doesn't rely on any infrastructure on the ground
Cons
- Can be more expensive than ground-based options
- Can be slow due to the distance the signal has to travel
- Can be affected by weather conditions, such as rain or heavy cloud cover
Ground-based internet
Ground-based internet relies on physical infrastructure, such as copper or fiber-optic cables, to transmit the internet signal. This is the most common type of internet connection and is available in most areas.
Pros
- Generally more affordable than satellite internet
- Can provide faster speeds than satellite internet
- Is less affected by weather conditions
Cons
- Isn't available in all areas, particularly remote or rural areas
- Can be affected by physical infrastructure issues, such as cable damage
So which one is better? Well, it really depends on your individual needs. If you live in a remote area or travel frequently, satellite internet may be the better option for you. However, if you live in a more populated area with access to ground-based internet infrastructure, you may find that ground-based internet suits your needs better.
References:
- O'Brien, J. (2019). Satellite Vs. DSL – What's the Difference? [online] HighSpeedInternet.com. Available at: https://www.highspeedinternet.com/resources/satellite-vs-dsl [Accessed 7 Oct. 2021].
- FCC. (2021). Fixed Broadband Deployment Data - Jun 30 2021. [online] Available at: https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/maps/fixed-broadband-deployment-data-jun-30-2021/ [Accessed 7 Oct. 2021].