Is Viasat a WiFi or internet?

When researching internet options, especially for rural or remote areas, you may come across Viasat and wonder: Is Viasat a WiFi or internet service? This is a common question, as the terms “WiFi” and “internet” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different things. In this guide, we’ll clarify what Viasat provides, the difference between WiFi and internet, and how Viasat fits into your home or business connectivity needs.

What Is Viasat?

Viasat is a leading provider of satellite internet services, delivering high-speed internet to homes and businesses across the United States and in select international markets[1][2][5]. Viasat uses satellites orbiting the Earth to provide internet access to areas where traditional cable, DSL, or fiber-optic networks are unavailable or unreliable.

Viasat offers a range of internet plans, including unlimited data options, fast speeds, and flexible contract terms. Their service is designed to connect users to the global internet, enabling activities like streaming, browsing, video calls, and online gaming.

Is Viasat Internet or WiFi?

To answer the core question: Viasat is an internet service provider (ISP), not a WiFi service. However, Viasat does provide equipment that enables WiFi in your home or business.

Understanding the Difference: Internet vs. WiFi

It’s important to clarify the distinction between “internet” and “WiFi,” as these terms are often confused:

• Internet: The global network that connects millions of computers and servers around the world. Internet service providers (ISPs) like Viasat, Comcast, AT&T, and others deliver internet access to your home or business.
• WiFi: A wireless networking technology that allows devices such as smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs to connect to your local network and access the internet without cables. WiFi is a way to distribute the internet connection within your home or business.

In other words, the internet is the connection to the outside world, while WiFi is the method by which your devices connect to your local network and, by extension, the internet.

How Does Viasat Internet Work?

Viasat delivers internet service via satellite. Here’s how it works:

1. Satellite Signal: A satellite in geostationary orbit (about 22,000 miles above the Earth) transmits and receives data to and from your home.
2. Satellite Dish: A dish installed at your home communicates with the satellite, sending and receiving internet data.
3. Modem: The dish is connected to a modem inside your home, which processes the data and connects to your local network.
4. Router: The modem is connected to a router, which creates a local WiFi network. This allows your devices to connect wirelessly to the internet.

With Viasat, you get both the internet connection (via satellite) and the ability to create a WiFi network in your home or business.

Viasat and WiFi: What’s Included?

When you sign up for Viasat Internet, you receive:

• Satellite Dish: Installed outside your home to communicate with the satellite.
• Modem: Connects the dish to your home network.
• WiFi Router: Creates a wireless network so your devices can connect to the internet without cables.

Viasat’s installation technicians will set up all the necessary equipment and ensure your WiFi network is working properly. You can connect multiple devices—such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and smart home gadgets—to your Viasat WiFi network.

Who Is Viasat Internet For?

Viasat Internet is ideal for:

• Rural and Remote Households: Where cable, DSL, or fiber internet is not available.
• Small Businesses That need reliable internet in areas with limited options.
• Travelers and RV Owners: Some Viasat plans are portable and can be used on the go.

Viasat is not intended to replace cable or fiber internet in urban areas where those options are available, as satellite internet typically has higher latency and may have data usage limits[5].

Viasat Internet Plans and Features

Viasat offers a variety of internet plans to suit different needs:

• Unlimited Data: Viasat Unleashed and other unlimited plans allow you to browse, stream, and connect as much as you want, though speeds may be reduced during network congestion if you exceed typical usage.
• Fast Speeds: Download speeds up to 150 Mbps in select areas, with most plans offering speeds suitable for streaming and browsing.
• No Contracts: Many plans, including Viasat Unleashed, offer month-to-month service with no long-term commitment.
• Professional Installation: Certified technicians ensure your service is set up correctly and your WiFi is working.

Viasat for Small Businesses

Viasat also provides internet service for small businesses, with features tailored to business needs:

• Fast Speeds: Up to 150 Mbps in select areas.
• Unlimited High-Speed Data: Available on select business plans.
• Business-Class Support: Available 7 days a week.
• Network Security: Active monitoring and protection against online threats.

Business customers can also opt for metered plans if they don’t need unlimited data, providing flexibility and cost savings[7].

Setting Up WiFi with Viasat

Setting up WiFi with Viasat is straightforward:

1. Schedule Installation: A technician will visit your home or business to install the satellite dish and modem.
2. Connect the Router: The technician will connect the modem to a WiFi router and configure your wireless network.
3. Connect Your Devices: Use the provided WiFi name and password to connect your devices to the internet.

You can connect as many devices as you like, and Viasat’s equipment is designed to support multiple users and devices simultaneously.

Viasat Internet vs. WiFi: A Quick Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Viasat a WiFi provider?

Viasat is an internet service provider that includes a WiFi router with your installation. The WiFi functionality is part of the service, but Viasat itself is not a WiFi provider—it provides the internet connection that WiFi uses.

Do I need to buy a separate router for Viasat?

No, Viasat includes a WiFi router as part of your installation. You do not need to purchase a separate router unless you want to upgrade or replace the provided equipment.

Can I use my router with Viasat?

Yes, you can use your WiFi router with Viasat if you prefer, but the provided router is usually sufficient for most households.

How many devices can connect to Viasat WiFi?

You can connect multiple devices to your Viasat WiFi network, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and smart home devices.

Is Viasat internet good for streaming?

Viasat offers speeds suitable for streaming, but data usage and network congestion may affect performance. Unlimited plans help ensure you can stream without hitting hard data caps.

Conclusion

Viasat is an internet service provider that delivers satellite internet to homes and businesses, especially in rural and remote areas. While Viasat is not a WiFi provider, it includes a WiFi router as part of your installation, allowing you to create a wireless network in your home or business. Understanding the difference between the internet and WiFi is important when choosing a service provider and setting up your home network. With Viasat, you get reliable internet access and the convenience of WiFi for all your connected devices.