What is Viasat Internet?

If you live in a rural or remote area, you may have heard of Viasat Internet as a solution for getting online. But what exactly is Viasat Internet, and how does it work? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Viasat Internet—its technology, plans, benefits, and how it compares to other internet options.

What Is Viasat Internet?

Viasat Internet is a satellite-based internet service provided by Viasat, Inc., a global leader in satellite communications. Viasat delivers high-speed internet access to homes, businesses, and organizations in areas where traditional internet options like cable, DSL, or fiber are not available.

How Does Viasat Internet Work?

Viasat Internet operates using advanced satellite technology. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it works:

1. Satellite Dish Installation: A professional technician installs a satellite dish at your home or business, usually on the roof or a pole with a clear view of the southern sky.
2. Signal Transmission: The dish communicates with a Viasat satellite orbiting the Earth, sending and receiving data signals.
3. Modem and Router Setup: The satellite dish is connected to a modem inside your home, which is then connected to a WiFi router. This allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet wirelessly.
4. Internet Access: Once set up, you can browse the web, stream videos, make video calls, and more, just like with any other internet service.

Viasat Internet Plans and Features

Viasat offers a range of internet plans designed to meet the needs of different households and businesses. Here are some of the main features and options:

Unlimited Data

Viasat’s flagship home internet plan, Viasat Unleashed, offers unlimited data with no hard data caps. This means you can browse, stream, and connect as much as you want without worrying about overage fees. However, if your usage trends toward exceeding the “typical usage” of residential customers (currently around 850 GB per month), your speeds may be reduced during times of network congestion.

No Contract Option

Viasat Unleashed allows you to pay month-to-month with no long-term contract, giving you flexibility to change or cancel your service as needed.

Professional Installation

All Viasat installations are performed by certified technicians, ensuring your service is set up correctly and your equipment is optimized for the best performance.

Fast Speeds

Viasat offers download speeds up to 150 Mbps in select areas, though actual speeds may vary depending on your location and network conditions.

Live Customer Support

Viasat provides live customer support to help you with any questions or issues you may have.

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 underserved areas.
• Travelers and RV Owners: Some Viasat plans are portable and can be used on the go.
• Anyone Needing Reliable Internet: Those who want to stay connected for work, school, or entertainment.

Viasat Internet Plans and Pricing

Viasat offers several internet plans, with prices and speeds varying by location. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

Actual speeds and availability depend on your location and network conditions. To find out which plans are available in your area, visit the Viasat website and enter your address.

How Does Viasat Compare to Other Internet Providers?

Viasat is one of the leading satellite internet providers, but how does it stack up against other options?

Viasat vs. Other Satellite Providers

Compared to other satellite internet providers like HughesNet and Starlink, Viasat offers:

• Faster Speeds: Viasat’s download speeds are generally faster than HughesNet, with some plans offering up to 150 Mbps.
• Unlimited Data: Viasat Unleashed offers unlimited data with a high soft cap, making it suitable for most households.
• No Contract Option: Viasat Unleashed allows you to pay month-to-month with no long-term commitment.

Starlink, a newer satellite internet provider, offers even faster speeds and lower latency, but it is often more expensive and may not be available in all areas.

Viasat vs. Cable and Fiber Internet

While Viasat provides reliable internet in areas where other options aren’t available, it generally cannot match the speed and low latency of cable or fiber internet. However, for rural and remote households, Viasat is often the best available option.

Benefits of Viasat Internet

• Wide Coverage: Viasat is available in most rural and remote areas of the United States.
• Fast Speeds: Download speeds up to 150 Mbps in select areas.
• Unlimited Data: No hard data caps with Viasat Unleashed.
• No Contract Option: Month-to-month service with Viasat Unleashed.
• Professional Installation: Certified technicians ensure your service is set up correctly.
• Reliable Customer Support: Live support is available to help with any issues.

Limitations of Viasat Internet

While Viasat Internet is a great option for many, it does have some limitations:

• High Latency: Satellite internet typically has higher latency than cable or fiber, which can affect real-time activities like online gaming and video calls.
• Weather Sensitivity: Heavy rain, snow, or thick clouds can temporarily disrupt your connection.
• Data Throttling: On unlimited plans, speeds may be reduced during network congestion if you exceed typical usage.
• Equipment Fees: There are monthly equipment lease fees or a one-time purchase cost for the satellite dish and modem.

Viasat Internet for Businesses

Viasat also offers internet plans for businesses, with features tailored to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises:

• Prioritized Connections: Business plans receive prioritized service for faster speeds and minimized buffering.
• Persistent IP Addresses: Provided for improved reliability and easier network management.
• Reliable Support: Business customers receive dedicated support and fast installations.

Is Viasat Internet Good for Streaming?

Viasat Internet is suitable for streaming movies and TV shows, especially on higher-tier plans with larger data allowances. Streaming in high definition typically requires at least 5 Mbps, which Viasat easily provides. However, if you are a heavy streamer, you should monitor your data usage to avoid hitting the soft cap and experiencing slower speeds during network congestion.

Is Viasat Internet Unlimited?

Viasat Unleashed offers unlimited data with no hard data caps. If your usage trends toward exceeding the “typical usage” of residential customers (currently around 850 GB per month), your speeds may be reduced during times of network congestion, but you will not be charged extra or disconnected.

How to Get Viasat Internet

Getting Viasat Internet is easy:

1. Check Availability: Visit the Viasat website and enter your address to see if service is available in your area.
2. Choose a Plan: Select the plan that best fits your needs and budget.
3. Schedule Installation: A certified technician will install your satellite dish and set up your service.
4. Connect Your Devices: Once installed, connect your devices to the WiFi network and start browsing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Viasat Internet available everywhere?

Viasat Internet is available in most rural and remote areas of the United States, but not in every location. Check availability on the Viasat website.

Does Viasat Internet require a contract?

Viasat Unleashed does not require a contract. Other Viasat plans may require a 24-month agreement.

Is Viasat Internet good for gaming?

Viasat’s high latency makes it less suitable for online gaming, but it’s fine for downloading games and playing offline.

Can I use my router with Viasat Internet?

Yes, you can connect your wireless router to the Viasat modem if you need stronger WiFi or want to extend your network.

Is Viasat Internet unlimited?

Viasat Unleashed offers unlimited data with a high soft cap. If you exceed typical usage, your speeds may be reduced during network congestion, but you will not be charged extra or disconnected.

Conclusion

Viasat Internet is a leading satellite-based internet service that provides fast, reliable, and unlimited connectivity to homes and businesses in rural and remote areas. With professional installation, flexible plans, and no hard data caps, Viasat is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to stay connected where other internet options are not available. While it may not match the speed and low latency of cable or fiber, Viasat Internet is a vital service for millions of people across the United States and beyond.