What do you get in mind when you hear the term hotspot? So, to be a short and exact hotspot in terms of the internet refers to any wireless access point that provides internet services on phones, laptops, tablets, etc. whenever you’re on the go primarily using Wi-Fi technology through (WLAN) wireless local area network typically using a router to connect to the internet service provider. Let us know ‘Satellite Hotspots’.
Satellite Hotspots
There are an enormous number of advantages that satellite communication offers such as asset tracking, and emergency response and it makes sense to have a dedicated device to serve such purposes, but if we’ve to send an e-mail or make a phone call or maybe text a message in no network zone. That’s where satellite hotspot comes into play. So, now to answer the most diligent question;
What is a Satellite Hotspot?
A satellite hotspot is much like our home Wi-Fi router but unlike a router, it gets its internet connectivity directly from the satellite instead of a fiber or cable. A satellite hotspot is a reliable source of internet for people in rural areas where there is either no cable or cellular connection or the network is way too fluctuating and the device travels way too frequently to change networks with every changing location. A satellite hotspot creates a Wi-Fi hotspot from the satellite signal that the satellite hotspot device is connected to and then any handheld devices and others such as laptops and tablets can send voice, texts, and data to the base station from where it sends to the satellite network and finally out to the internet, over the phones, etc.
Now that you’ve had a brief idea about satellite hotspots, a series of questions will be rattling across your mind, what benefits do satellite hotspots have over fiber internet? Should we switch from fiber hotspots to satellite hotspots and et cetera? All these questions are genuine, given the fact that not very many people would be aware of the pros and cons of satellite hotspots. So, let’s give a shot at answering these questions one at a go.
- Satellite hotspots Vs Mobile hotspots
Satellite hotspots are beneficial to people living in rural, remote, or relatively unconnected areas where fiber internet connectivity or cellular connectivity is yet to settle. Since satellite hotspots do not rely on fibers or cables, they can be accessed anywhere across the globe. They prove to be handy for people who like to travel frequently and suffer connectivity problems along their ride. Mobile hotspots or internet is available wherever one gets cellular service or signal. For intensive use such as downloading and uploading, mobile hotspots work better.
- Data Speed
Data speed is the foremost snag between Satellite hotspots and Mobile hotspots. Data speed can be categorized into two aspects that are uploading and downloading data speed. The dependency of the data speed is mainly in the latency which is around 35-70 ms on mobile hotspots and around 600-1200 ms on the satellite system. The lesser the latency greater will be the data speed. Earlier satellite internet had a lot of issues such as speed fluctuations, buffering, etc. but recent advancements have expressed that satellite internet speed will increase due to data traveling efficiency in the air.
- Speed on Location
Data speed varies from one location to another, and it is well known to everyone that satellite internet works wonders in open space and relays signals without any lapse in the system thus satellite signals reach remote areas. This makes satellite hotspots the best option to avail in remote or rural areas.
As already discussed, few of the advantages and disadvantages, now let’s discuss which satellite hotspots are best for use. There are several satellite hotspots that one can purchase to avail the facility of satellite internet at their fingers. Of all the options available, here’s the list of satellite hotspots best for use:
- Iridium Go!
The Iridium Go! uses the Iridium system that can be used anywhere in the world.
- Provides hotspots for up to five mobile devices at once
- Allows you to connect via text messaging, social networking, voice calls, e-mails, etc., and has capabilities of GPS tracking and sending SOS alerts.
- Comes in 4.5-inch by 3.25-inch by 1.25-inch hardware enclosure with a flip-up antenna
- Covers from pole to pole and is the largest and most reliable out-of-the-box system.
- Globalstar
Globalstar satellite hotspot gear is known as Sat-Fi. There are different versions of Sat-Fi and each version is a step above another.
- Sat-Fi is Globalstar’s original satellite hotspot built for fixed installations.
- Connects up to eight devices at one time and utilizes Globalstar’s fastest data speed.
- Provides crystal clear voice quality and no voice delay.
- Sat-Fi2 is the mobile version of Sat-Fi featuring a built-in lithium battery and an onboard satellite antenna
- Dust, water, and shock-resistant
- Built-in rechargeable lithium battery that lasts up to 28 hours on standby and up to 2 hours of talk time
- Connect up to 8 devices to your private satellite network
- The U.S.-based 10-digit phone number with direct dialing to 911 services
- Inmarsat iSatHub
It has been around for 15 years as the only network used by any company or individual
That requires high internet speed on land, sea, or air.
Conclusion
Satellite hotspots are getting so much attention these days from the sides of customers. There are different views on the speed and coverage of the hotspot one can choose the best according to their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a satellite hotspot right for us?
A satellite hotspot is a good choice for people living in the following circumstances:
- Need an internet connection in remote
- Don’t have a cable or 5G/4G/3G home internet connection
- What is the pricing of a satellite hotspot?
Pricing is the biggest weakness of satellite hotspots. At any given speed, you’re likely to pay more for satellite internet services than any cable, DSL, or fiber internet plan.
