What is satellite broadband?
Satellite broadband is a type of broadband that is set up in a household through the installation of a satellite dish. It provides broadband speeds of up to 30Mb.
Why choose satellite broadband
Although it is slower than other types of broadband, the major benefit of satellite broadband is that it can provide an internet connection to any home.
Because laying cables is not necessary for satellite broadband, it could be a good option for people in rural areas. Satellite broadband is also a good option for people who don’t require superfast broadband.
Who provides satellite broadband in Ireland?
One of the the main providers of satellite broadband in Ireland is bigblu - formerly known as Europasat. Their Superfast A10 plan is the cheapest one on offer, at €35.90 per month.
How do I compare satellite broadband deals?
When you’re comparing satellite broadband deals, often price will be the most important factor. Speed is generally considered the next most important factor when comparing broadband plans, so take a look at this too - although bear in mind that you won’t be able to get superfast broadband speeds with a satellite broadband connection.
You should also consider the contract length, and remember that - unlike other types of broadband - satellite packages will have a cap on downloads, so it’s important to take a look at these to make sure the plan you go with will suit for your broadband usage.
How does satellite broadband work?
Satellite broadband is set up at in your home through the installation of a satellite dish. The internet feed is then transmitted to the dish by a satellite.
How fast is satellite broadband?
The fastest satellite broadband speeds will generally only transmit speeds of up to 30Mb, so it is slower than fibre broadband, but can still be a good option for people who don’t have access to fibre or ADSL connections.
Can I get satellite broadband without a phone line?
Yes, satellite broadband works by transmitting an internet signal through a satellite dish installed on your house, so you don’t need to have a phone line installed for it to work.
Can I add TV or home phone to my satellite broadband plan?
In general, satellite broadband is chosen by households who don’t have access to ADSL broadband, which means that a phone line is not usually offered as part of satellite broadband deals. However, if you do want to opt for a phone and satellite broadband bundle, have a chat to your satellite provider, as they may be able to help.
The main TV providers - eir, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone - don’t offer satellite broadband either, so a TV and satellite broadband bundle will be hard to come by. However, you could opt for a standalone digital TV deal to go along with your broadband plan, or take a look at the likes of Saorview, or streaming services like Netflix or NOW TV.
