How good is satellite broadband in Ireland?
If you’re struggling to get fibre or mobile broadband in your rural location, satellite broadband could be the answer. Here’s what you need to know about satellite broadband in Ireland.
What is satellite broadband?
Satellite broadband is a way to access the internet when traditional connections like fibre or cable aren’t available. It works by installing a satellite dish at your home, which communicates with satellites orbiting the Earth.
This type of broadband is particularly useful in rural or remote areas where connecting to the national broadband network is difficult or impossible, providing a reliable and accessible internet connection where other options fall short.
What are the pros and cons of satellite broadband?
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of using satellite broadband compared with a more standard type e.g. fibre:
Pros
Cons
While traditional satellite broadband can’t match the speed or unlimited data that fixed-line plans offer, newer services like Starlink are closing the gap fast.
Starlink uses low-Earth orbit satellites to deliver speeds of up to 220 Mbps - similar to many fibre plans - with far lower latency than older satellite systems. However, upfront equipment costs are higher, and performance can vary depending on your location and network demand.
Who offers satellite broadband in Ireland?
If you live in a rural or remote area and fibre broadband isn’t available, several providers offer satellite broadband across Ireland. Each provider has different speeds, data allowances, and pricing, so it’s important to compare options before choosing the right one for your home.
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Digiweb A well-established provider offering standard satellite broadband plans. Suitable for general browsing, streaming, and light online activities.
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Irish Satellite Broadband Provides a range of plans for rural homes and businesses. Speeds are generally lower than Starlink, but plans can be more affordable for casual users.
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Rural WiFi Focused on connecting hard-to-reach areas, with smaller coverage zones. Speeds and data allowances may be limited compared to other providers.
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Starlink Ireland’s fastest satellite broadband option, offering low-latency connections and speeds that can rival full-fibre broadband. Ideal for households that need reliable, high-speed internet, even in remote locations.
Check each provider’s coverage in your area before signing up, as availability can vary depending on location.
Starlink: Ireland’s fastest satellite broadband
Starlink is a next-generation satellite broadband service from SpaceX that’s transforming rural connectivity across Ireland.
Unlike traditional satellite providers, Starlink uses a network of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which sit much closer to the planet’s surface.
This means faster speeds, lower latency, and a more stable connection, even in remote parts of the country where fibre broadband isn’t available.
Although it can be pricier than other broadband options, if you live in an area where other broadband types struggle, Starlink offers a premium, high-speed alternative that can rival many fibre and mobile plans for performance.
Starlink speeds and performance
Starlink offers download speeds of up to 220 Mbps, with recent speed reports revealing that most Irish users experience average speeds between 100 and 150 Mbps.
- Upload speeds: Typically range from 10–25 Mbps, depending on your location and weather conditions.
- Latency: Because Starlink’s satellites orbit closer to Earth, latency is much lower than traditional satellite broadband, usually between 20 and 40 milliseconds.
This makes it far more suitable for video calls, streaming, and even online gaming, which are often problematic on older satellite systems.
How much does it cost?
Starlink plans in Ireland start from around €35 per month, with no long-term contract and the flexibility to cancel at any time. The service is billed monthly and includes unlimited data usage.
The Starlink hardware kit costs around €299.
Although upfront costs are expensive, the monthly cost is on par with full-fibre or mobile broadband prices.
Starlink installation
Starlink has been designed for simple self-installation, making it easy to get connected without needing a technician. Once you receive your kit, setup can typically be completed in under an hour.
The Starlink app provides step-by-step instructions and helps optimise your signal strength.
Starlink setup
- Download the Starlink app to check for the clearest sky view at your location.
- Assemble the kit: connect the antenna, router, and power cables.
- Mount the dish: in a clear, open area (roof, garden, or wall mount).
- Power on and connect: to the router using the app to complete setup.
Troubleshooting
- Check for obstructions: Trees, buildings, or chimneys can disrupt signal quality.
- Secure your dish: Strong winds can affect alignment.
- Restart the router: reset often resolves connectivity drops.
- Use the Starlink app diagnostics: to identify signal issues or dish obstructions.
If you’d prefer a professional to handle installation, several Irish providers offer setup services, including:
- Smart Sat Connect
- Free Sat
- Novatel Communications
Compare Satellite broadband providers
Starlink leads the way on speed and reliability, but other providers like Digiweb, Irish Satellite Broadband, and Rural WiFi may offer more affordable plans.
If you’re weighing up costs, speeds, or data limits, the table below compares Ireland’s main satellite broadband options side by side.
| Provider | Avg speed | Latency | Hardware cost | Monthly cost | Data cap | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digiweb | Up to 20 Mbps | Not specified | €200 | €40 | 250GB | Standard satellite option for light use |
| Irish Satellite Broadband | 8–18 Mbps | Not specified | €200 | €40 | 8GB–50GB | Entry-level plans, casual browsing |
| Rural WiFi | Up to 150 Mbps | Not specified | Not listed | From €49.90 | Not specified | Nationwide coverage, affordable solution |
| Starlink | 45–280 Mbps | 25–60 ms | €299+ | €35+ | None | Rural homes needing high speed and low latency |
Prices and data allowances may vary. Always check the provider’s website for the latest information.
Alternatives to satellite broadband
While satellite broadband is a reliable option for rural areas, other broadband types may also be available depending on your location:
Check if fibre is available in your area to see if you can access faster broadband at a similar monthly cost.
What is the best satellite broadband plan?
Selecting the right satellite broadband plan depends on your usage, location, and budget. Consider the following:
Satellite broadband FAQS
Is Starlink available everywhere in Ireland?
Yes, Starlink is available nationwide. Every part of Ireland is covered according to the official Starlink availability map, making it a reliable option for rural and remote areas.
How do you install Starlink?
Starlink is designed for self-installation using the included kit and the Starlink app. Professional installation is also optional through approved installers.
How fast is Starlink internet vs 5G?
Starlink typically delivers 45–280 Mbps download speeds, with low latency of 25–60 ms. 5G speeds can vary greatly depending on location and network congestion, often ranging from 50–250 Mbps, but 5G coverage is limited in rural areas. Starlink provides more consistent speeds in remote locations.
Can you take Starlink internet anywhere?
Yes, Starlink offers a portable option called “Starlink Roam.” With Starlink Roam, you can travel anywhere in over 100 live markets. It includes two service plans:
- Roam 50GB: €40/month, best for infrequent and individual travel with low usage.
- Roam Unlimited: €89/month, ideal for RVers, campers, travelers, and working on the go.
Starlink Mini, a compact and portable kit, is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet on the go. It includes a built-in WiFi router, lower power consumption, DC power input, and max download speeds over 100 Mbps.
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