Satellite Internet for Students

Satellite internet can be a viable and effective internet access solution for students. This is particularly true for students that live in the country who are searching for rural internet options. However, there are a few benefits and considerations to keep in mind when considering satellite internet for students.

School and Student Online Activities Speed Needs

Online school and virtual classrooms are very streamlined and designed for ease of use and for varying computer resources and internet connectivity. Below are the most common tasks you’ll engage in as an online student and their internet speed requirements.

• Web browsing and email: These are the most basic online activities that students need to be able to do. They require a minimum internet speed of 1 Mbps.
• File sharing: While file sharing doesn’t require high speeds, we recommend a minimum internet speed of 2 Mbps for smaller-sized files. Larger files, like videos, may require higher speeds to ensure faster downloads or uploads.
• Video Conferencing and Virtual Classroom Sessions: Video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet have become essential for virtual classroom interactions. Internet speed requirements depend on the quality of the video and the number of participants. Our recommendations are:
  • At least 1-2 Mbps for standard definition (SD) video
  • At least 5 Mbps for high definition (HD) video
  • At least 25 Mbps for group conferences, but performance will also depend on others’ internet connections.
• Accessing Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Online Platforms: Accessing learning management systems (LMS) and other online platforms where course materials and resources are stored typically requires a minimum of 1-2 Mbps. Again, faster speed will be needed for more intensive tasks.
• Participating in Online Quizzes and Assessments: Online quizzes and assessments often involve real-time interaction, which we recommend at 1-2 Mbps for the best experience.

Advantages of Satellite Internet for Students

Satellite internet speeds are more than sufficient for the tasks and speed activities above. Most satellite providers offer plans anywhere from 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps. Starlink satellite internet offers up to 200 Mbps in some locations. 

Featured Satellite Internet Providers

Our Picks
Starting Price	$49.99/mo. – $149.99/mo.	$64.99/mo.	$110/mo.
Max Download	12 Mbps – 100 Mbps	25 Mbps	200 Mbps
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Our Picks
Starting Price	$49.99/mo. – $149.99/mo.
Max Download	12 Mbps – 100 Mbps
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Our Picks
Starting Price	$64.99/mo.
Max Download	25 Mbps
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Starting Price	$110/mo.
Max Download	200 Mbps
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Beyond internet speed needs, satellite internet also has these other advantages:

• Availability: Sometimes, satellite internet may be the only internet option, depending on where you live. This means that you can be an online student from almost anywhere in the country.
• Affordability: Satellite internet is becoming more affordable, especially for students. Check with your satellite internet provider; they may offer deals or discounts specifically for students.
• Performance: Satellite internet has come a long way in recent years, and it is the most widely available broadband internet. This means that students can use satellite internet for a variety of tasks, such as streaming videos, downloading files, and participating in online classes and forums.
• Reliability: Satellite internet is a reliable option for students that can be used almost anywhere as long as you have a clear view of the sky. While severe weather can have an impact on performance, it is less susceptible to outages and electromagnetic interference.

Disadvantages of Satellite Internet for Students

While it is the most available type of internet connection, it does have some drawbacks to keep in mind if you’re planning to use it as a student.

• Latency: It has a high internet latency, which means that there is a delay between your device and the nearest network access point. This can be frustrating for tasks that require real-time interaction, such as video conferencing or even online class forums.
• Data caps: Many satellite internet providers have internet data caps on high-speed data. Once that cap is met, you will still have connectivity, just at a much slower speed. Keep this cap in mind if you know you have an important upcoming test that may require a better internet connection.
• Weather: Satellite internet can be affected by weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and fog. This can cause your connection to slow down or even drop out completely.
• Service cost: Monthly satellite internet service prices have become more competitive and affordable in the last few years, but it is still more expensive per Mbps than almost any other internet connection type.
• Equipment costs: Satellite internet may require you to purchase or rent equipment such as a modem, router, or satellite dish. Professional installation may also be required, adding to the overall expense.

How Students Can Optimize Satellite Internet

Now that you know the drawbacks of satellite internet, there are things you can do to mitigate internet performance issues during critical online school tasks. Keep the following in mind if you have a test or presentation coming up where you’ll need optimal performance:

• Place your dish properly: The position of your satellite dish can have a big impact on your connection speed. Make sure that your dish is pointing directly at the southern sky and that there are no obstructions in the way.
• Place your WiFi router placement: Place your Wi-Fi router in a central location within your home to evenly distribute the signal. Avoid interference from other electronic devices.
• Use a wired connection: If possible, connect your computer to your satellite modem using a wired connection. This will give you the best possible speeds.
• Avoid peak times: Satellite internet can be congested during peak times, such as in the evening when everyone is online. If you can, try to use your internet during off-peak hours to get the best speeds.
• Update your firmware: Your satellite modem may need to be updated to the latest firmware to get the best performance. Check with your provider to see if there are any firmware updates available.
• Restart your modem: If you are having trouble with your connection, try restarting your modem. This can often fix minor problems.
• Bandwidth management: Prioritize bandwidth for essential tasks by limiting the use of bandwidth-intensive school and online course tasks. Check your router’s manual to configure prioritization settings.
• WiFi extenders: Consider using Wi-Fi extenders to enhance the coverage and reach of your satellite internet, especially if you have a large house or face connectivity issues in certain areas.

Satellite internet is a reliable solution for students to engage in online coursework, participate in video conferencing, and facilitate efficient file transfers. Knowing how to effectively utilize and optimize satellite internet for these activities, you can overcome the challenges it most commonly presents and thrive in your online education.