For most people, choosing an internet service provider is simple. In many areas, the technology used to deliver services limits your choices. This is especially true in rural or out-of-the-way locations. If you’re in a place with a low population, service providers might not think it’s worth the costs to extend their services to your location.
Wireless internet is an excellent option for subscribers in rural areas. Rather than relying on expensive lines and cables to connect to the service, wireless internet providers use radio waves to deliver consistent and reliable signals to almost anywhere in the world. However, each wireless service is unique. How can you be sure you choose a provider that offers you all of the services and capabilities you need? These tips will help you decide which wireless internet providers are the best match for your location, budget, and style of internet use.
Satellite vs Cellular Wireless Internet Providers
In the world of wireless internet service, there are two methods providers use to carry signals between their service and the subscriber’s equipment.
- Satellite services place equipment in orbit around the Earth. Radio signals pass between the satellites and the subscriber’s equipment that carry the digital information that makes the Internet work.
- Cellular wireless delivery uses the same towers that carry your cellphone service. Digital data is converted into radio signals that are bounced through the air between towers. Once the data reaches the subscriber, their equipment translates the information into the requested files, pictures, or videos.
Both types of service depend on a wireless modem. This small piece of equipment serves as a middleman between the subscriber’s internet-ready device and the provider’s signal delivery equipment. The modem takes digital data from the user’s equipment and converts it into radio signals that can be sent over the air. Those signals are sent to the provider’s servers, which quickly search for the requested information. Once found, the signal is sent back to the subscriber’s modem, which converts the information back into digital data that can be displayed on a screen.
Both services are able to deliver internet services to most locations. However, there are important differences between satellite and cellular services. When deciding which type of service is best for you, keep these things in mind.
- The cost of keeping orbiting equipment functional makes satellite service a more expensive option than cellular wireless.
- Satellite signals travel through miles of atmosphere to reach the subscriber. The resistance from layers of clouds and changing weather patterns frequently disrupt signal delivery. Cellular wireless doesn’t have to compete with as many atmospheric elements, which gives users a more reliable connection.
- The distance between satellites and your location negatively impacts your internet speeds. The average satellite service delivers between 5 and 12 MBPS. With a similar cellular plan, subscribers can enjoy download speeds of up to 75 MBPS.
- The signals that carry information back and forth between satellites has a limited capacity. During times of high demand, users can experience difficulty staying connected or struggle with super slow connection speeds. Cellular wireless doesn’t have these restrictions.
For most rural subscribers, cellular wireless internet providers offer the highest speeds and most reliable connections at a cost-effective price.
The Truth About Unlimited Data
Many rural internet providers promise unlimited data usage. However, this isn’t always the great deal that it seems. Some service providers offer unlimited service but limit the amount of high-speed data your account can access during each period. When your limit is reached, you don’t lose the service. Instead, the provider will limit your signals to slower speeds. This practice, called throttling, is a common tactic in the world of wireless internet.
When you’re shopping for a service provider, be sure to ask about data limits and throttling before you sign. Ensure that you choose a provider that gives you truly unlimited access to the highest available upload and download speeds in your area, regardless of how much data you use each month.
Fixed Wireless vs Mobile Wireless
Wireless internet is a broad term that can mean several different things. Fixed and mobile wireless are both based on radio technology. However, each delivers a completely different experience.
- Fixed wireless uses a hardwired connection to bring internet service into the subscriber’s home. The addition of a wireless router makes the signal available to WiFi-capable devices in the area.
- Mobile wireless depends completely on radio technology to deliver internet service. With a portable modem, mobile wireless service can be used anywhere with a strong cellular signal.
Be sure you know exactly what you’re getting from your provider. If you travel frequently or like the ability to take your internet connection with you, mobile wireless may be the better option for you. However, fixed wireless services often deliver higher speeds and fewer service interruptions.
Choose KP Internet for Superior Wireless Connectivity
KP Internet delivers dependable wireless internet service to the East Texas area. Compared to other wireless service providers, our connections are a budget-friendly way for your whole family to enjoy their favorite digital media. Best of all, our plans include unlimited high-speed data at no extra charge.
Talk with us to learn how KP Evolutions can solve your internet connection problems.
