The internet has become a household necessity, with more than half of the entire world population connected to it. It has achieved some great milestones within a few decades, and what began as a network of a few host computers now connects people across the world. You can literally connect with someone living in Australia, India, or anywhere else in less than a few seconds.
The first prototype for the internet was known as the ARPANET which used a packet-switching technology to allow several host computers to connect with each other over a mutual network. Later in 1990, the World Wide Web was introduced, marking the end of the ARPANET era and the beginning of a modernized mode of connection. In 1997, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) approved the 802.11 standards for Wi-Fi, and from there on, the modernization sped up and never stopped.
Today, there are thousands of ISPs around, offering services even in distant areas making it possible for everyone to stay connected. There are different types of internet connections, each working in different ways and using different technologies. Fiber Optics, Cable internet, Satellite, and DSL are the broad categories of the types of internet connection widely available. Each has its own advantages and shortcomings.
In this post, we will be focusing on two of the most widely available internet types- Satellite and Cable internet. So if you have been in the dilemma of which one to choose for yourself, keep reading to make an informed decision.
Cable Internet
Cable Internet is a type of broadband internet service that uses the same infrastructure as cable TV; it uses coaxial cables to connect to your ISP via an underground cable network. These cables then connect directly with your house modem or router creating your own in-house Wi-Fi network.
The cable internet service is offered by many popular ISPs across the US. Xfinity Internet is an example of a cable internet service that offers its service in more than 41 states. This type of connection is faster than DSL offering speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Pros and Cons of Cable Internet
Following are some of the pros and cons of cable internet:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
The quality of the connection isn’t affected by the distance to the ISP |
Can get slower during peak hours |
|
Offers speed up to 1 Gbps |
Can’t work wirelessly without a router |
|
Offers symmetrical speed (Upload= Download) |
Higher-speed plans can be expensive |
|
Highly accessible |
|
|
Less expensive than fiber internet |
|
Satellite Internet
Satellite Internet is a type of service that uses communication satellites, usually geostationary satellites. This type of connection is independent of location and can be accessed globally. It is the best option for places where other internet options are not available.
Satellite internet works by beaming a connection from satellites in space to the satellite or dish on your house. So you will need a satellite in your house, which will then translate the signals through your router to beam the satellite Wi-Fi throughout.
Pros and Cons of Satellite Internet
Following are the major pros and cons of the satellite internet connection:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Available in most areas |
Installation fees and equipment can be costly |
|
Cost-effective as compared to other connection types |
Lower speeds than other types of connections |
|
Ideal for people living in rural areas |
Higher-speed plans can be expensive |
|
Lesser internet outages |
Usually has a higher latency |
|
No need for telephone cables or wires |
Vulnerable to weather conditions |
Which Option is Better for You?
After looking through the pros and cons of both types of connection, here are a few points to consider before making a final decision:
Your Internet Speed Requirement
Satellite internet offers lower speeds as compared to cable internet: The maximum speed you can get with satellite internet is 500 Mbps as compared to 1Gbps of cable internet. Also, latency is one of the main downsides of satellite internet. So if you are a professional gamer or someone working in a fast-paced environment, then look out for cable internet service instead of satellite internet.
Your Budget
On average, satellite internet service costs around $100/month whereas an average cable internet service costs around $50-$70/month. So while both connections offer sufficient speeds, cable internet will cost you a lot less.
Availability of ISPs in Your Area
Finally, it all comes down to the availability of service in your area. If you live in a rural area, or somewhere where cable internet service is either not good enough or isn’t available at all, consider satellite internet service instead.
Final Verdict
After reviewing both types of internet services, it is fair to say that cable internet is a better option than satellite internet service. But while cable internet offers more perks, the choice comes down to your speed requirements, budget, and the area you live.
