Can I Get High Speed Internet with Dish TV?

DirecTV and Dish Network both use WildBlue, a third-party provider, to offer satellite Internet service. That means that the available packages are very similar. Both companies offer a basic package that includes download speeds up to 512 kilobytes per second, kbps, and upload speeds up to 128 kbps. Free phone support is included, along with five email address, free installation and free anti-virus software, as of June 2011. A second tier package offers faster speeds -- 1 Megabyte per second, Mbps, downloads and 200 kbps uploads -- and a top-tier package offers the fastest speeds and support for 10 email address. The top-tier package has download speeds up to 1.5 Mbps and upload speeds up to 256 kbps.

As of June 2011, satellite Internet packages through DirecTV or Dish Network start at $49.95 per month for basic service and run up to $79.95 for the top-tier packages. Despite using the same provider, equipment fees do differ between DirecTV and Dish Network. DirecTV charges a one-time equipment lease fee of $99 plus a $19.95 handling fee. Dish Network charges an up front equipment fee of $49.

A satellite Internet connection requires a small satellite dish that links to WildBlue's satellite network. You'll also need a WildBlue satellite modem to enable your computers to communicate with the satellite dish. Whichever company you go with, a professional installer will come to your home to install the satellite dish. Usually the installation is covered in the package cost.

Depending on the package you sign up for, you may be required to sign a service contract. This contract will state that you agree to continue paying for the satellite Internet service for a specific number of months. If you decide to end your usage before the end of the agreed upon time, you might be charged an early termination fee.