Satellite Internet Vs. 3G

Wireless service providers offer 3G service for smartphones. These companies may also provide 3G broadband cards that allow broadband access for laptops and other portable computers. Satellite Internet, on the other hand, requires a modem and the installation of a satellite dish.

Users of 3G can expect Internet speeds between 144 kilobits per second (Kbps) and 2 megabits per second (Mbps). The speeds vary widely based on the carrier and coverage. For satellite connections, download speeds extend up to 2 Mbps and upload speeds extend up to 80 Kbps.

Satellite Internet is generally available for customers who live in remote areas where DSL and cable services are often unavailable. For portability, satellite providers can install Internet services on vehicles like RVs and buses. Mobile broadband is more portable than satellite broadband services because of the relative size of broadband cards and cellular phones.

Some people find that 3G services aren't available in some areas. In these cases, users may have to rely on slower mobile broadband options like the EDGE network, which is capable of speeds up to 200 Kbps. Satellite connections tend to be unreliable in bad weather such as severe thunderstorms. Satellite Internet connections may also be interrupted if something blocks the satellite dish's view of the sky. Some companies provide backup dial-up services in case of outages.

Prices vary widely based on the provider. Prepaid mobile broadband services for AT&T; and Verizon Wireless, for example, cost around $30 per week for 300 MB and $50 per month for 1 GB for computer access as of June 2011. HughesNet offers basic satellite service with download speeds up to 1 Mbps for around $60 per month, and 2 Mbps for $110 per month.

Satellite and 3G Internet services may require signing a contract or renting equipment. Some cell phone service providers offer broadband services for laptop users without a contract, but the equipment must be purchased separately. Satellite services limit how much data users can transfer per day. Some cell phone companies charge additional fees if the monthly data allotment is surpassed.