DirecTV Satellite Internet Information

DirecTV's satellite Internet service is powered by WildBlue, which is a satellite Internet provider. This service provides Internet service more than 30 times faster than dial-up, and it allows customers to connect fast, surf the web, download music and more without long waiting times. Because this service is satellite transmitted, customers do not need to have a phone line, and therefore it is available to more people nationwide than regular dial-up service or DSL.

With satellite Internet from DirecTV, customers are able to watch videos, download photos and shop online among other capabilities. Download speeds are as much as 1.5 Mbps with this service. Slower download speeds are available for less-expensive monthly fees. For instance, the 512 kbps download speed plan is cheaper than the 1.5 Mbps plan. This service is "always-on," so there is no long wait for connection as there is with dial-up Internet service.

In order to receive satellite Internet from DirecTV, customers must meet minimum computer requirements. For PCs, customers must have at least a 300 MHz processor, 128 MB RAM, Windows XP/2000, 100 MB hard drive free space and an Ethernet network card. Mac users will need a minimum of a 300 MHz processor, 128 MB RAM, OS X 10.4 or higher, 100 MB hard drive free space and an Ethernet network card. There are other recommended requirements, as well, which are available at DirecTV's website.

Ordering satellite Internet from DirecTV includes two separate costs. The first cost is the installation fee. The installation fee is an upfront cost for the equipment and professional installation of that equipment at customers' homes. If a non-standard installation is required for any reason, the fee may increase. The other cost is the monthly service fee, which varies based upon the plan of service selected. There are three different plans available, increasing in cost as the download speed increases.