HughesNet Satellite Internet Service"Does It Deliver As Advertised?"HughesNet satellite internet service offers you a different option for high speed internet access. And, ... it doesn't matter if you live beyond the service area for cable or dsl internet networks. Anyone in the continental United States, with a clear view of the Southern horizon, can have broadband Internet service via satellite from HughesNet. But ... Is this service as good as advertised? Does it fulfill consumer expectations? I will give you my observation and recommendation at the end of this page. In the meantime, I'll present you with information about HughesNet satellite internet service and let you be the judge. So ...
What is HughesNet?HughesNet is a broadband service that uses a two-way satellite system to deliver Internet access at speeds comparable to dsl, without the need of a telephone line.It's not a substitute for fiber optic or cable internet service. Certainly, those networks offer faster service speeds and support advanced communications services. Instead, it's a consumer-grade broadband service that's most beneficial for areas where traditional landline internet services are not available.
At the present time, HughesNet satellite internet service can deliver broadband speed of up to 3 Mbps through its Home and Small Business service plans. This is pretty decent speed that's actually faster than competitors, WildBlue or StarBand.
HughesNet satellite internet service comes with a Fair Access Policy. It's designed to provide equitable access to the Internet and ensure more consistent service speeds for all subscribers. Each service plan comes with a maximum download threshold to prevent abuse of the system by over-downloading.
Download maximums are set above what HughesNet has determined typical users for each service level will usually download during a 24 hour period.
Will the HughesNet FAP Affect You?Possibly. It really depends upon your service requirements. If you regularly watch YouTube or other videos online, then you probably will exceed HughesNet's FAP download maximum of 200Mb in a 24 hr period with either the Home or Professional service plans. You may be able to avoid the FAP slap on the wrist, if you invest in the Pro Plus or faster service plans which include more than double the download limits.
In any event, if you exceed the download threshold for any HughesNet service plan, your internet service will be throttled back (restricted by slower service speed) considerably for a period of approximately 24 hours following the infraction. Some subscribers have compared the restricted service speed to that of ordinary dial-up. But, ...
Can HughesNet Help You?Yes, if you are located in an area not served by landline networks and you want broadband internet access and you are willing to accept slower throughput speeds at peak service hours. [usually between 4pm and 12am local time]Slow speeds may be the result of HughesNet's use of flow control to meet heightened Internet demand during peak hours. This mechanism helps to ensure bandwidth availability by temporarily limiting service speed on all plan levels.
Here's a closer look at the features, limitations, and bandwidth service speeds of Hughesnet satellite internet service plans.
Keep in mind ...HughesNet satellite internet service requires a 24 month commitment(early termination fees apply). The service also offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not happy, HughesNet advertises that you may cancel service without a penalty within 30 days of service activation.
For those not interested in buying equipment; or, who are looking for a cheaper alternative, HughesNet also offers an ...
Compare HughesNet service speeds with dial-up, and read about frequently asked questions regarding this service, including the minimum computer configuration requirements to receive service. Important FactsSatellite latency has an obvious effect on time sensitive applications when used in conjunction with HughesNet satellite internet service.Even though faster speeds are advertised for all of their service plans, HughesNet satellite internet service is not recommended for video streaming, as well as, sub-second, time sensitive internet uses.
Some time sensitive applications include - internet phone (VOIP service), real-time equities trading, online gaming, collaboration or conferencing events, such as, NetMeeting, video conferencing, and Virtual Private Networks.
This leaves little recourse for consumers but to avoid a service that does not live up to expectations. Is this how Hughesnet service can be characterized?
After visiting several forums online, where frustrated HughesNet subscribers have been venting their displeasure, it's apparent that the consensus among those subscribers is that HughesNet satellite internet service is frustratingly slow at peak service times.
Additionally, HughesNet subscribers are saying customer service is less than satisfactory because it's outsourced to foreign representatives who are insensitive to subscriber needs. The number of dissatisfied customers is eye opening.
RecommendationUntil changes are made that will result in consistent speed and reliable service at all times, I do not recommend HughesNet Broadband Service. Actually, ...HughesNet satellite internet service may not be for you, especially if you require consistent, fast bandwidth speed and need to use time sensitive applications (i.e. internet phone, VPNs, video conferencing, etc.) from remote locations. If this is your situation, there are other satellite services available today which support these applications and offer faster speed. One outstanding solution comes from iDirect technologies whose satellite systems deliver a service that minimizes the effects of satellite latency. This is business grade satellite service, and it can support all of the above mentioned applications without compromising speed and efficiency. iDirect service offers low service contention ratios and a small amount of dedicated bandwidth with shared connectivity solutions to ensure that service is available when you need it. It also includes a Service Level Agreement with a minimum network uptime guarantee.
In comparison, iDirect equipment and service cost more than HughesNet, but the service is very dependable. Learn more about iDirect satellite systems and dealers offering these services worldwide.
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