What Is Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT)?

VSAT is the advanced technology that provides internet access to the most remote corners of the world, beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial networks. VSAT terminals, quickly set up, act like smaller versions of satellite dishes that leverage satellites to receive and transmit broadband internet signals. While they have a clear view of the sky, VSAT internet can guarantee reliable connectivity and global coverage, reaching almost any place on Earth.

Whereas VSAT satellite broadband is one of the most optimal solutions for extending internet access to remote areas, it's important to be aware of its pros and cons to make sure this is the right choice for your business needs. Keep on reading!

VSAT Price: How Much Does It Cost? 

Compared to other technologies, VSAT satellite internet proves to be more costly due to its extensive network infrastructure, advanced ground equipment, and professional installation. Costs can vary from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Traditional satellite and cellular internet are generally less expensive due to more affordable equipment and monthly data plan costs. And yet if you strongly require more reliable high-speed internet access in remote areas, VSAT’s features can justify its higher costs 

  • Equipment

    Equipment costs depend on the system type (fixed, portable, or maritime), antenna sizes, and router features

  • Installation

    Professional installation costs may vary depending on your location and the setup complexity

  • Monthly service plan

    Monthly service plan costs depend on providers, bandwidth requirements, and chosen data packages

VSAT Satellite Internet Use Cases

  • Remote Businesses

    Businesses, located in remote areas, rely on VSAT connection for real-rime communication and fast data transmission

  • Maritime

    Maritime VSAT provides global coverage for vessels, enabling ship-to-shore communication, navigation, and vessel monitoring

  • Logistics

    VSAT enables transport means with real-time tracking, effective communication, and sound management

  • Energy

    VSAT provides energy infrastructures with real-time data collection, remote management, and improved decision-making

Advantages of VSAT:

✔ Global Coverage: While a VSAT antenna has a clear view of the sky, it can provide global coverage anywhere on Earth;

✔ Reliable Connectivity: VSAT is not prone to issues like cable cuts or natural disasters, which terrestrial technologies are vulnerable to. Thus, VSAT Internet provides a more reliable and consistent internet connection;

✔ Scalability: You can easily scale up your VSAT plan if your bandwidth or data requirements have grown to meet your changing business demands;

✔ Mobility: VSAT terminals are carefully designed for mobility and can be installed on any vehicle or vessel, delivering internet access on the go.

Disadvantages of VSAT:

✔ Latency: Since signals pass a long distance to and from satellites, VSAT internet is known for its higher latency compared to wired connections;

✔ Cost: The VSAT equipment, installation, and ongoing monthly service plans have higher costs than traditional technologies can offer;

✔ Limited Data Transfer: VSAT internet plans often have data transfer limitations, making it less suitable for transferring substantial data volumes;

✔ Technical Expertise: Setting up and maintaining VSAT systems might require some technical knowledge. Due to this, troubleshooting issues can be more challenging compared to other connections.

Why Does DROAM Not Offer VSAT Broadband?

Nowadays, Starlink has emerged in the arena as a potential competitor for VSAT terminals. Using low-earth orbit satellites, Starlink satellite internet from DROAM provides faster speeds, broader coverage, and appears to be a more cost-effective option for connection in remote areas.

With this new player entering the market, VSAT’s data transfer limitations, higher latency, and greater costs make it less attractive for bringing internet connectivity to remote businesses, especially for those who require fast high-volume data transmission with low latency.

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Which Alternatives Do We Recommend?

  • Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Internet

    Leveraging a network of low-earth orbit satellites, Starlink promises faster speeds, lower latency, and broader coverage compared to VSAT. It is well known for its high bandwidth and reliable connectivity with no data caps

  • Cellular Terrestrial Wireless

    If coverage allows, cellular terrestrial wireless (4G LTE, 5G) can be a cost-effective and flexible alternative to VSAT specifically due to better latency, faster download & upload speeds, and much lower costs
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