With everything that’s happening around the world, many people have shifted to hybrid and remote work setups. But for parents, especially moms, it has been a blessing in disguise as they can spend more time with their children without leaving the house. However, there’s one factor that could impact your remote work experience—the internet.
Having fast internet has always been beneficial for many of us, especially when it comes to accomplishing important tasks for school and work alike. As a work-from-home mom, it is essential for you to choose the best internet connection to help you finish your tasks as soon as possible.
In this article, we’ll help you understand the key differences between satellite and fiber internet to help you find the best type for your work-from-home setup. Let’s begin!
What Is Satellite Internet?
Satellite internet works by transmitting signals through satellites orbiting the globe with antennas on Earth. It’s the most accessible type of internet in the United States that services the entire country. While it’s not the fastest, satellite internet can deliver decent speeds to help you with your tasks.
The most significant downside of this internet type is its data caps. If your work requires uploading and downloading large-sized files, as well as frequent video conferences, you’re going to need a higher data allowance. Unfortunately, it will definitely cost you if you have satellite internet.
Nonetheless, if you’re working in a rural area where other internet types aren’t available, satellite internet is your best choice. Thanks to technological advancements, satellite internet continues to improve, so it’s a win for its users.
What Is Fiber Internet?
Fiber internet is currently the fastest internet as of writing. It has earned a reputation for its incredible speeds and stability. It works by transmitting data through optic cables made from multiple fiber strands, carrying information in the form of light.
Fiber internet is mostly regarded as future-proof because most internet providers claim that they do not need to upgrade the infrastructure but the technology instead, unlike other types of internet. The downside is it’s not as accessible as other internet types.
So, if you’re looking for internet for your work-from-home setup, we recommend you opt for fiber internet. Many providers, like AT&T, Xfinity, Verizon, and Spectrum Internet, offer fiber internet across the country, so make sure to check them out and see if they are available in your location.
Comparing Satellite and Fiber Internet
When working from home, it’s great to recognize the fact that you can have many fun things to do with your kids while working. However, it’s important to make sure that your internet is in its optimal condition to help you finish as quickly as possible to spend more time with your kids.
Reliability
Satellite Internet operates on a wireless connection, making it more susceptible to interference than cable or fiber internet, which is hardwired and can function more consistently. Unfortunately, its dependability may be impacted by severe weather phenomena such as thunderstorms, lightning, sunspots, and others. Obstacles like trees or buildings are another frequent issue because they can weaken and affect the dependability of your connection.
On the other hand, fiber internet has the advantage when it comes to reliability as it can withstand extreme weather conditions. It’s because fiber optic internet wiring is buried deep in the Earth’s surface. So, despite extreme winds, storms, or fire, you won’t experience internet outages.
Availability
As mentioned above, satellite internet is widely available because it doesn’t require cables and other infrastructure, unlike DSL, cable, and fiber internet. Also, because the signal is transmitted from outer space, it can be picked up anywhere, even in remote areas, as long as the user has a clear view of the sky.
With fiber internet, it is currently the least available internet type as its infrastructure is expensive to build. Fortunately, many internet providers are taking the initiative to expand their fiber internet coverage across the state. But for now, satellite internet is still the winner when it comes to availability.
Speed
In recent years, satellite data rates have increased significantly. Home satellite internet used to be incredibly slow in the past, with sluggish data rates of around 750 Kbps. Due to numerous developments, including the use of a greater capacity RF spectrum to boost bandwidth, data rates up to 100 Mbps can now be delivered, depending on the terminal and service provider.
Fiber internet speeds, on the hand, can easily exceed 1Gbps and beyond. It’s recommended for work-from-home moms to have this type of internet when their tasks require heavy bandwidth usage.
Pricing
Aside from its monthly service prices, satellite internet may have extra startup charges. The price of satellite internet is typically higher in most locations when compared to other internet service types that offer equivalent speeds.
Depending on the internet service provider, fiber internet can be a cost-effective choice. The price depends on the infrastructure already in place and the distance from the desired site to the terrestrial fiber optic connection.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to reliability and speed, fiber internet is your best choice for your work-from-home internet. But when you’re looking for reliability and accessibility, satellite internet is for you. In general, fiber internet is better, but satellite internet also has its unique advantages for your work-from-home setup.
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