What Exactly Are Satellite WiFi Hotspots?
Satellite WiFi hotspots are portable devices that use satellite technology to provide internet connectivity in areas where traditional land-based internet services are unavailable or unreliable. Hotspots work by connecting to satellites orbiting the Earth, which then transmit the signal to and from the hotspot.
What Are the Advantages of Satellite WiFi Hotspot Devices?
When venturing into remote or isolated areas, satellite WiFi hotspot devices give you the following advantages:
- Access to Internet Anywhere: One of the biggest advantages of satellite WiFi hotspots is that they can provide internet access virtually anywhere, even in remote areas where cellular internet access is patchy or non-existent. This makes them ideal for people who travel frequently or live in areas with limited internet connectivity.
- Easy to Use: Satellite WiFi hotspots are typically easy to set up and use, requiring only a few simple steps to connect to the internet. They also provide a WiFi signal that can be accessed by multiple devices, making them convenient for groups of people.
- Reliable Connection: Since satellite WiFi hotspots use satellite technology, they can provide a reliable internet connection even in areas where cellular service is poor or non-existent, particularly those that run off the truly global Iridium satellite network. Global connectivity makes them useful for emergency responders, disaster relief organisations, and anyone else who needs to stay connected in remote or challenging environments.
- Security: Satellite WiFi hotspots use encryption to protect data transmitted over the internet, which can help ensure the security of sensitive information.
- Portability: Devices like the Iridium GO! exec are exemplary portable satellite internet hotspot Being compact and portable means they are easy to carry in a backpack or install in a vehicle.
Limitations of Satellite WiFi Hotspot Devices
While satellite WiFi hotspot devices have several advantages, they also have some limitations that you should be aware of:
- Cost: Satellite internet services tend to be more expensive than traditional land-based internet services, and satellite WiFi hotspot devices are no exception. The cost of the device itself, as well as the data plan required to use it, can be too high for some people.
- Latency: Satellite internet services typically have higher latency, which can make certain online activities, such as video conferencing, more difficult. This is because the signal has to travel all the way to space and back, which can result in a delay in the transmission of data.
- Weather Dependence: Since satellite WiFi hotspots rely on a clear line of sight to the sky, they can be affected by adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow. This can result in slower speeds or even a loss of connectivity.
- Signal Interference: Satellite signals can be affected by other signals, such as those from nearby cell towers or other satellite systems, which can result in reduced signal strength and slower speeds.
Who Can Benefit From Using these Devices?
There is a wide range of people that can enjoy the usefulness and freedom of a hotspot device for internet, including:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts who venture into remote areas with limited internet connectivity can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to stay connected with the outside world.
- Boaters and Mariners: People who spend extended periods of time in boats either commercial or leisure cruisers can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to stay connected to the internet while on the go.
- Emergency Responders: Emergency responders, such as firefighters, police officers, and search and rescue teams, can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to establish communication and coordinate rescue efforts in areas affected by natural disasters or other emergencies.
- Rural Communities: People in remote countryside with limited or no access to traditional land-based internet services can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to access the internet.
- Corporate Travellers: People who travel frequently for business and need to stay connected to the internet can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to access the internet in areas with limited or no WiFi connectivity.
- Military Personnel: Military personnel deployed in remote locations can benefit from using satellite WiFi hotspots to stay connected with their families and access the internet.
Choosing the Right Satellite WiFi Hotspot Device
There are many things that affect which satellite WiFi hotspot is best for you, including budget, where you’re travelling and whether you will be stationary or on the move, conditions, and length of usage time. We always recommend the Iridium GO! exec satellite WiFi hotspot for its durability, portability, and amount of built-in features it comes with from two high-quality voice lines, to the integrated every-day communication apps such as WhatsApp, Outlook, and Messenger.
As always, our team of experts is here to help. So, if you need any advice about satellite WiFi hotspots, contact us via:
- Email: info@gtc.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 112 3919
