How does it work?

Overview

Internet via Satellite broadband Internet connection using DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting), and especially the DVB-S standard.

Broadband Internet access using a satellite uplink

Above, a broadband satellite Internet connection with landline also known as One Way Satellite Internet Access. In this situation, you must use a phone line with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The best is to register a flat-rate subscription with your ISP.

1. Your request is sent throught your ISP to the Satellite Operator using your landline.
2. The Satellite Operator retrieves from the Internet the result of your request (web page, image, video or music) and send it to the Satellite with its Uplink Station.
3. The Satellite broadcasts the datas throughout its coverage area and your computer receive the result of your request, wirelessly.

In an everyday use, it's fast enought to watch video et download large files. However, the use of certain applications is more difficult or impossible (online Video Games, P2P, to name a few).

Two Way Broadband Satellite Internet Access

Here you can see a model of a Two Way Internet Satellite Access. As you can see, compared to the previous figure, a landline is not required. The request is sent using a satellite dish (and a specific LNB - Low Noise Block Converter) to the satellite. The Satellite Operator processes your request and send it back to the satellite. The result of the request is then broadcasted on the satellite coverage area and so, to your computer.

Note: the explanations of this page are deliberately simple and do not use technical terms to address the greatest number.