The Ultimate Guide to Ku-Band Satellite Internet Service

The possibilities through the Ku-band VSAT internet services are numerous (and the credit also goes to the VSAT service providers), including VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol, also known as IP telephony), VPN networking, two-way video conferencing, weather information, internet (e-mailing, browsing), software update, remote maintenance of services and products (onboard management), etc.

The Ku-Band Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite system: 

 

With plenty of capability and capacity to cater for broadband service, Ku-band embraces the major heavily tree-shaded lanes worldwide. Ku-band satellites are either being readied for launch or have been launched into space at an altitude of 35,680 km. Each VSAT transponder is designed to deliver a limited coverage by its regional footprint. However, a backup satellite can be used to switch-over the signal from one satellite’s footprint to another.

 

General overview of Ku-band satellite service:

Max communication speed	1-2 Mbps*
Voice calls	VoIP
Frequency range	~14 GHz uplink and ~12 GHz downlink**
Service Coverage	Regional coverage provided by VSAT service providers

*Both Ku and Ka-band VSAT internet providers talk about providing a maximum communication speed of up to 100 Mbps. It is highly recommended to consult one of the leading VSAT service providers. However, the Ka or Ku-band argument is secondary. The primary concern among providers is to provide the airlines and military and maritime crews with uninterrupted and reliable satellite internet connectivity.

**Ku-frequency range is almost half the frequencies used by Ka (~30 GHz uplink and ~20 GHz downlink). The higher the frequency, the higher is the rain fade rate. Signal degradation is directly proportional to the amount of rain. Heavy rainfall can cause the Ku-band signal to attenuate at a ~1 dB/sec rate. On the other hand, Ka-band experiences a significantly high fade rate (3-5 dB/sec).

Combine the Ku-band VSAT internet features with the 24/7 technical support and customized services of one of the leading VSAT internet providers; you enjoy a stable, secure, and seamless internet without any hassle. The leading VSAT internet providers’ network architecture's three main components are system modularity, management, and scalability, allowing the teams to serve the clients with peace of mind.