What is HughesNet Satellite Internet Service?

HughesNet is a high speed internet solution that uses satellite to provide everyone in the contiguous U.S. (with an unobstructed view of the southern sky) broadband-speed internet service. Unlike dial up, which uses your phone line, HughesNet uses satellite technology to give you a super-fast internet connection that is always on. Bottom line: with HughesNet, you are always on the internet and you can surf, download and open pages many, many times faster than you can with a dial-up connection.

Back to Top

Will I still need my dial up modem?

No. Because your HughesNet system uses satellite technology, no dial-up modem or phone line is needed. 

Back to Top

What speeds can I expect with HughesNet Satellite Internet?

With the HughesNet Basic service plan, you can connect to the Internet with maximum download speeds up to 1.0 Mbps, with typical upload speeds of up to 200 Kbps.

With the HughesNet Power 150 plan, you can connect to the Internet with maximum download speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps, with typical upload speeds of up to 250 Kbps.

With the HughesNet Power 200 plan, you can connect to the Internet with maximum download speeds of up to 2.0 Mbps, with typical upload speeds of up to 300 Kbps.

While maximum speeds are listed above, typical speeds during average usage are normally 60%-70% of listed maximums.

Please note: If you choose to use a VPN over your service, the above speeds may be reduced by as much as 50-75%. Also, it is not recommended to use HughesNet to run time-sensitive applications that require fractions-of-a-second user inputs (examples include real-time equities trading and twitch game play). 

Back to Top

What are the computer system requirements for HughesNet?

HughesNet works with both Windows and Macintosh operating systems. For maximum benefit from your HugheNet system, these are the listed minimum requirements:

• Windows 2000 PE or higher (including VISTA) or Mac OS 10.1 or higher, and
• Network capability (10/100 Ethernet pre-equipped)

Back to Top

I have a Mac. Can I use HughesNet?

Yes, if you have Mac OS 10.1 or higher, HughesNet is fully compatible. 

Back to Top

Can I use HughesNet to run a small network?

Yes, this is not a problem. Multiple home computers and laptops can be connected to a single HughesNet Internet connection. Please note that HughesNet does not provide network configuration, setup or support of any kind.

Back to Top

What if my computer did not come with a Network Interface Card (NIC)? What can I do?

In most cases you can install a new Ethernet 10/100 Network Interface Card (NIC). It is important to make sure your NIC is configured for "auto-negotiate."

Also, most computers today have more than one USB port. If you have at least one, you can also buy a USB Ethernet adapter. This is most likely makes for an easier install than installing a PCI network card. 

Back to Top

I have a laptop. Can I use my PCMCIA card adapter to connect to HughesNet?

Yes. All you need to connect your computer to the HughesNet modem is either a 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface Card or a PCMCIA adapter with an Ethernet connector.  

Back to Top

How long will it be until I have faster internet service?

Most new customers, on average, have their system installed within 2 weeks of their order. After placing your order today, a certified installer will be contact you within 5 day set an installation appointment.

Back to Top

Can the HughesNet-certified installer set up my home network?

This may be an option available through your installer and so you can inquire about this when you set your installation appointment. Please note that multiple users on a single sytem (a network) will most likely lead to degraded speeds. Also, HughesNet does not support, configure or maintain home networks.

Back to Top

Does Hughesnet service allow for running a VPN?

Yes, but VPNs do not work great over satellite. You may use a VPN with HughesNet plans, but you will likely experience reduced speeds by as much as 50–75%. You can restore your connection to full speed by simply disabling your VPN client when your session is over.

Back to Top