How to Boost Your Satellite Internet Speed in 2024 | Allconnect (2024)

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Satellite internet can be a great solution for getting internet in rural areas. But if your signal is slowing you down, we may have the solution for you.

Having trouble with your satellite internet speed and home Wi-Fi connectivity? You’re not alone. 30% of Americans say their internet is too slow. But before you throw in the towel on getting faster internet speeds, or spend more money trying to upgrade your service, check out our tips to help speed up your satellite internet connection right now.

Speed up your home internet and Wi-Fi

Often, your wireless internet router signal can be the culprit behind slow internet issues. Check out our suggestions on boosting your Wi-Fi signal and range. You can use the tips mentioned in that article to boost your Wi-Fi signal and internet speed at home whether you are using DSL, fiber or cable internet. (If you’re not sure what type of internet connection you have, we can help you find out.)

Why satellite internet is different

Satellite internet is a bit different than DSL, fiber and cable internet because it involves a dish outside the home. If you have satellite internet service, use some of the satellite-specific tips below to boost your signal and get the most out of your satellite internet.

How to get faster satellite internet today

1. Remove surrounding shrubbery or other obstacles

Trees and bushes growing around your satellite dish may affect your satellite internet speed. Anything from summer shrubs to snow piling up in the winter could block your dish from receiving satellite internet signals, which in turn slows down your internet speeds.

2. Add a satellite in-line amplifier

A satellite in-line amplifier could boost your satellite signal by enhancing the signal that runs along the line from your satellite dish to your home’s receiver or multiswitch. To boost your satellite internet signal, use a bi-directional, auto-gain amplifier and a splitter. An auto-gain amplifier can also lessen your internet latency and improve both download and upload satellite internet signals.

3. Move your satellite dish closer to your home

Just as satellite signals and Wi-Fi signals can weaken the further they travel, internet signal strength can weaken the further it travels from your satellite dish to your internet modem inside. If possible, move your satellite dish closer to your modem inside to raise your internet speeds. Ask your provider if your satellite dish can be safely placed on your roof, affixed to the side of your home or set up on your patio.

4. Ask your service provider if you need to reposition your satellite dish

Your satellite internet service provider should have set up your satellite dish to face the right direction. However, weather conditions such as high winds can cause a satellite dish to move out of the correct spot. You can check the position yourself by making sure your satellite dish points south (all satellites in the northern hemisphere should face south), but your service provider can confirm whether or not your satellite faces the correct direction.

5. Ask your service provider about switching satellites

Along the same lines, you may need to ask your satellite provider if you can switch which satellite your dish receives signals from. Many providers have multiple satellites orbiting the earth, which increases the chance of getting a good signal at home. One satellite may be better located for your dish than another, so ask your service provider if you can switch which satellite your dish is directed at to boost your satellite internet speeds.

6. Get a Wi-Fi extender

A Wi-Fi extender is a device you can add to your home network to extend your Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. If you are experiencing dead spots or slower service in certain areas of your home, a Wi-Fi extender can be a great way to boost your signal. Explore some of our favorite Wi-Fi extenders of 2024.

7. Consider switching service providers

You may only have one satellite option for receiving and sending signals. That satellite may not give you a good signal, though. If you ask your service provider about switching which satellite your dish is directed at and they can’t offer another option, consider switching satellite internet providers or, if other connection types are available to you, explore alternative internet technologies.

What speed am I getting with my satellite internet service?

To measure any improvements in your satellite internet speed, make sure to test your speed before and after making any changes. A great way to gauge your current internet signal is by testing your internet speed in different parts of your home.

If you notice your internet is significantly faster in your living room than in the basem*nt or in a second-floor room, you may want to consider moving your router or using another one of our tips to enhance your signal range. Let us know which of these tips helped you, or if you have other ways to speed up your internet signal by contacting us at our Facebook or Twitter pages.

Find other ways to get the most out of your broadband by following the Resource Center and signing up for our weekly Allconnect newsletter.

Troubleshooting satellite internet

Having problems with your satellite internet service? There are a few things you can try like resetting your internet equipment, repositioning your satellite dish or even contacting your ISP.

Learn more about troubleshooting internet issues.

Satellite internet alternatives

If other internet technologies, such as fiber, cable or even 5G home internet, are available where you live, it could be worth looking into. Satellite offers slower speeds than fiber and cable, but is sometimes the only type of internet available in rural areas. If you have the chance to explore alternative internet options, compare the different technology types below.

FAQS

How do I boost my satellite internet connection?

You can try repositioning your satellite dish, add a satellite line amplifier or add a Wi-Fi extender to your home network to boost your satellite signal.

Will a Wi-Fi extender improve my satellite internet?

A Wi-Fi extender can help extend your Wi-Fi signal throughout your home. If you are experiencing dead spots in your home, this can be a great way to try and fix it.

What are satellite internet alternatives?

You can explore other internet tech such as fiber, cable or 5G home internet if satellite isn’t working for you. Just keep in mind that not all tech types are available everywhere, so make sure you check your address before you choose a provider.