High Speed Satellite Internet Service is the answer for consumers and businesses that want a high speed Internet connection but unfortunately live outside the area of local DSL and cable providers.

Satellite Internet service provides you with a broadband connection that is much faster than dialup. Currently, most satelite ISPs offer their customers download speeds ranging anywhere from 768 Kbps up to 5.0 Mbps, which is very comparable to a standard DSL connection for the home or small office.

Are you in the market for a satellite Internet service provider? Want to know which one has the best services and the best prices? Here's a comparison of the top two providers - HughesNet and WildBlue.

General Information
Of all the satellite Internet service providers, HughesNet is the largest, with more than 400,000 customers in the U.S. alone. They've been in business for 31 years and have installed more than 1.5 million satellite systems.
WildBlue is the second-largest provider, with a 100,000 customers. They've been in business for 7 years, and have installed more than 100,000 systems.

Coverage
HughesNet service is available to anyone in the U.S. who has a clear view of the southern sky.
WildBlue uses what's called a spot beam signal so that many areas of the country cannot receive their service.

Equipment
HughesNet uses their own satellites and equipment.
WildBlue uses satellites and equipment from other companies.

Installation
HughesNet installs their satellite systems for free using a professional installer.
WildBlue's standard installation is free after a $99.95 activation fee and a $24.95 shipping and handling fee.

Internet Speed
HughesNet offers 6 high speed service plans with download speeds from 1Mbps to 5 Mbps (50 times faster than dialup service). Upload speeds vary from 128 Kbps to 300 Kbps.
WildBlue offers 3 high speed service plans with download speeds from 512 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps (15 times faster than dialup service). Upload speeds vary from 128 Kbps to 256 Kbps.

Email Accounts
Both HughesNet and WildBlue will give you 5 to 10 email accounts depending on which plan you choose.

Virus and Spam Protection
HughesNet and WildBlue offer virus and spam filters with their service.

Prices
HughesNet Internet service starts at $59.99 a month for their 1 Mbps service.
WildBlue charges $69.95 for their 1 Mbps service.

Technical Support
Both HughesNet and WildBlue offer access to 24/7 live technical support.

Guarantees
HughesNet offers a 30-day money back guarantee.
WildBlue does not offer a guarantee.

The Bottom Line
With higher speeds, cheaper service, free installation, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, HughesNet is the clear choice when it comes to satellite Internet providers.