Internet technology has come along way since it exploded onto the scene in the 1990s. It has changed how people communicate, do business and share information. For residents of rural areas, they can benefit greatly from satellite Internet service.

Cable, Broadband and DSL ushered in a new era in Internet technology, but many rural areas were left out in the cold. But while that placed some rural communities at a disadvantage, they are actually at an advantage because broadband service has limitations, especially in rural areas.

Satellite Internet technology offers price, speed and connectivity that are at parity or even better than other technologies. This is good news for rural communities that used to rely solely on slow-dial-up connections. Major satellite Internet providers offer coverage in 99% of the zip codes of the United States, making it accessible to virtually every potential rural user.

Some of the primary benefits of a satellite Internet connection include the uploading and downloading of data at broadband speed, 99% connection uptime, and the optimization for multiple users which can allow pooled access. Satellite Internet technology is advanced and has compatibility with Windows or Macintosh operating systems, just like the DSL and Cable counterparts.

In addition, the phone line is always free, because the connectivity is provided by a special modem and a satellite dish. There is no need to install Ethernet cables or invest in additional phone lines if you are a business in a rural area that is expanding its work stations.

In addition to the technological benefits of satellite Internet, rural users also have a range of competitive monthly charges, starting from $29 a month to $199 a month, depending on the degree of service and contract commitments that are available.

Other features abound for the rural Internet user who chooses satellite Internet service. For people engaging in e-commerce or remote business applications, security suites, domain parking fees, domain based e-mail servers and advance hosting are available. These features enhance the user's capabilities and can help expand business and home Internet connectivity. Residential users can get a static IP address for as little as $10 a month and $20 a month for commercial plans. Home users who are thinking of starting a web based business can easily upgrade to commercial-level service.

Satellite internet service offers a wide range of speeds for optimum service. Satellite Internet is quick to install and they all have 24 hour tech support which gives subscribers a peace of mind. In an area where speed counts, satellite Internet delivers. A large file or software program can download in 2 minutes compared to dial up which would require more than an hour to sometimes download a single photo or document. For many rural users, the benefits of Satellite Internet far outweigh the prices they pay for the services.

Rural customers have understood the reliability and benefits of satellite technology and have trusted it for their television connections for years. More and more rural users are signing up for satellite Internet services because of the different options and superior technology that it offers for home or business Internet connectivity.