Is VSAT The Right Connectivity Solution For Your Business?

Very Small Aperture Terminal, or VSAT as it is referred to, is a satellite communication technology that allows users to establish reliable, secure, and high-speed communication with other locations around the world. Essentially, it relies on a two-way ground station that transmits and receives data from satellites. It is less than three meters tall, which is why it’s referred to as ‘very small,’ and is capable of both narrow and broadband data to satellites in orbit in real-time.

It is often used in locations that lack fibre optic cables or in businesses that need reliable, high-speed communication. A key reason why VSAT services are becoming more visible and popular is down to the fact that its small size allows it to be used for transportable, on-the-move, and mobile communications purposes – in addition to being used in stationary locations. It’s also considered more flexible than other connectivity options. 

Which all sounds impressive, but what does this really mean? Let’s explore a few of the key features of VSAT, which businesses should consider this connectivity solution, and end off with what Huge Connect’s take is on this technology.

Key Features Of VSAT

There are a number of features that make VSAT an excellent connectivity solution, particularly for businesses who can’t access fibre or operate in rural or outlying locations. Here is a look at these factors in a little more detail.

Reliable communication: VSAT is often used in locations that lack fibre, such as rural areas, or in businesses that need reliable, high-speed communication. It provides a secure and reliable way to transmit data and voice communications.

Versatile: VSATs are highly versatile and allow both narrowband and broadband data communication with satellites in geostationary and geosynchronous orbits. Due to their small size, they can be used for transportable, on-the-move, and mobile communications purposes apart from being used in stationary locations.

Suitable for a variety of applications: The ability of VSATs to be used for both fixed and mobile applications makes them suitable for a range of commercial as well as military applications.

Multi-megabit service: VSAT data throughput speeds have increased significantly throughout the years and now can provide multi-megabit service in downstream and upstream.

Small satellite dishes: VSAT uses small satellite dishes, or antennas, to send and receive digital data. The antennas are typically about one meter in diameter, making them much smaller than most other satellite dishes.

What Kind Of Businesses Use VSAT And Why

The VSAT features that we’ve unpacked are what make this solution suitable for businesses that need reliable, high-speed communication but can’t access other fast-speed, reliable options, like fibre. But let’s look at examples of this within specific industries. 

Examples of who could use VSAT and why:

Business or Industry	The Why
Rural Businesses	VSAT is often used in rural areas where there is limited access to traditional communication infrastructure. It provides a reliable and secure way to transmit data and voice communications.
Mining & Oil & Gas	These companies often operate in remote locations where traditional communication infrastructure is not available. VSAT provides a reliable and secure way to transmit data and voice communications.
Maritime & Shipping	VSAT is often used in the maritime industry to provide reliable and secure communication between ships and shore. It allows for real-time communication and tracking of ships.
Military & Government Agencies	VSAT is often used by military and government agencies to provide secure and reliable communication in remote locations.
Emergency Services	VSAT is often used by emergency services to provide communication in disaster-stricken areas where traditional communication infrastructure is not available.
High-Frequency Trading Companies	VSAT is often used by high-frequency trading companies to provide reliable and secure communication between trading centres.

The Huge Difference 

Over the past few years, Huge Connect has seen the sharp demand for Point of Sale connectivity, as well as these over-the-top requirements such as one or two voice channels, eMail and Internet, live stream CCTV systems, and other forms of a closed private Wide Area Network. Particularly for those businesses where no form of traditional broadband or other connectivity technology is deployed or accessible, like ADSL, Fibre, and Mobile Broadband.  

To that end, we have diversified our product and service offering in order to provide VSAT. For these businesses, VSAT has become one of the better alternative solutions for businesses that need to operate outside of the scope of traditional broadband connectivity. More than simply providing accessible connectivity, we focused on providing a more versatile and cost effective option. 

In short, the Huge VSAT aims to be a lifesaver solution. 

For starters, the Huge VSAT package offers a lower power consumption solution, so businesses in areas with frequent power shortages won’t strain their backup power. Additionally, Huge Connect has included free nighttime data, particularly useful for non-critical, high-end data transmissions, like backups which can be run at night. Not only does this allow for better transmissions and user experiences for all, but there is also the incredible cost saving. 

Another savings benefit is that this offering allows businesses to mix and match packages to suit their business requirements – without the additional cost to service.

Connect with us today and let us help you understand if the VSAT connectivity is right for your business.