Have you ever wondered which is the best router for satellite internet? Satellite internet service comes with everything, including a router. And ISPs recommend using the service with their router. But can you use a different router from the one your ISP provides? And if so, do all routers work the same, and are they all compatible? This article answers all these questions and more.
Table of Contents
- Best WiFi Router for Satellite Internet
- The Best Router for Starlink
- Best Router For HughesNet
- Alternative Routers For Satellite Internet
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Our Picks
- AC4000 WIFI—Up to 750+1625+1625 Mbps wireless speed
- Memory: 128 MB flash and 512 MB RAM
- Fast wifi performance: Get up to 1800 square feet of wireless coverage with AC1900 speed (Dual band up to 600 + 1300 Mbps).
- Recommended for up to 30 devices: Reliably stream videos, play games, surf the internet, and connect smart home devices.
- Wired Ethernet ports: plug in computers, game consoles, streaming players, and other nearby wired devices with 4 x 1 gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Wave 2 Wireless Internet Router, 600Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band, Works with Amazon Alexa.
- MU-MIMO Gigabit Router, Three simultaneous data streams help your devices achieve optimal performance by making communication more efficient.
Best WiFi Router for Satellite Internet
The best router is the one your ISP provides. Usually, such a router has all the features necessary to meet your broadband needs, including
- A sufficiently powerful core processor to accommodate speeds that are fast enough
- A large memory that allows you to use multiple devices and stream or game as needed.
- Antennas for amplifying sound
(Caption: the image of router antennas)
- Safety standards
Additionally, the router with your subscription package also meets the specific purpose manufacturers intended it for. For example, some routers are for RV use, and others are for residential. Today, Starlink even has a router specially built for use while driving.
(Caption: Image of mobile internet)
That said, sometimes, you may find that your network is not strong enough. Still, using a different router than the one your ISP provides is rarely the solution. Sometimes sluggish speeds are a result of obstructions like walls, trees, or other structures nearby. And if that’s the case, there are ways to extend your WiFi range.
Remember, although Starlink promises future gigabit speeds, currently, satellite internet speeds are generally slower. Also, manufacturers design routers to meet speeds of 1 Gbps or more. So it’s highly unlikely that you will exceed your router’s speed limit.
The Best Router for Starlink
As mentioned earlier, the best wireless router is the one your ISP provides. Therefore, the best router for Starlink is the one that comes with your Starlink kit. Here’s why.
- First, it has a core band of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. This is a powerful core processor capable of accommodating fast speeds.
- Secondly, its memory can accommodate multiple users. And each user can run more off the router, doing more streaming or surfing.
- Also, it has a protocol of 802.11a,ac b,g, and n. These are IEEE WiFi technology standards that specify media access.
- Additionally, the Starlink router covers a significantly wide area with a range of about 185 m2 or 2,000 square feet. And if you need to extend the range, the router is compatible with up to 12 Starlink mesh nodes.
- Further, the Starlink router has a phased array antenna, which amplifies the sound.
Unfortunately, the Starlink router has only one ethernet port. But fortunately, you can use an ethernet adapter to enable you to plug in other devices.
Best Router For HughesNet
When you sign up with HughesNet, whichever plan you buy comes with a built-in WiFi modem that includes the modem and WiFi router. And while renting a modem may appear cheaper than purchasing one, it’s much more expensive in the long run. Therefore, it makes sense to want to purchase one.
Of course, the best router for HughesNet is the one HughesNet provides. But if you would rather purchase a different router, you must ensure it’s compatible with HughesNet. Also, you might consider factors like coverage and security.
Alternative Routers For Satellite Internet
If you’re looking for a different router than the one your ISP provided, here are some options:
TP-Link AC 1900
The TP-Link AC 1900 router has MU-MIMO (multiple user-multiple input, multiple output technology), also known as Wave 2 Wireless. That means it supports additional bonded channels, enabling it to serve multiple user devices.
Also, this router uses beamforming technology, a technique that directs signal transmission and reception toward a specific receiving device. The result is a boosted cell range and capacity, meaning a stronger signal.
It also has smart connect technology, with which users are directed to less congested bands. This feature allows you to enjoy optimized usage and better gaming or streaming experience.
Additional security features like smart parental locks, guest WiFi, and a VPN server.
(Caption: Image of parental lock)
NETGEAR Nighthawk X6S
This router is one of the fastest for media streaming. First, it provides a fast dual-band connection to up to 3,500 square feet, making it ideal for large homes.
Also, it has a Plex media player, through which you can find and access all kinds of media from one place, one app.
NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000
The NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 router has a fast dual-band connection covering up to 1,800 square feet. Also, you can connect up to 30 devices to this router. Additionally, the router has wired ethernet ports where you can plug in devices like game consoles or computers.
In addition to security features like smart parental locks and guest WiFi, this router has Netgear Armor, the world’s number one cybersecurity powered by BitDefender. Also, it has beamforming,
FAQs
Does Satellite Internet require a special router?
Yes, each satellite internet provider has their router. However, you can use a different router, although it must be compatible with the particular satellite internet service.
Is there a satellite booster for satellite internet?
Yes. A satellite booster helps extend WiFi coverage, transmitting the signal further. It’s necessary where there are obstructions like walls, trees, or other structures. However, it’s important to note that using a satellite booster does not make the signal any faster.
Can I use a different router with Starlink?
Yes, you can, as long as the router is compatible with Starlink. However, you will need a Starlink ethernet adapter.
(Caption: Image of ethernet adapter)
Conclusion
Now you understand better about the best WiFi router for satellite internet. While there are many routers in the market to choose from, it’s often not necessary to use a different router than the one provided by your ISP. Also, it’s no guarantee it will work as the alternate router may be incompatible with the service.
