How does satellite Internet work?

Step 1

A request for a Web page is sent from your computer to a satellite about 22,000 miles out in space. At this altitude, the satellite's period of rotation (24 hours) matches the earth's, and the satellite always remains in the same spot over the earth (geosynchronous orbit). Because Internet via satellite is so technologically advanced, this distance hardly makes a difference, even with rural Internet connections. 

Step 2

The satellite contacts the Network Operations Center (NOC) which locates the specific Website you have requested. 

Step 3

The Website beams the information back along the same path to the NOC, then to the satellite, and then to your computer through your  dish and modem. Although the signal travels a great distance, there is only a fraction of a second delay during this transmission. This is similar to the delay you may have experienced when using a cell phone. In most cases, latency isn't apparent while surfing online. Once the technology is set up in your home, connecting to the Internet via satellite is simple.