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Viasat Internet Features
Viasat offers several recognizable features, some unique for satellite providers. Here's a breakdown:
- Unlimited data (throttled after a certain point)
- Month-to-month plans
- Professional installation
- Optional TV and VoIP phone services
- Additional plans for enhanced customer service and internet security
Viasat Internet Availability
Viasat is among the top three satellite internet providers in the US. The company operates in all 50 states, serving approximately 257,000 customers and offering download speeds up to 100 Mbps (with a small number of locations seeing up to 150 Mbps under ideal conditions).
Viasat is available anywhere with clear skies, but it is typically best for rural locations. This means it is available in all major cities and locations, offering coverage for 99% of the US. To view alternative or additional providers, click your state below.
For more detailed comparisons and interactive maps, visit our Internet Service Providers Near You page. Alternatively, you can search by address on our Internet Service Providers by Address page.
Viasat Satellite Internet Customer Reviews
Viasat has an overall rating of 1.7 out of 5 stars, with a total of 10 reviews and ratings across the United States. If you'd like to submit a rating or review for Viasat, please click here.
Connection
Customer Rating
Satellite
(10)
For detailed reviews, visit our Viasat Internet Reviews page.
Viasat Internet Pricing
Viasat's internet plans vary based on your location and availability. Most people receive the “Viasat Unleashed” offer, which is its unlimited plan. In these cases, the monthly cost is about $100-$120, not including additional costs for equipment. Alternative, limited plans are rare to find, although you might experience a price variance of $20 (give or take).
Equipment leasing costs, which include the price of the satellite dish, are $15 monthly. This also includes a WiFi modem capable of accessing the satellite network. You can also choose to pay a one‑time $250 upfront (you then own the dish/modem), which is helpful if you know you'll be keeping the network for two or more years.
Optional costs include the following:
- EasyCare: This is extra customer support, which includes no charge for service calls and an annual dish relocation. It costs an extra $9.99 monthly (first 90 days free).
- Viasat Voice: Phone calls to 50 states with long-distance calling to Canada, voicemail, call waiting, and caller-ID services. Costs up to $35 with discounts for bundling with Viasat internet.
- Viasat Shield: An enhanced security system that tracks suspicious activity and defends against cyber attacks. It costs up to $8.99, which might vary depending on location.
- Dish TV: Comes bundled with Dish TV services, which you can learn more about on our information page.
Installation costs
Installation costs, which include the costs to set up your modem and mount your satellite, range from free (subject to credit check) or up to $300. Non-standard mounts (e.g., pole or under-eave) cost up to $75 extra. The installation costs for Viasat Internet can vary depending on several factors. The company offers different options to cater to the specific needs of its customers. The more complicated your installation, the higher it could cost.
For some customers, Viasat may offer free installation as part of a promotional offer. This means that you can get your modem and satellite mounted without any additional cost. However, it's important to note that this offer is not always available and may vary depending on your location.
It is worth mentioning that while the installation costs may seem high to some, they are a one-time fee. Once the installation is complete, that's all you need to pay.
Viasat data caps
Viasat does not have any data caps, meaning that it offers unlimited data. However, each plan still has a high-speed data limit of 850 GBs per month, meaning you'll be throttled once you exceed your contract's limitations. Like other internet service providers, throttling can also occur in response to high network traffic.
Viasat Satellite Internet Competitors
Viasat, as well as all satellite providers, compete with all ISPs across the US. This includes all DSL, fiber, satellite, and cable internet providers. To keep things focused, here is how Viasat compares to other satellite providers:
| Provider | Average Cost | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Viasat | $115 per month |
|
| HughesNet | $145 per Month |
|
| Starlink | $95 per month |
|
While this comparison couldn't include other popular providers, it's generally accepted that other kinds of ISPs outperform satellite on average. The only exceptions are some older DSL connections or fixed-wireless internet. Fiber, cable, and (most) DSL connections outperform Viasat in almost all cases. Read an in-depth comparison of the best satellite internet providers.
Viasat Frequently Asked Questions
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How fast is Viasat Internet?
- Viasat internet can reach speeds up to 100 Mbps, which makes it comparable to the fastest satellite provider, Starlink. Compared to other internet types, like fiber or cable, Viasat is considered slow.
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Is Viasat available in my area?
- Viasat is available in 99% of the United States, making it very likely that it's available in your area. However, if you live in a location with cable or fiber internet providers, you should generally pick them over Viasat in all locations. Rural customers benefit most from Viasat's services.
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Does Viasat require a contract?
- Viasat provides month-to-month contracts, allowing its users to leave the service whenever they want. However, when Viasat customers leave the service, they must return the rented equipment or face unreturned equipment fees of up to $250.
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How many satellite internet providers are there?
- There are three current satellite internet providers available in the United States. These are Viasat, HughesNet, and Starlink.
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Is Viasat available in cities?
- Yes, Viasat is available in all cities in the United States. However, those who have alternative internet options should generally choose these instead. Satellite internet tends to be much weaker than cable, fiber, and some DSL internet providers.
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Is Viasat fast enough for Netflix?
- Yes. Netflix requires internet speeds that vary from 2 to 25 Mbps per stream. You can avoid latency and lag issues by keeping your Netflix videos of lower quality.
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Is Starlink better than Viasat?
- Starlink is better than Viastat if you need mobile “roaming” internet, such as for a motorhome. Otherwise, the two providers offer remarkably similar services.