Fast Internet: An Opportunity for Work in Rural Areas

Fast Internet: An Opportunity for Work in Rural Areas

Starlink proves to be an excellent alternative in areas where traditional connections such as 5G or DSL are unavailable. Starlink can very well replace speeds that offer less than 50 Mbit. For fiber optic or VDSL, Starlink is usually not a meaningful replacement. In rural areas, providing traditional internet services can be difficult and expensive. Starlink, with its satellite technology, bridges this gap and offers a reliable and often faster connection.

Since no physical cables need to be laid, the setup is convenient and uncomplicated. The ability to deliver fast internet speeds even in places with limited connectivity makes Starlink an extremely attractive option for anyone who does not want to settle for slow or unstable connections.

Starlink generally offers fast internet with low latency. In our experience, speeds range between 100 and 300 Mbits depending on location. This bandwidth makes Starlink a compelling option. The ability to deliver such speeds highlights Starlink as an advanced and flexible solution for internet needs. In terms of price, Starlink also operates in similar ranges, as mobile telecommunications with unlimited data plans.

Thanks to Starlink, it is now possible to work from places where there was previously little to no fast internet. The low latency of Starlink significantly contributes to making efficient remote work possible. Participation in online meetings requires low delay, or latency. Since many applications are now provided through the cloud, low latency also means short loading times, which makes work significantly smoother. In collaborative applications such as Miro, Google Docs, Excel Online, etc., latency is also crucial to ensure seamless teamwork. 

Generally, waiting due to slow internet is not only extremely frustrating but also noticeably hinders productivity. Bandwidth is of course also important. This comes into play when files need to be quickly uploaded to or opened from the cloud.

The comparison of the latencies of different technologies shows the diversity in this area. Here are the approximate average values for various technologies:

  • DSL in rural areas: DSL connections in rural areas can often be associated with higher latency, typically in the range of 40-70 milliseconds (ms). The infrastructure and distance to the exchange play a significant role here.

  • 5G: The fifth generation of mobile communication offers significantly reduced latency compared to its predecessors. The latency can be around 10-30 ms, depending on network coverage and load.

  • 4G: 4G networks offer latency in the range of 30-50 ms. They are faster than 3G but not as responsive as 5G.

  • 3G: The latency in 3G networks is generally around 50-100 ms. This technology is now outdated and significantly slower than its successors.

  • Starlink: Starlink, a satellite internet service, offers latency of 20-40 ms, depending on location and other factors. This represents an attractive option, especially in areas where other technologies are not available or efficient.

In rural areas, however, the latency of mobile internet is often higher, as point-to-point radio or DSL usually connects the towers. Fiber optic-connected mobile towers are mostly less available in rural areas. 

Effective Communication: Online Meetings and Collaborative Work

I have already had the pleasure of using Starlink multiple times for my work in the home office. The experience was consistently positive and the latency was always so low that I could easily participate in online meetings. Whether it was Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet, the connection was always stable. The video quality in Google Meet was even available in HD. This allowed me to distinguish my colleagues from one another, and the content on the screen sharing was clear and easy to see. During my use, I did not notice any interruptions or stuttering, which made communication smooth and efficient. This is how I envision working from home. And even better: I can choose the location with Starlink. Without having to suffer from poor infrastructure.

Are you looking for an internet solution that works even in the most remote corners of the world? In my experience report, I, an IT engineer, share my personal journey with Starlink. From the easy setup to the impressive speed and stability, even during storms, it offers a detailed insight into the potential of Starlink for rural internet use. Discover how Starlink is not only revolutionizing connectivity in remote areas but also providing a new freedom and flexibility in the world of work.