How do I top up my data?

VSAT is a broadband (shared) service, and the bandwidth available on the satellite transponder is a limited resource. Therefore, speeds will be affected by the number of users and type of utilisation happening on the network at different times.

The VSAT hub earth station makes use of cutting-edge optimisation techniques and various algorithms to ensure that each user experiences a commensurate and fair service. There may be times of the day when the network is busier than other times, which may lead to degraded speeds.

VSATs transmit data on smaller in routes and since the power of the transmission at the VSAT is lower than the power of transmission from the earth station, uplink speeds are typically lower than the download speeds. Users should expect around 10 – 20% of the headline download speed to be achieved on the uplink.

The vast majority of high usage is linked to streaming services and P2P services like Youtube, Tiktok, BitTorrents and Windows Updates.

The installation of a firewall that blocks or restricts certain applications can assist in limiting data usage.

Latency refers to delays experienced in data transmission due to the enormous distances the data packets travel, carrying your data from your premises to the satellite transponder and back to the earth station.

Typical RTT (round trip time) Latency expected on a Satellite based network is between 650 ms and 800 ms and can vary depending on how busy the internet is.

Clear Line of Sight means that there is no blockage from VSAT terminal to satellite in the sky. This is typically in a North Westerly directly for the IS37 beam and East for the IS33 beam. Obstructions will result in a degraded signal, resulting in a poor, intermittent broadband service or no service at all. This means that one will need to monitor the growth of vegetation or construction of new buildings in order to prevent obstacles that can block this line of sight.