Satellite Internet (UK): How the Category Works

Overview

Satellite internet relays data via satellites rather than ground cables. Two broad categories exist: low-earth-orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO), with medium-earth-orbit (MEO) in between.

LEO vs GEO

GEO uses a few satellites in very high orbit — wide coverage but high latency. LEO uses many satellites in low orbit — much lower latency at the cost of a large constellation. Most modern UK consumer interest centres on LEO services.