HughesNet satellite internet service (formerly DirecWay) delivers a reliable, high speed internet connection to residents of areas where DSL and cable connections are unavailable. Promising "broadband that's out of this world," HughesNet offers subscribers speeds of up to 500kbps, which, while slower than cable or DSL (which offer speeds of approximately 1.5mbps), is substantially faster (10x) than a standard dial-up connection of 28 to 50kbps.

Current or future satellite TV customers should note that establishing a HughesNet connection requires the installation of a dedicated satellite dish, meaning that satellite TV subscribers cannot use the same dish to receive both TV and internet signals.

HughesNet service is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh operating systems, and offers an always-on connection with unlimited internet access each month. HughesNet service comes with five free email accounts, so there's no need to pay another service provider to maintain your email. While HughesNet is more expensive than cable or DSL connections, the cost is certainly worth it for customers who would otherwise be stuck with a dial-up connection.

HughesNet service is available in the continental United States and Puerto Rico, and requires an outside area to mount a satellite dish with a clear view of the southern sky. HughesNet dish and modem installation are performed by trained HughesNet technicians.

HughesNet at a Glance

Required Operating System: Windows 98 or above, or Mac OS 9.0-10.2 (excludes 10.0)
Required Processor: Pentium II 333 MHz or faster for PCs, 333 MHz or faster for Macs
Required Memory: 64MB RAM (Windows 98SE and Windows Me); 128MB RAM (Windows 2000 and Windows XP); 128MB for Macs
Required Free Hard Drive Space: 100Mb for PCs, 150 MB for Macs
Connection Speed: Up to 50kbps
Monthly Cost: Either $59.99 or $99.99 a month, depending on installation cost ($59.99 plan requires $599.98 installation charge)
Geographic Availability: Continental US States and Puerto Rico

Buy HughesNet from the following retailers: