Residential Frequently Asked Questions
01) What is
HughesNet?
HughesNetTM is the high-speed Internet solution that’s
available to everyone in the contiguous US with a clear
view of the southern sky. HughesNet uses satellite
technology, not your phone line, to give you a
super-fast, always-on Internet connection. HughesNet
gets you online instantly, lets you surf and open pages
faster and download files in a fraction of the time it
takes on a dial-up modem.
02) How fast are HughesNet services for your home?
The HughesNet ProPlus service plan provides download
speeds up to 1.5 Mbps and upload speeds up to 200 kbps.
The HughesNet Pro service plan provides download speeds
up to 1 Mbps and upload speeds up to 200 Kbps. The
HughesNet Home service plan delivers download speeds up
to 700 Kbps and upload speeds up to 128 Kbps. All
Internet technologies (satellite or land-based) share
available network bandwidth in one way or another;
therefore, actual speeds may vary.
03) What connection speeds will I typically get with
HughesNet?
With the HughesNetTM Home service plan, you may enjoy
download speeds up to 700 Kbps, with typical speeds of
about 500 Kbps to 600 Kbps during peak times. Upload
speeds, which are capable of reaching 128 Kbps, are
typically 70 Kbps to 80 Kbps during peak hours.
With the HughesNet Pro plan, connect to the Internet
with maximum download speeds of up to 1.0 Mbps, with
typical speeds about 650 Kbps to 750 Kbps during peak
times. Upload speeds, which are capable of reaching 200
Kbps, are typically 100 Kbps to 125 Kbps during peak
hours.
With the HughesNet ProPlus plan, connect to the Internet
with maximum download speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps, with
typical speeds about 750 Kbps to 800 Kbps during peak
times. Upload speeds, which are capable of reaching 200
Kbps, are typically 100 Kbps to 125 Kbps during peak
hours.
04) How can I/where can I purchase HughesNet?
You can order online from this site or you can speak
with a HughesNetTM sales representative. Return to the
FAQ page and select the ‘Order Now’ button on the top
right of your screen (or bottom left column) for more
information on ordering HughesNet service.
05) What are my computer system requirements for
HughesNet?
HughesNetTM lets connect your computer to the Internet
whether you are running a Windows® or Macintosh®
operating system. In order to ensure you get the most
out of your Internet experience, HughesNet has developed
these minimum requirements:
Windows 98SE or higher or Mac OS 10.1 or higher, and
Network capability (10/100 Ethernet pre-equipped)
06)
Is HughesNet compatible with my Mac?
Yes, HughesNetTM is compatible with Mac OS 10.1 or
higher. 10/100 Ethernet connectivity is also required.
07) Can I use HughesNet to run a small network?
Yes, you can connect multiple home computers and laptops
to a single HughesNetTM Internet connection. Home
networking equipment may be required and is not included
with your HughesNet system. For network setup, support,
and configuration, contact your network hardware
manufacturer and/or operating system software developer
(HUGHES® is not responsible for home network
configuration or management).
Please understand that all computers on this network
will be sharing a single connection. Simultaneous use of
high-bandwidth applications by multiple users may result
in degradation of speed and is subject to the HughesNet
Fair Access Policy.
08) Can the HughesNetTM-certified installer set up my
home network?
If you’d like, you can inquire if this option is
available through your installer when you set your
installation appointment. However, home networks are not
included or supported by HUGHES® technical support.
Multiple simultaneous users may degrade service.
Uninterrupted service and stated speeds not guaranteed.
09) If I order HughesNet today, will you bill my
credit/debit card today? .
No, you will not be billed until the day you are
installed and your HughesNet service is activated. On
that day, your first bill will likely include:
HughesNet equipment (satellite modem and dish)
Standard installation by a professional installer*
Monthly service fee (customers are forward or advanced
billed for service)
Optional services (if selected at time of purchase)
Any applicable taxes
Initial orders must be made via a valid credit/debit
card. After the initial order, you may elect to receive
a monthly invoice for an additional fee of $5.
*Additional fees for non-standard installations will be
charged and paid directly to the professional installer
at time of installation
10) Can I use a PCMCIA card adapter for my laptop?
Yes. All you need to connect your computer to the
HughesNetTM modem is either a 10/100 Ethernet Network
Interface Card or a PCMCIA adapter with an Ethernet
connector. The HughesNet system includes an Ethernet
cable to connect your computer to the HughesNet modem.
11) Do I still need a dial-up modem and telephone line?
No. There is no phone line or dial-up data modem
required to use your HughesNetTM service.
12) If I already have DIRECTV service, do I need to get
a new dish for HughesNet?
Yes, the HughesNetTM system requires a unique dish in
order to send and receive information via satellite. You
cannot use your DIRECTV dish for HughesNet high-speed
Internet service.
13) I have DIRECTV already. Will this be on the same
bill? Any special deals?
No, you will not be able to receive both services on the
same bill. HUGHES®, which delivers HughesNetTM services,
is not affiliated with The DIRECTV Group. At this time,
there are no discounts for selecting both services.
14) Why is there a requirement that the HughesNet system
be professionally installed?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires
that trained professionals install any satellite system
that both sends and receives signals.
15) How quickly will I be up and running?
On average, most customers are installed within 2 weeks
of their order. When you place your order today, your
name will be provided to a certified HughesNetTM
installer, who will contact you within 5 days. You and
the installer will then work out a mutually agreeable
date and time for your installation. If less than 2
weeks is too soon for you, just place your order when
your ready for HughesNet high-speed Internet service!
16) What
is transmission latency?
Latency refers to the amount of time it takes a packet
of data to travel across a network. With satellite
service, that data must travel up to the satellite and
back (about 45,000 miles). This round trip adds about a
half-second delay to the total time your computer takes
to communicate with a Website or host server. Therefore,
time-sensitive applications that require
fractions-of-a-second user inputs (such as multi-player
“twitch” games or real-time equities trading) are not
recommended with HughesNetTM.
17) Can
I run a VPN over HughesNet?
HughesNetTM Home Service plan is not compatible with
VPNs.
You may use a VPN with HughesNet, but you will likely
experience reduced speeds as much as 50-75%. You can
restore your connection to full speed by simply
disabling your VPN client when your session is over.
Note: HughesNet Technical Support does not provide help
with configuring or troubleshooting problems associated
with VPN clients.
18) Why does the service slow down when used in
conjunction with a VPN?
HughesNetTM uses sophisticated acceleration techniques
to enable high-speed performance over satellite. These
acceleration techniques require access to data packet
header information, which is blocked when IPSec-based
VPNs are used. These VPNs encrypt the data and create a
secure tunnel through the HughesNet network. The
encrypted data cannot be processed by HughesNet's
acceleration techniques, therefore resulting in slower
performance.
19) Can I put this system on a boat or in an RV?
HughesNetTM Home and Professional service is available
for non-mobile (fixed) locations. To receive mobile
high-speed Internet service, please contact one of the
following Value Added Service providers:
Ground Control www.groundcontrol.com
1-800-773-7168
MobilSat www.mobilsat.com
1-757-312-8300
MotoSAT www.motosat.com
20) I’m a home user of the HughesNet service. How can I
contact Customer Support when I have a question or
problem?
If you are a “Powered By” or VAR end user, please
contact your billing provider.
For HughesNetTM Technical Support or Customer Service,
please log on to www.myHughesNet.com where you can chat
with our technical support staff, check your usage, test
your satellite speed, or browse our online help files.
This site will also enable you to view your account
status, online invoices, and activity history. Telephone
Customer Service and technical support is also available
toll-free at 1-866-347-3292.
Business Frequently Asked Questions
01) What is
HughesNetTM?
HughesNetTM is the high-speed Internet solution that’s
available to every growing business in the contiguous US
with a clear view of the southern sky. HughesNet uses
satellite technology, not your phone line, to give you a
fast, always-on Internet connection—so you have instant
access to the business-critical information you need.
02) How fast are HughesNet Business services?
FAST—a world apart from your dial-up connection!
HughesNet offers two service plans for business.
HughesNet Business Internet provides maximum download
speeds of 2.0Mbps, and maximum upload speeds of 500Kbps.
HughesNet Small Office service plan provides maximum
download speeds of 1.5Mbps, and maximum upload speeds of
300Kbps. You’ll download files in seconds, access email
instantly, and share information easier and faster with
customers, partners and suppliers.
03) What connection speeds will I typically get with
HughesNet?
With the HughesNet Small Office service plan, you may
enjoy maximum download speeds of 1.5Mbps, with typical
speeds of about 800Kbps during peak times. Upload
speeds, which are capable of reaching 300Kbps, are
typically about 185Kbps during peak hours.
With the HughesNet Business Internet plan, connect your
office to the Internet with maximum download speeds of
2.0Mbps, with typical speeds about 1.2Mbps during peak
times. Upload speeds, which are capable of reaching
500Kbps, are typically 300Kbps during peak hours.
04) How fast are HughesNet Business services compared to
other high-speed services?
HughesNetTM provides download speed performance similar
to other broadband services. The user experience is
excellent when downloading Web pages, emails, or large
data files. At the same time, satellite "upload" speeds
(for sending data) are more appropriate for general
Internet use, such as browsing the Internet, email,
online ordering, etc. and not appropriate for higher
speed demands of Website hosting, as an example.
05) Which HughesNet service is right for my business?
HughesNetTM delivers a wide range of innovative and
scalable network solutions to enterprises and
small-to-medium businesses, and allows consumers and
teleworkers everywhere to enjoy the excitement and
convenience of high-speed Internet from home.
For small home offices, HughesNet Professional service
is generally recommended.
For small businesses looking for connectivity at a
commercial location, HughesNet offers two service plans:
HughesNet Small Office
HughesNet Business Internet
06) What is the difference between HughesNet business
service plans and the consumer service plans?
SPEED! HughesNetTM Small Office and HughesNet Business
Internet service plans provide larger transmission
resources than the Home and Professional plans. As such,
they provide a higher level of overall performance for a
multi-user, small business environment. Some of the
other key differences include: commercial installation
of a slightly larger antenna for faster upload and
download speeds and higher reliability; the ability to
download larger files more frequently; a greater number
of open TCP sessions; and additional static IP
addresses.
07) How can I/where can I purchase HughesNet for my
business?
Order HughesNetTM online from this site or speak
directly with a HughesNet sales representative.
08) What are my computer system requirements for
HughesNet?
HughesNetTM works with virtually any computer and is
simple to use. Connect your computer to the Internet
whether you are running a Windows® or Macintosh®
operating system. In order to ensure you get the most
out of your Internet experience, your computer should
have the following minimum properties
Windows 98SE and higher or Mac 10.1 and higher and
Network capability (10/100 Ethernet pre-equipped)
All you need to connect your computer to the HughesNetTM
modem is either a 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface Card
or a PCMCIA adapter with an Ethernet connector. The
HughesNet system includes an Ethernet cable to connect
your computer to the HughesNet modem.
09) Is HughesNet compatible with my Mac?
Yes, HughesNetTM is compatible with Mac OS 10.1 or
higher. 10/100 Ethernet connectivity is also required.
10) Can I run a small local area network with HughesNet?
Yes, you can connect multiple computers and laptops to a
single HughesNetTM Internet connection, so your staff
can enjoy fast downloading and instant access to the
Internet. HughesNet Small Office is optimized to
accommodate up to 5 concurrent users, while HughesNet
Business Internet is optimized for up to 10 concurrent
users. Additional networking equipment, not included in
your HughesNet system, may be required. For network
setup, support, and configuration contact your network
hardware manufacturer and/or operating system software
developer. HUGHES® is not responsible for network
configuration or management.
All computers on this network will be sharing a single
connection. Simultaneous use of high-bandwidth
applications by multiple users may result in degradation
of speed and is subject to the HughesNet Fair Access
Policy.
11) Is HughesNet compatible with PDA's to check emails?
HughesNet email is compatible with any email client that
supports POP3 and SMTP protocols
12) If I order HughesNet today, will you bill my
credit/debit card today?
No, you will not be billed until the day you are
installed and your HughesNet service is activated. On
that day, your first bill will likely include:
HughesNet equipment (satellite modem and dish)
Standard installation by a professional installer*
Monthly service fee (customers are forward or advanced
billed for service)
Optional services (if selected at time of purchase)
Any applicable taxes
Initial orders must be made via a valid credit/debit
card. After the initial order, you may elect to receive
a monthly invoice for an additional fee of $5.
*Additional fees for non-standard installations will be
charged and paid directly to the professional installer
at time of installation.
13) Do I still need a dial-up modem and telephone line?
No. HughesNetTM delivers high-speed Internet access via
satellite, so you have instant access to the
business-critical information you need without dialing
in. You do not need a phone line or dial-up data modem
to access the Internet when you use your HughesNet
service.
14) Why is there a requirement that the HughesNet system
be professionally installed?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires
that trained professionals install any two-way satellite
system.
15) What
is transmission latency?
Latency refers to the amount of time it takes a packet
of data to travel across a network. With satellite
service, that data must travel up to the satellite and
back (about 45,000 miles). This round trip adds about a
half a second delay to the total time your computer
takes to communicate with a Website or host server. Most
back-office applications, e-commerce transactions, and
common business applications work very well over
HughesNet.TM Business applications that require response
times in fractions-of-a-second (such as Web hosting,
VoIP, and video conferencing) are not recommended over
satellite.
16) Can I run a VPN using HughesNet for business?
Yes, but running a VPN client over satellite is not an ideal
configuration. If you choose to run VPN over satellite,
your data speeds may be reduced by as much as 50–75%.
You can restore your connection to full speed by simply
disabling your VPN client when your session is over.
Note: HughesNet technical support does not provide help
with configuring or troubleshooting problems associated
with VPN clients.
*** HughesNet does offer an end-to-end VPN accelerator
solution for large corporations and government agencies.
This accelerator delivers higher connection speeds over
VPN. Go to vpn.HughesNet.com for more information.
17) Why does the service slow down when used in
conjunction with a VPN?
HughesNetTM uses sophisticated acceleration techniques
to enable high-speed performance over satellite. These
acceleration techniques require access to data packet
header information, which is blocked when IPSec-based
VPNs are used. These VPNs encrypt the data and create a
secure tunnel through the HughesNet network. The
encrypted data cannot be processed by HughesNet's
acceleration techniques, therefore resulting in slower
performance.
18) How much
does it cost?
HughesNetTM service plans for business begin as low as
$99.99/month.
 
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