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Hughesnet FAQs
ID Question
01 What is HughesNet?
02 How fast is HughesNet broadband Internet service for your home?
03 What connection speeds will I typically get with HughesNet?
04 How fast are HughesNet Business services compared to other high-speed services?
05 Which HughesNet service is right for my business?
06 What is the difference between HughesNet business service plans and the consumer service plans?
07 How can I/where can I purchase HughesNet for my home or business?
08 What are my computer system requirements for HughesNet?
09 Is HughesNet compatible with my Mac?
10 Can I use HughesNet to run a small network?
11 Can the HughesNet-certified installer set up my home network?
12 What if my computer did not come with a Network Interface Card (NIC)? What can I do?
13 Can I use a PCMCIA card adapter for my laptop?
14 Do I still need a dial-up modem and telephone line?
15 If I already have DIRECTV service, do I need to get a new dish for HughesNet?
16 I have DIRECTV already. Will this be on the same bill? Any special deals?
17 Why is there a requirement that the HughesNet system be professionally installed?
18 How quickly will I be up and running?
19 What is transmission latency?
20 Can I run a VPN over HughesNet?
21 Why does the service slow down when used in conjunction with a VPN?
22 Can I put this system on a boat or in an RV?
23 I’m a home user of HughesNet service. How can I contact Customer Support when I have a question or problem?

What is HughesNet? 01
HughesNet 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. Businesses benefit from having instant access to the business-critical information they need.
How fast is HughesNet broadband Internet service for your home? 02
HughesNet offers a number of Internet service choices to meet your broadband needs. The Basic plan offers download speeds up to 1.0 Mbps, while our fastest plan, Power 200, offers download speeds up to 2.0 Mbps. Learn more about the plans and speeds available.
The Power 200 service plan is only available through the new HughesNet satellite. Approximately 1% will not be able to receive the Power 200 plan as a result of trees or other obstacles that block the signal from the satellite to the home.
When you connect to the Internet using HughesNet, the upload and download speeds you experience will vary based on a variety of factors including the configuration of your computer, the number of concurrent users, network or Internet congestion, the speed of the Websites you are accessing, and other factors. Stated speeds and uninterrupted use of service are not guaranteed. In all cases, actual upload speed will likely be lower than speed indicated during peak hours. See our typical speeds FAQ for more information. Download speeds may also be temporarily slowed in cases when patterns of system usage exceed the download threshold for an extended period of time. See the HughesNet Fair Access Policy for more information.

What connection speeds will I typically get with HughesNet? 03
When you connect to the Internet using HughesNet, the upload and download speeds you experience will vary based on a variety of factors including the configuration of your computer, the number of concurrent users, network or Internet congestion, the speed of the Websites you are accessing, and other factors. Stated speeds and uninterrupted use of service are not guaranteed. During peak hours, actual upload and download speed will likely be lower than speeds indicated.

How fast are HughesNet Business services compared to other high-speed services? 04
HughesNet 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, for example.
Which HughesNet service is right for my business? 05
HughesNet HughesNet 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 Power 150 and HughesNet Power 200 service are recommended. For small businesses looking for connectivity at a commercial location for several concurrent users, HughesNet offers additional commercial level service plans. For more information about HughesNet Business serivce call toll free 1-866-845-0120 to speak with a specialist.


To determine if HughesNet (and satellite Internet service overall) is a good fit for your business, call toll free 1-866-845-0120 to request a consultation with one of our Satellite Internet Specialists.
What is the difference between HughesNet business service plans and the consumer service plans? 06
SPEED! The HughesNet commercial service plans provide larger transmission resources than residential service plans. As such, they provide a higher level of overall performance for a multi-user, small business environment. Some of the key differences include: the ability to download larger files more frequently; a greater number of open TCP sessions; additional static IP addresses and on-site maintenance available.
How can I/where can I purchase HughesNet for my home or business? 07
You can order online from this site or you can speak with a HughesNet one of our Satellite Internet Specialists at 1-866-845-0120. Click here to request a consultation.
What are my computer system requirements for HughesNet? 08
HughesNet lets you 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 2000 PE or higher (including Windows XP and VISTA) or Mac OS 10.1 or higher, and Network capability (10/100 Ethernet pre-equipped)
Is HughesNet compatible with my Mac? 09
Yes, HughesNet is compatible with Mac OS 10.1 or higher. 10/100 Ethernet connectivity is also required.
Can I use HughesNet to run a small network? 10
Yes, you can connect multiple computers and laptops to a single HughesNet Internet connection. 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. Nationwide Satellite and HughesNet are not responsible for 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.
Can the HughesNet-certified installer set up my home network? 11
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 HNS technical support. Multiple simultaneous users may degrade service. Uninterrupted service and stated speeds not guaranteed.
What if my computer did not come with a Network Interface Card (NIC)? What can I do? 12
Many computers can be upgraded with a 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC). If you are comfortable with opening your computer and installing hardware, most Ethernet NICs can be self-installed. Check with your computer manufacturer for more information on the right Ethernet NIC for your system. Make sure your NIC is configured for "auto-negotiate."

Also, if you have an available USB port on your computer, you can purchase a USB Ethernet adapter. This may be easier to install than a PCI card in your computer. For a laptop, you can purchase a standard PCMCIA card that provides an Ethernet connection, or you can purchase a USB Ethernet adapter as well. We recommend that you upgrade your computer to meet all of the requirements listed above to get the most out of your Internet experience.
Can I use a PCMCIA card adapter for my laptop? 13
Yes. All you need to connect your computer to the HughesNet 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.
Do I still need a dial-up modem and telephone line? 14
No. HughesNet delivers high-speed Internet access via satellite, so you have instant access to the Internet 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.
If I already have DIRECTV service, do I need to get a new dish for HughesNet? 15
Yes. The HughesNet system requires a unique dish and transmitter antenna in order to send and receive information via satellite. DIRECTV receivers and dishes can only receive Satellite Television transmissions and cannot send or receive a Satellite Internet transmission.

HughesNet and DIRECTV have a partnership through their marketing efforts but operate as separate companies each providing a different type of satellite service to their customers.
I have DIRECTV already. Will this be on the same bill? Any special deals? 16
No, you will not be able to receive both services on the same bill. Hughes Network Systems, which delivers HughesNet services, is affiliated with The DIRECTV Group for marketing purposes only, and is operated as an independent company. There are no discounts for selecting both services. If you choose to receive both services, you will be billed separately for each.
Why is there a requirement that the HughesNet system be professionally installed? 17
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that trained professionals install any satellite system that both sends and receives signals.
How quickly will I be up and running? 18
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 HughesNet 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.
What is transmission latency? 19
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 HughesNet.
Can I run a VPN over HughesNet? 20
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. The HughesNet Power 200 service plan is best suited for VPN.

SSL-based VPN products have proven to work more efficiently over satellite than IPSEC-Based VPN products. For questions or recommendations on a VPN product that will work more effectively with your HughesNet system, please contact one of our Satellite Internet Specialists at 1-866-845-0120.

Note: HughesNet Technical Support does not provide help with configuring or troubleshooting problems associated with VPN clients. For questions about your VPN product, please contact the manufacturer's tech support.
Why does the service slow down when used in conjunction with a VPN? 21
HughesNet 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.
Can I put this system on a boat or in an RV? 22
HughesNet, provided by Nationwide Satellite is available for non-mobile (fixed) locations. To receive mobile high-speed Internet service, please contact a Value Added Service provider that installs Mobile Satellite Internet Systems.
I’m a home user of HughesNet service. How can I contact Customer Support when I have a question or problem? 23
For HughesNet Technical Support or Customer Service, please log on to www.myHughesNet.com where you can chat with HughesNet 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-HughesNet (1-866-347-3292)

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All HughesNet plans require a 24 month commitment and valid credit/debit card to order. Monthly service and termination fees apply. Lease option requires credit check for approval. Usage is subject to a Fair Access Policy. Actual speeds may vary. Speed and uninterrupted use of service are not guaranteed. For more information and HughesNet service terms and conditions visit: HughesNet Terms and Conditions

HughesNet equipment may be new or refurbished. Any refurbished equipment will have the same warranty as new equipment. In the event that you elect the purchase option, and the equipment installed at your location is refurbished, we will provide you with a $25 credit on your first Service invoice.

Networking equipment is not included. 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 and 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.

± Speed comparison based on 53 Kbps dialup. Actual speeds may vary. Usage is subject to the Fair Access Policy. When you connect to the Internet using HughesNet, the upload and download speeds you experience will vary based on a variety of factors including the configuration of your computer, the number of concurrent users, network or Internet congestion, the speed of the Web sites you are accessing, and other factors. Stated speeds and uninterrupted use of service are not guaranteed. During peak hours, actual upload and download speeds will likely be lower than speeds indicated.

The Power 200 service plan is only available through the new HughesNet satellite. Approximately 1% will not be able to receive the Power 200 plan.

To ensure fair Internet access for all HughesNet subscribers, Hughes maintains a Fair Access Policy. This policy establishes an equitable balance in Internet access for all HughesNet subscribers. Hughes assigns a Download Allowance to each service plan that limits the amount of data that may be continuously downloaded within specified time periods. Subscribers who exceed this limit will experience a temporary reduction of speed.

The Download Allowance is the amount of data which can be downloaded without restriction within a rolling 24-hour period. The Basic plan Download Allowance is 250 MB. The Power 150 plan Download Allowance is 350 MB. The Power 200 plan Download Allowance is 450 MB. Learn more about the Fair Access Policy.

* Free Standard Installation valid on new Lease option only. Not valid with the Purchase option. Limited time offer. HughesNet Lease option requires credit check for approval. For more information and HughesNet service terms and conditions, please visit legal.hughesnet.com.

** $100 instant savings applies to new subscribers who Purchase a new HughesNet system. Not applicable with the Lease option. Offer ends 6/30/13. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void wherever prohibited or restricted by law. Visit www.rebate.HughesNet.com for details.

+ $39.99 is available to new subscribers with the Power or Connect PRO service plans only. Offer represents $20 savings off the Power or Connect PRO monthly service fee. After three months, the monthly fee reverts back to $59.99. $9.99 monthly equipment Lease fee may apply. HughesNet service and equipment must be purchased or leased between 4/1/13 and 6/30/13 for the Power service plan. HughesNet service and equipment must be purchased or leased between 4/1/13 and 6/30/13 for the Connect PRO service plan.. Restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited. Visit legal.hughesnet.com for details.

++ $99 instant savings applies to new subscribers who Lease a new HughesNet system. Not applicable with the Purchase option. Offer ends 6/30/13. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void wherever prohibited or restricted by law.

Plans only available on the EchoStar XVII satellite. Certain geographical areas are not covered by this satellite.

Monthly Download Allowance is the sum of the Anytime and Bonus Bytes.

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Nationwide Satellite is an authorized dealer of HughesNet services and Hughes products available in the contiguous United States (Alaska and Hawaii excluded). Equipment requires professional installation. HughesNet is a registered trademark of Hughes Network Services, LLC. All rights reserved. For more information, please visit legal.hughesnet.com.

Accessing HughesNet broadband and DIRECTV television services requires two separate satellite dishes and the purchase of additional hardware. Call A HughesNet Specialist Now 1-866-845-0120

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