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Rural internet users face unique challenges when selecting an internet provider. EarthLink and HughesNet both specialize in bringing connectivity to areas where traditional cable or fiber infrastructure isn’t available. While each offers satellite internet options, they take different approaches to rural internet service. 

Provider Takeaways

Before diving into the details, here’s a quick snapshot of what each provider does best.

  • Multiple connection types, including fiber, wireless, and satellite internet
  • Serves 96% of homes across 48 states
  • Plans range from 100 GB to unlimited data options

HughesNet

  • Nationwide satellite internet coverage, including Alaska and Puerto Rico
  • HughesNet satellite internet with consistent speeds up to 100 Mbps
  • Price-lock guarantee for 24 months with no rate increases 
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  • Best internet protection
  • Unlimited data included
  • No credit checks
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  • Satellite internet
  • 2-year fixed pricing
  • No hard data caps

Internet Plans

Our Picks

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Starting Price

$39.95/mo.$39.99/mo.

Max Download

5 Gbps100 Mbps

Data Caps

NoNo

Equipment Fee

Up to $14.95/mo.Up to $19.99/mo.

Check AvailabilityCheck Availability

Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Prices may reflect promotions and enrollment in paperless billing and autopay. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 4/10/2026.

EarthLink internet plans offer multiple connection types depending on your location. EarthLink satellite internet provides broad rural coverage through partnerships with providers like Viasat. Their wireless home internet service covers rural areas using 4G LTE and 5G networks, while fiber service delivers the fastest speeds where infrastructure allows. 

HughesNet Satellite Internet Plans 

HughesNet satellite internet plans use geostationary satellites positioned 22,300 miles above Earth to provide nationwide coverage. Their Gen5 satellite technology delivers download speeds up to 100 Mbps with upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. HughesNet satellite internet operates on a tiered data system with priority data allowances. 

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Internet Connection Types

EarthLink Connection Options: 

 

HughesNet Satellite Technology: 

  • Geostationary Satellites: Positioned 22,300 miles above Earth
  • Nationwide Coverage: Available anywhere with clear southern sky exposure
  • Higher Latency: 500-700 milliseconds due to signal travel distance
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Data Allowances and Speed Management

EarthLink Data Options 

  • Fiber Plans: Unlimited data on most plans
  • Wireless Plans: Tiered options from 100 GB to unlimited
  • Satellite Plans: Set priority data allowances depending on provider partnerships

HughesNet Data Management 

HughesNet satellite internet uses soft data caps rather than hard limits: 

  • Priority Data: 15-200 GB per month depending on plan
  • Speed Throttling: Reduced speeds after priority data is used
  • No Service Cutoff: Internet remains available even after data cap
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Pricing and Contract Terms

EarthLink Satellite Internet Prices 

EarthLink satellite internet prices vary based on: 

  • Service Type: Fiber, wireless, or satellite availability
  • Data Plans: Different allowances and unlimited options
  • Location: Regional pricing variations through partner networks
  • Contract Terms: 12-month fiber, 24-month satellite, month-to-month wireless options

HughesNet Pricing Structure 

  • Promotional Pricing: Starting at $39.99/mo. for 12 months
  • Standard Rates: Apply after promotional period
  • Price-Lock Guarantee: No rate increases for 24 months
  • Equipment Included: Leased satellite equipment in monthly price 
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Installation and Equipment

EarthLink Setup Options 

  • Fiber Installation: Free professional installation
  • Wireless Setup: Self-installation options available
  • Satellite Installation: Variable costs depending on partner network
  • Equipment Rental: Router rentals start at $12.95/mo.

HughesNet Installation Process 

  • Professional Installation: Free standard installation for new customers
  • Satellite Dish Setup: Required for service activation
  • Equipment Lease: Modem and dish included in monthly service cost
  • Self-Installation: Not typically available for satellite service 
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Internet Performance and Reliability

Latency Considerations 

Both providers face latency challenges inherent with satellite internet: 

  • Satellite Internet Latency: 500-700 ms for geostationary satellites
  • Impact on Activities: Affects online gaming, video calls, and VoIP
  • EarthLink Advantage: Lower latency with fiber and wireless options
  • Weather Sensitivity: Both satellite services can slow during severe weather

Speed Consistency 

  • HughesNet: Faster speeds nationwide with Gen5 technology
  • EarthLink Satellite: Performance varies by location and partner network
  • Peak Usage: Both may experience slower speeds during high-traffic periods
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Coverage and Availability

EarthLink Service Areas 

  • 48 Continental States: 96% coverage across service areas
  • Technology Dependent: Fiber limited to infrastructure availability
  • Rural Focus: Strong wireless and satellite coverage in underserved regions
  • Partnership Model: Satellite coverage through Viasat and other providers 

HughesNet Coverage Map 

  • Nationwide Service: Service is available in all 50 states
  • Puerto Rico Coverage: Extended service to U.S. territories
  • Rural Emphasis: Designed specifically for areas without wired infrastructure
  • Clear Sky Requirement: Service depends on unobstructed southern sky view 
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Best Use Cases for Each Provider

Choose EarthLink for: 

  • Multiple Technology Options: Fiber, wireless, or satellite depending on location
  • Higher Speed Needs: Up to 5 Gbps with fiber service
  • Flexible Contracts: Month-to-month wireless options available
  • Better Performance: Better upload speeds for remote work requirements

Choose HughesNet for: 

  • Guaranteed Coverage: Service available anywhere in contiguous U.S.
  • Stable Prices: 24-month price-lock guarantee
  • Improved Performance: Uniform speeds across all service areas
  • Basic Internet Needs: Suitable for web browsing, email, and light streaming 

Both EarthLink and HughesNet serve important roles in connecting rural America to reliable internet service. EarthLink excels when fiber or 5G wireless coverage is available in your area, offering faster speeds and lower latency. HughesNet satellite internet remains the most dependable option for extremely remote locations where other technologies can’t reach. 

Before making your final decision, check availability at your specific address and consider your household’s internet usage patterns. Both providers offer valuable solutions for rural connectivity, but the best choice depends on which technologies are available at your home and how you use the internet. 

Enter your zip code to see providers near you.

The better choice depends on your location and needs. EarthLink offers more technology options including faster fiber and wireless services where available, while HughesNet provides nationwide satellite coverage with predictable pricing. 

HughesNet satellite internet plans differ mainly in priority data allowances (15-200 GB) and pricing. All plans offer the same maximum speeds but vary in how much high-speed data you receive before potential throttling.

EarthLink satellite internet prices vary based on data plans and partner networks, while HughesNet offers standardized pricing with promotional rates. Both providers charge similar amounts for comparable service levels.

Yes, both providers experience similar latency issues with satellite internet due to the distance signals travel to geostationary satellites. EarthLink’s fiber and wireless options offer significantly lower latency when available.

EarthLink provides more flexibility with unlimited options on fiber and some wireless plans, while HughesNet uses soft data caps that slow speeds rather than cutting service entirely. Choose based on your monthly usage patterns and data needs.