A satellite dish can receive TV and Internet signals.
Accessing the Internet through a satellite can work for laptop computer users to get Internet access from anywhere. It is also an option for people in rural areas who don't have access to cable or DSL lines. There are two primary methods of using a satellite to access the Internet. You can connect through a wireless card using the services of a wireless phone service provider. You can also use a satellite TV antenna, provided the antenna is designed to connect to a modem through dual coaxial cables.
Instructions
Wireless Card
1. Purchase a wireless air card from any electronics store that has a wireless phone department. You will also need to purchase a monthly plan for service via the air card's provider.
2. Insert the CD-ROM that comes with the card into your computer drive and follow its instructions to install the driver software for the air card.
3. Plug the air card into your computer through an available USB port.
4. Click on the icon for the air card software -- which should now be in your applications folder -- to open up the connection application. You can copy this icon to your computer's dock or toolbar for easier access.
5. Click on the connect button within the application to connect to the provider's satellite.
Satellite Dish
6. Connect your satellite dish to a cable modem using the dual RG coaxial cables that connect to the dish antenna. Make sure you know which cable is the "in" cable and which is "out" and connect them to the right ports on the modem.
7. Connect the modem to your computer using a CAT5 Ethernet cable.
8. Call your satellite or Internet provider to subscribe and activate your satellite Internet service. DirecTV and Dish Network do not directly provide Internet access but partner with other Internet providers.
