WorldCom has announced plans to launch a satellite Internet
broadband service for the US in early 2002.
The satellite service will offer download bandwidth in a general
operating range of 600Kbps to 800K bps.
WorldCom is pitching the satellite service to business customers,
offering multicasting, data-casting and interactive services for
remote users. WorldCom will offer Virtual Private Networking (VPN)
services which allow remote users to access corporate networks.
WorldCom is re-branding the Direcway satellite infrastructure from
Hughes Network Systems. Hughes uses geosynchronous stationary
orbiting satellites to deliver Internet service to ground
terminals.
A satellite internet service may appeal to consumers caught in
areas unserved by other broadband options. However, the initial
costs associated with a satellite service may limit its appeal to
consumers. Many service providers bundle satellite TV services with
the Internet service, allowing customers to combine equipment and
installation costs for two services at once.
WorldCom has not partnered with a satellite TV service provider for
bundled Internet service, but a Hughes dish installed for TV can be
adapted to add Internet service, a WorldCom spokeswoman said.