Viasat Internet Review with Wide Rural Coverage

Company Overview 

Viasat is a U.S.-based provider of satellite broadband and communication services that began operations in 1986. They build and operate satellite networks designed to serve homes, businesses, governments, and critical infrastructure around the world. Their headquarters are in Carlsbad, California, and they deliver high-speed internet where traditional cable and fiber often cannot reach, especially in rural or remote areas. Viasat also powers in-flight Wi-Fi and government communication systems, making them more than a typical internet provider. 

Over the years, they have expanded through acquisitions and investments in technology. A major example is their acquisition of Inmarsat in 2023, a global mobile satellite communications company, which broadened their network reach and service options. They have also acquired networking solutions firms and specialized technology companies to strengthen their infrastructure. 

Viasat stands out for offering satellite internet plans with unlimited internet options, high upload speeds, broad coverage, professional installation, and options that include unlimited data with different priority terms. Their services aim to bring connectivity in places where few providers operate, appealing to users who need reliable coverage beyond urban centers. They usually bundle features like customer support, installation services, and options without long-term contracts. 

In terms of reputation, Viasat has secured industry recognition, such as being named “Best Satellite Provider” by CNET in past years and receiving awards for initiatives that expand global connectivity. They were also recognized at industry events for contributions to social and technical causes. 

On the consumer trust side, Viasat is not currently accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and does not hold a formal rating, which means they haven’t met all the BBB’s accreditation standards. User reviews on third-party platforms reveal a mix of satisfaction with coverage and speeds, alongside complaints related to customer service, monthly fees, and billing. That said, their combination of broad satellite coverage, ongoing technological growth, mixed customer feedback, and industry recognition paints a picture of a major provider with notable strengths and areas where potential customers may want to look closely before signing up.

Features & Solutions

Residential internet features

• Satellite internet coverage for hard-to-reach areas: Viasat delivers satellite broadband to rural, suburban, and remote locations where cable or fiber may not be available. This gives households and remote users a practical way to stay online when wired options are limited
• Download speeds up to 150 Mbps in select areas: Depending on the plan and location, customers can access speeds up to 150 Mbps. These speeds support everyday online needs like HD streaming, remote work tools, browsing, gaming, and video calls
• High-speed data plus unlimited standard data: Many plans include a monthly high-speed data allowance followed by unlimited standard data. Once high-speed data is used, service continues, but speeds may be deprioritized during peak congestion
• Contract and no-contract plan options: Customers can choose between traditional 12-month term plans or no-contract options such as Viasat Unleashed. This flexibility helps users pick a commitment level that matches their situation
• Professional installation for satellite equipment: Service typically includes professional installation of the satellite dish and modem or Wi-Fi gateway. Technicians position the dish correctly to help ensure a stronger signal and better overall performance
• Wi-Fi modem and gateway options: Viasat provides a combined modem and Wi-Fi router that broadcasts wireless coverage throughout the home. Customers can lease the equipment or buy it outright if they prefer ownership
• Whole-home Wi-Fi coverage support: The Wi-Fi gateway is designed to support multiple rooms and devices on one network. This helps families connect smart TVs, laptops, phones, tablets, and more without extra equipment or complicated setups
• EasyCare optional support plan: EasyCare waives standard service-call fees, offers one discounted dish relocation per year, and includes access to priority support. New subscribers typically get the first three months included at no extra cost

Business internet and connectivity solutions

• Backup internet for small businesses: Viasat can serve as a reliable backup connection if a primary provider goes down. Plans often include a pool of high-speed data, speeds typically in the 35–50 Mbps range, and support suited for VoIP and cloud-based tools
• Small business primary internet plans: Viasat also offers business plans that can act as a primary connection for small offices and remote work sites. These plans come with higher data allowances, business-class priority support, and installation that can often be completed within a few days
• Static IP and persistent IP options: Select business plans include static or persistent IP options. These support hosting services, VPN use, remote access needs, and overall, more predictable connectivity for business operations

Calling and communication services

• Viasat Voice home phone service: Residential users can add a VoIP home phone service that plugs directly into the Viasat modem or gateway. It includes unlimited local and long-distance calling across all 50 U.S. states and Canada, plus features like voicemail, caller ID, and call waiting
• Business VoIP phone service: Businesses can bundle VoIP calling with their internet service, often keeping their existing number. Plans typically include unlimited calling to the U.S. and Canada without consuming monthly internet data

Account management and extras

• Online account tools with My Viasat: Through the My Viasat portal, users can manage billing, review data usage, update payment methods, explore add-ons, and find support resources. This gives customers more control without calling support every time
• Bundled discounts and promotional offers: Viasat occasionally offers introductory pricing, EasyCare trial periods, and bundle savings when the internet is packaged with services like voice. These promotions help reduce costs, especially during the first year

Plans & Prices

Viasat sells internet service through online ordering, phone sales, and local authorized retailers. New customers normally check availability by address, then pick from the main home internet tiers and any add-ons like voice service or extra support. Most offers start with an introductory rate for the first three months before moving to a higher standard monthly price. Bundles with home phone and optional protection programs are also promoted, so the final bill often includes more than just the base internet plan.

Residential plans and pricing

For home users, the current lineup mainly focuses on two plans.

Viasat Unleashed is the flagship option with unlimited high-speed data, no data caps, and no contracts. On the official site, it is shown with starting prices around $69.99 to $99.99 per month before taxes and fees, depending on location and promotions.

Viasat Essentials is the lower-cost tier for lighter users, offering 150 GB of high-speed data plus unlimited standard data at a lower introductory price. It is advertised at $39.99 per month for the first three months, then $69.99 per month at the regular rate, often with a 12-month minimum term. Third-party research suggests that real-world prices usually fall within these ranges but can vary by region. Many sources note that monthly costs often rise by about $20 after the introductory period.

Business plans and pricing

Viasat also serves small businesses with satellite plans built for primary or backup connectivity. Official materials describe Business Choice-style plans with download speeds up to 100 Mbps nationwide and up to 150 Mbps in select locations, along with options like unlimited high-speed data during business hours and persistent IP addresses. Research suggests business pricing often starts in the $170 to $185 per month range for full packages, with lower-priced backup options available. Equipment and installation fees are typically higher than residential service.

Fees, contracts, and extra costs

Across both home and business services, several ongoing and one-time costs apply. Viasat usually charges a monthly equipment lease fee for the modem or Wi-Fi gateway, commonly listed at around $15 per month, with some locations offering a $250 lifetime lease option. Standard installation can sometimes be free during promotions, but the terms show it can reach up to $300, depending on credit and installation complexity. Essentials plans normally require a 12-month commitment, and canceling may lead to early termination fees of up to around $180. Unleashed is promoted as month-to-month with no contract. Taxes, surcharges, and add-ons like EasyCare support or voice services also increase the final bill.

Payment methods and billing

Viasat encourages automatic payments and supports online and mobile billing. Customers can pay using credit or debit cards, bank transfer (ACH), PayPal, and major card networks through the My Viasat portal, the mobile app, text payments, or automated phone payments. This setup lets customers manage accounts digitally, update payment methods, and avoid some live-agent fees.

For anyone considering this provider, the main takeaway is that the headline monthly price is only part of the cost story. Intro discounts, equipment leases, potential installation charges, contract terms on Essentials, and add-on services all play into the total, so it is important to read the promotional details and broadband label before signing up and to confirm the exact rate that applies at your address. 

Advantages

• Widespread availability in underserved and rural areas: This provider delivers internet access in locations where cable and fiber options are limited or unavailable, providing households and small businesses with a practical way to stay connected. For people in remote communities, this reach can mean access to work, education, telehealth, and entertainment without relying on unreliable alternatives
• Flexible service plan structure to suit different usage needs: The current lineup includes options for higher-data households as well as lighter users who simply need reliable browsing and streaming. This range of plans helps customers choose something that better matches their usage instead of paying for capacity they may never need
• Option for contract-free service on select plans: Some plans are advertised without long-term contracts, which helps reduce commitment anxiety and gives customers the ability to leave if needs change. This flexibility benefits renters, short-term residents, and people who may be testing whether satellite internet works well for their lifestyle
• Professional installation and dedicated equipment setup: Service typically includes professional installation and properly positioned equipment, which reduces the technical burden on the customer. Having trained technicians handle setup can help optimize performance and limit potential early frustrations
• Bundled services such as voice calling and support programs: Optional VoIP phone service and support add-ons make it possible to build a more complete home or business setup through a single provider. For users who prefer simplicity, having multiple services managed in one place can keep billing and troubleshooting more organized
• Business-focused solutions for remote or backup connectivity: Business plans cater to small offices, remote sites, and companies that need a backup internet line to maintain essential operations. For organizations in rural or infrastructure-limited locations, this can play an important role in business continuity and maintaining access to cloud tools and communication platforms

Disadvantages

• Higher pricing than many wired internet alternatives: Satellite internet typically costs more than cable or fiber plans offering similar or faster speeds, which can make monthly bills feel expensive. Customers comparing providers may find that value becomes a concern when other wired options are available in their area
• Speed performance that may not match urban wired internet: Even though speeds have improved, satellite still tends to lag behind fiber and high-end cable connections, especially during peak usage times. This can affect families that rely on multiple simultaneous streams, high-resolution video, or large file transfers
• Potential deprioritization after high-speed data is used: Many plans include a set amount of high-speed data before speeds may slow during network congestion. For customers who stream frequently, game online, or work with data-heavy applications, this can lead to noticeable slowdowns later in the billing cycle
• Equipment fees and additional charges that increase the total cost: Equipment leasing, installation costs, early termination fees on some plans, and optional add-ons can raise the overall price beyond the advertised monthly rate. This can be inconvenient for users who are trying to budget carefully and expect a simpler pricing structure
• Mixed customer satisfaction experiences across review platforms: While many users appreciate coverage where nothing else works, others report frustrations with billing clarity, customer service, or speed consistency. This mixed reputation may cause cautious buyers to spend more time researching and comparing alternatives before committing

Customer Experience

Customer feedback for this provider is mixed across major review platforms. On Trustpilot, they currently hold an average rating of 3.2 out of 5 stars. On Yelp, user ratings tend to tilt toward lower satisfaction, with many reviews expressing frustration over speed and reliability, though exact numeric averages vary by location and aren’t always displayed clearly. They are not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which means the company does not hold a formal rating there.

Positive feedback

Many customers praise the provider for delivering internet access in rural or remote locations where few alternatives exist. Users in hard-to-serve areas describe the service as dependable enough for everyday tasks, streaming, and online browsing, especially compared with having no service at all. Reviewers also express appreciation for professional and knowledgeable technicians, noting that installation and on-site problem-solving can be handled well and help improve performance. In some cases, customers report that service stays relatively stable once properly configured, and that people appreciate having the only available broadband option in underserved regions.

Critical feedback 

A common theme among negative reviews is slow or inconsistent speeds, with users saying performance often falls short of what was advertised or expected, especially under heavy rain or cloudy conditions. Many customers complain about the high cost relative to performance, unexpected billing practices, and confusing or unsatisfactory support interactions when problems arise. Other frustrations include long waits for service appointments and difficulty resolving technical issues through customer service. Some users also describe problems with prorating bills and unclear pricing changes after promotions end. 
Across major review platforms, the company does not appear to actively respond to customer complaints or feedback. There is little to no visible engagement on most review pages, meaning unresolved concerns often remain unaddressed publicly. For many users, this lack of response can add to frustration, especially when they are already struggling with billing, reliability, or support issues.

Customer Support

This provider offers several support channels for customers looking for help with service, billing, installation, or technical issues. Their support resources aim to cover self-help options, direct contact with support teams, and tools to manage accounts and troubleshoot common problems. 

Direct contact options

Phone support 

• Main customer care line: 1-855-463-9333 for general service and technical help
• This number typically routes through automated menus before reaching an agent
• Some alternative support numbers for general inquiries include (844) 702-3199 in the U.S. contact directory

Business support

• Business internet customers have a dedicated line: 1-855-313-4111 for business-focused help

These phone lines are often the most direct way to reach a representative for billing questions, outages, slow speeds, cancellations, and plan changes.

Online and digital support

Support portal and help Center

• Through the provider’s online support page, users can find FAQs, troubleshooting guides, account management tools, and help articles grouped by topic
• The FAQ section covers topics like starting service, changing installation dates, updating Wi-Fi settings, understanding data policies, and more 

Live chat and in-app support

• Live chat may be available once logged into the online support portal, allowing customers to connect digitally with support agents
• The My Viasat mobile app offers tools to check data usage, run diagnostics, and access support links from iOS or Android devices

Troubleshooting tools and self-help resources

Online troubleshooting articles

• The support center includes step-by-step articles for connectivity issues, equipment lights, outage checks, and modem reset procedures
• Users are encouraged to consult these resources before contacting support, which can save time and resolve minor issues

Account management tools

• The online dashboard and app allow customers to view and pay bills, manage passwords, and see outage alerts tied to their service

Accessibility and responsiveness

• Phone support lines are publicly listed and available to all customers, though wait times can vary by call volume and issue type
• Live chat and app support offer alternate channels but may require account sign-in before use
• Self-help FAQs and guides are easy to access and cover many common questions without needing direct support

Conclusion

This provider focuses on delivering satellite internet to areas where wired connections are limited, making them a practical option for rural households, remote properties, and small businesses that otherwise may not have dependable online access. Their lineup includes flexible residential and business plans, options for contract-free service on select offerings, and add-ons such as VoIP calling and support programs. For people who value availability above all else, especially in underserved locations, this combination can make internet access more feasible and convenient.

Their strongest benefits include wide coverage in locations where internet choices are scarce, flexible plan options designed for different usage needs, and a professional setup that helps customers get up and running with less hassle.Business users also benefit from dedicated solutions that support backup connectivity and remote operations. These features can directly improve daily life, from streaming and remote learning to working from home or managing essential business functions.

At the same time, customer feedback highlights meaningful drawbacks. Pricing can feel high compared to wired alternatives, and speed performance may be inconsistent depending on conditions and usage levels. Many customers also mention billing concerns, data prioritization after high-speed allowances are used, and challenges with customer support responsiveness. These experiences suggest that while this provider can solve availability problems, it may introduce tradeoffs in cost and consistency that potential subscribers should consider carefully.

Your choice of an internet provider depends on what you value most, be it availability in remote locations, plan flexibility, long-term reliability, and so on. To make the best decision, we encourage you to read our other in-depth ISP reviews, use our comparison tool to see how this provider measures up against others in your area, and explore the educational resources in our internet service provider blog to learn more before subscribing.