Over 93% of French households have internet access, yet a digital divide exists, particularly in rural areas where broadband is scarce. Satellite internet is emerging as a potential solution, with companies like Starlink leading the charge. Starlink and other providers, such as Nordnet and SkyDSL, offer various plans to enhance connectivity in underserved regions. While satellite technology is evolving, it may become a competitive alternative to traditional internet services, especially in remote locations.
The State of Internet Connectivity in France
Despite the fact that over 93% of households in France have internet access, a significant digital divide persists based on geographical location. This gap is especially pronounced when it comes to broadband connectivity.
Urban centers benefit from higher population density, making it easier for providers to supply robust internet services. In contrast, rural areas often face challenges, with numerous “white zones” lacking even basic mobile network infrastructure. Additionally, individuals with nomadic lifestyles, such as travelers or those at sea, frequently struggle to find reliable internet connections.
Could the answer to these connectivity issues lie in satellite internet? In recent years, an increasing number of companies have emerged, promising high-speed internet access globally through satellite technology, with Elon Musk’s Starlink at the forefront. Let’s explore the satellite internet options available in France.
Understanding How Satellite Internet Works
Satellite internet operates through a satellite dish installed on the user’s property, which works in tandem with a modem to transmit data packets to orbiting satellites. This setup mirrors that used for satellite television.
For both internet and TV, data packets travel a total of 144,000 kilometers, making four round trips of 36,000 kilometers each—roughly half the distance to the Moon.
Rather than merely replacing traditional connections, satellite networks aim to bridge the digital divide and facilitate information exchange in even the most isolated areas where conventional connections are unfeasible.
From a national perspective, traditional internet service providers often find it financially unviable to install network infrastructure in sparsely populated regions. The profitability of deploying relay antennas or fiber optic cables is limited, leading operators to focus on urban locales.
Current Satellite Internet Offers in France
The satellite internet landscape in France might be considered niche, with limited offerings from major telecom companies like SFR, Free, and Bouygues Telecom. Orange, however, has entered this market through its subsidiary NordNet and aims to expand its satellite services.
Starlink
Launched in France in May 2021, Starlink has rapidly ascended to prominence as the leading satellite internet provider. Operated by SpaceX, it offers a user-friendly solution with impressive performance and versatility.
Starlink has three subscription plans for individuals: residential, roaming, and maritime, starting at just 40 euros per month. Initial equipment costs are around 350 euros, increasing to nearly 3,000 euros for boat installations.
This service utilizes SpaceX’s satellite constellation, ensuring optimal reception regardless of location, although some countries have restrictions on its use.
Nordnet
Nordnet, a subsidiary of Orange since 2010, provides various network solutions, including a satellite service known as Néosat. This package includes internet, TV, and fixed/mobile telephony via satellite. Nordnet relies on the Eutelsat Konnect VHTS satellite, which has limitations compared to Starlink, resulting in potentially less stable connections.
In November 2023, Orange introduced its “Satellite Orange” service, effectively a Nordnet offering marketed under its brand. Priced at 29.99 euros for the first six months and 49.99 euros thereafter, it promises download speeds of up to 200 Mbit/s, though actual performance may vary due to various factors.
SkyDSL
SkyDSL is a German telecommunications service provider that operates in several European countries, including France. Utilizing Eutelsat’s satellite fleet, it offers internet-only services with download speeds of up to 40 Mb/s, or 75 Mb/s with a premium subscription.
OuiSat
OuiSat, a brand of Numérisat owned by Avanti Communications, provides services using its Hylas 2 satellite, which only covers 35% of French territory. Its offerings are less competitive compared to others, mainly due to high costs and data volume limitations.
So, is satellite internet a viable option? While satellite technology continues to evolve, it holds promise for competing with traditional connections, thanks in large part to pioneers like Starlink paving the way.