Internet Service for the Prepper Home

If you come from a highly developed area, easy connectivity can be taken for granted–as just one of the ordinary nuisances of life, with a plethora of options available. In rural areas, the situation can be very different.

Consider your communication needs before going off-grid

For some, a totally disconnected lifestyle might be ideal! Tired of the hectic nature of modern life, a totally “off-the-grid” lifestyle might be preferable for you. Most families will want at least some level of connectivity–even if only a phone for emergency use.

The average family will expect a reliable Internet connection, and phone or cell service. For those working from home, a high-speed Internet connection is invaluable, as file transfers and videoconferencing can be nearly unusable without sufficient bandwidth.

Living in a rural area, it’s also important to have a backup communication method for use in emergencies. This could take the form of a satellite phone, amatuer radio, or other means.

Internet options for off-grid homes

The available communication options will vary widely depending on your location.

Cellular: Cell networks have increasing complete coverage, but there are many areas of the U.S. that are still entirely without cell service, or have very limited bandwidth. Even paved roads don’t necessarily mean that you’ll have good cell service. Check your provider’s coverage map, or UpPhone.com’s national coverage map.

If you are in an area of poor cell service, your coverage may be improved with use of a signal booster. Most cell network also offer “hotspot” data plans for use with home devices. Limited bandwidth and data caps make them less than ideal for extensive use, but they can be a good backup option.

FiOS/Cable/DSL: Relying on a direct connection, these options offer a greater level of reliability and bandwidth. However, very remote properties often do not have a connection to the electric utility, let alone wired Internet or phone service. Consult with the local providers (there may only be one!) to ensure that sufficient bandwidth is available.

Wireless: Many semi-rural areas are served by local wireless Internet providers. These systems are somewhat similar to a cable Internet service, but rely on a direct radio link instead of a physical cable.

Satellite: Satellite Internet is available almost anywhere on Earth. The trade-offs are typically in speed, bandwidth, and cost. Notable providers include ViaSat and HughesNet. Consider your bandwidth needs and the cost carefully. New to the satellite Internet industry is StarLink, which as of 2021, is rolling out service to rural areas across the U.S. Many early adopters are reporting great results even in very remote installations, with significant improvement and cost savings over traditional satellite service.

Backup communication methods for rural living

In rural areas, interruptions to communications may be more frequent and more extended than experienced elsewhere–there’s simply more miles of infrastructure to maintain with less manpower. Hence it is wise to have a second communication method available. A land-line phone can allow for communication if cell or Internet service is out.

Especially in very remote settings, it may be worth considering an amateur radio license. With appropriate line of sight and a Technician class license, it’s possible to connect to 2m or 70cm band repeaters at a considerable distance with affordable equipment. This can provide an additional means of communication in the event of an emergency or disruption. And of course with a General or Extra license, use of the HF bands allows long-range or even worldwide communication with no external infrastructure at all.

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