Connect Your SME with Satellite Internet

In recent years, fibre optic and cable networks have made significant progress in Spain. According to the Digital Decade report, Spain's digital infrastructure is above the European average, with 93% of high-capacity fixed networks available. This allows many companies and households to enjoy high-speed internet.

However, this expansion has created large disparities between urban areas, where coverage is almost total, and rural areas, where fibre networks may not yet be available.

Although many rural areas have cable network coverage, a significant number of agricultural and livestock businesses still lack access to quality internet. This limitation affects SMEs by restricting their ability to adopt technologies that could improve efficiency, creating obstacles for modernisation and competitiveness in an increasingly digital world. Some of the main challenges include:

• Difficulties adopting digital tools: such as smart irrigation systems, soil sensors, or livestock management apps.
• Poor communication: with suppliers, customers, and business partners.

Satellite Internet as a Viable Alternative

Given the difficulty of accessing fibre optics, satellite internet emerges as an effective and accessible solution for rural SMEs. But what exactly is satellite internet?

Satellite internet is a type of connection that uses electromagnetic waves to link satellites to stations and antennas on the ground. This allows internet access from almost any location, regardless of the existing land infrastructure.

For agricultural and livestock SMEs, satellite internet can provide numerous benefits, including:

• Optimisation of resources: A stable connection enables access to tools like irrigation sensors or crop and livestock management systems, allowing you to monitor and control water, fertiliser, or feed supplies more efficiently.
• Real-time monitoring: You’ll be able to keep an eye on your crops and livestock at all times, allowing you to respond quickly to adverse weather conditions or outbreaks of disease.
• Access to e-commerce: This connection offers access to e-commerce platforms where you can sell your products, and you can also create your own website.
• Improved communication: You can maintain smoother communication with suppliers and business partners, reducing the need for travel and enhancing efficiency. Additionally, you’ll be able to offer more personalised and responsive service to your customers.

However, it’s important to note that satellite internet can have higher latency (the time it takes to process a response) compared to cable internet. This means you might experience some delays in loading operations, such as during video calls.

If you'd like to know how to implement this system in your SME, we'll explain it below.

Steps to Connect Your SME

Although the initial investment in satellite internet services can be high, the connectivity features provided by satellite may be unavailable through other methods. Here are the steps to connect your SME, and you’ll see it’s a relatively simple process, similar to signing up for a standard internet package:

1. Choose a provider: The first step is selecting an operator. In Spain, companies like Hispasat or Eurona offer satellite internet services.
2. Install the equipment: After signing up, you’ll need to install a satellite dish and a modem. Your chosen provider will give you the necessary instructions for installation.

As you can see, opting for satellite internet can be an excellent solution for your agricultural or livestock SME. Plus, the cost of these services is often comparable to other types of internet connections. Are you ready to give it a try?

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