What is a satellite contention ratio? How does it affect service?
All shared bandwidth satellite service comes with a contention ratio. It indicates the number of subscribers sharing the same segment space on the satellite expressed as a ratio. A contention ratio of 20:1, for example, indicates that a given subscriber may share the same segment space with up to 20 other subscribers. Naturally, the lower the contention ratio, the better the service with less chance of slow downs or interruptions. However, low contention ratio service comes with a premium of higher monthly subscription costs. I recommend a contention ratio of 25:1 or smaller for consistent, reliable service. HughesNet does not publicize the contention ratios of their various levels of service. You will have to contact them or an authorized dealer to learn this information before subscribing. Keep in mind … that too many subscribers sharing the same bandwidth segment on the satellite leads to overcrowding which causes service slow downs, congestion and impaired service. return to faq
