We’ll be upfront: Viasat is expensive. At $110 a month, it costs roughly double what you’d pay for cable internet in a city. But if you live in a rural area where cable and fiber don’t reach — and a lot of older adults do — Viasat might be your only realistic option for getting online.
We tested satellite internet at a home in rural Montana where the nearest cable hookup was 12 miles away. The service worked. Video calls with family connected, Netflix streamed, and emails went through. It wasn’t as fast or as cheap as what city dwellers get, but it was real internet, and for some people, that’s what matters most. Questions? Reach out to us at hello@seniorslist.com — we read every email.
Editor’s Rating: 3.5 / 5
Viasat Internet: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Nationwide coverage: Available in all 50 states, unlike cable and fiber providers with limited service maps.
- Truly unlimited data: No hard caps — usage is not cut off at a threshold, though speeds may slow during congested periods.
- One-year price lock: The annual plan holds your rate steady for the first 12 months.
- Professional installation: A certified Viasat technician handles all setup at no charge in most cases.
- Phone and internet bundles: Viasat Voice landline service can be bundled with internet and includes battery backup during power outages.
Cons
- Expensive: Starting at $109.99/month for annual subscribers, Viasat costs more than many competing satellite options including Hughesnet.
- Data throttling during congestion: Speeds can slow during peak usage hours in your area.
- Early termination fees: Canceling an annual plan before 12 months costs $15 per remaining month.
Viasat Internet Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Download Speeds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $119.99 | Up to 59 Mbps | No long-term commitment; price may change |
| Annual | $109.99 (first 12 months), then $119.99 | Up to 59 Mbps | Price locked for first year; $15/month ETF if canceled early |
Which Viasat Plan Is Best for Seniors?
There is no dedicated senior discount, though speaking with Viasat’s customer service team can sometimes yield promotional pricing for older subscribers. Between the two available plans, the annual option offers the best value for the first year, with a $10/month savings over the monthly rate. After the initial 12 months, both plans cost the same.
How to Sign Up for Viasat
Visit Viasat’s website and enter your home address to confirm availability and view local plan options. You can also call them directly to place an order. During signup, you will choose between a $250 lifetime lease fee or a $15/month equipment lease, and select an installation date. A credit check (soft pull only, no impact to your score) is required.
Viasat Installation Experience
Viasat sends a certified technician to assess your property and determine the best satellite dish placement. The technician runs all necessary cables, installs the dish, and configures the indoor Wi-Fi Gateway — which includes the modem, router, and VoIP phone adapter. The full process typically takes about two hours. The technician also helps you activate your Viasat account before you sign the electronic service agreement.
Add-On Services
- Viasat Voice: A landline over internet calling service covering all 50 states and Canada. Costs $35/month standalone, or $25/month for the first three months when bundled with internet.
- Viasat Shield: Cybersecurity monitoring and malware protection for $8.99/month.
- EasyCare: Priority technical support for $9.99/month.
Viasat vs. Hughesnet
Both are satellite providers, but Hughesnet is considerably more affordable:
| Feature | Viasat | Hughesnet |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $109.99/month | $49.99/month |
| Fastest Speeds | 59 Mbps | 100 Mbps |
| Minimum Contract | Monthly | 24 months |
| Data Throttling | During congestion | After 100–200 GB |
| Equipment Purchase | $250 | $299.99 |
| Equipment Lease | $15/month | $14.99/month |
Hughesnet is cheaper and actually faster in its higher tiers, though it requires a two-year commitment. Viasat’s monthly plan option is more flexible for seniors who do not want to be locked in.
Bottom Line
Viasat is the right choice when no other option exists. For seniors in rural areas without access to cable, fiber, or reliable 5G coverage, it provides dependable internet access across all 50 states. For those with other options available, broadband or 5G providers offer faster speeds at significantly lower prices. Explore our guide to the best internet providers for seniors before committing to Viasat.