StarBand
StarBand Communications, Inc. was a provider of two-way satellite broadband Internet access in the United States. It was founded in 1998 and offered services primarily to residential and small business customers in areas where terrestrial broadband options like cable or DSL were unavailable or limited.
StarBand utilized satellite technology to transmit and receive data, enabling customers to access the internet, email, and other online services. The service required a satellite dish and associated equipment installed at the customer's location.
The company faced challenges related to the cost of satellite bandwidth, installation expenses, and competition from emerging technologies like wireless broadband. StarBand eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2003 and was acquired by Gilat Satellite Networks. The StarBand service was discontinued in 2006. While no longer operational, StarBand played a role in the early development and adoption of satellite internet technology in the United States, offering a connectivity solution for users in rural and underserved areas.