European Alternatives to Starlink: Satellite Internet in the EU

Starlink by SpaceX has become a household name in satellite internet, offering high-speed connectivity even in remote locations. However, Europe is not standing still. Several European providers and initiatives are developing satellite internet solutions that rival Starlink, focusing on both LEO (Low Earth Orbit) and GEO (Geostationary Orbit) satellites. These services provide competitive speeds, tailored European support, and a local approach to satellite communications.

1. SkyDSL

SkyDSL is one of the oldest and most established satellite internet providers in Europe. Operating across multiple countries, SkyDSL focuses on areas with limited terrestrial broadband access. It offers reliable connectivity with packages up to 50 Mbps, using geostationary satellites to provide stable service, especially in rural regions.

2. Eutelsat Konnect and OneWeb

Eutelsat Konnect is part of Eutelsat’s broader satellite portfolio. The service provides high-speed internet to both rural and urban areas in Europe, with speeds up to 100 Mbps.

In addition, Eutelsat is collaborating with OneWeb, a global LEO satellite constellation, to compete directly with Starlink. While Starlink is known for its thousands of LEO satellites offering low latency, the Eutelsat-OneWeb collaboration aims to deliver similar high-speed, low-latency coverage, particularly for European businesses, governments, and rural communities. This combination of GEO and LEO satellites allows Europe to maintain sovereignty over its satellite internet infrastructure.

3. SES Astra / SES Broadband

SES Astra has been a major player in European satellite communications for decades. SES Broadband provides reliable internet to areas underserved by fiber or cable. While SES primarily uses geostationary satellites, the service continues to evolve with hybrid solutions incorporating next-generation LEO satellites for improved speed and latency.

4. Viasat Europe

Viasat is a global satellite internet provider with a strong presence in Europe. Viasat leverages GEO satellites to deliver high-bandwidth services suitable for streaming, video conferencing, and business applications. Their technology allows for large-scale coverage, particularly useful for rural communities and industries requiring stable internet where terrestrial options are limited.

5. Upcoming European Initiatives: ESA and EU-Backed Programs

Europe is actively investing in satellite internet initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign providers. Two major programs are worth noting:

IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite)

IRIS² is an EU-backed satellite constellation initiative designed to provide secure and resilient communication services across Europe. Expected to launch in the mid-2020s, IRIS² aims to cover both governmental and commercial needs, offering secure broadband, IoT connectivity, and emergency communications. It represents a strategic step in Europe’s independence in satellite connectivity.

ESA Satellite Initiatives

The European Space Agency (ESA) is also developing satellite-based internet and communication projects. ESA initiatives focus on both LEO and GEO technologies, enabling Europe to explore hybrid solutions for latency-sensitive applications, secure communications, and global coverage for remote areas. These programs often partner with private European companies like Eutelsat, OneWeb, and SES.

6. Other European Alternatives

In addition to satellite solutions, several LTE and 5G-based fixed wireless services provide high-speed internet to underserved areas. Examples include:

• Orange 4G/5G Home Internet
• Vodafone Fixed Wireless Access

These solutions offer lower latency than satellites, easy installation, and increasingly competitive speeds, making them viable options in rural and suburban Europe.

Conclusion

Europe is developing a robust ecosystem of satellite internet alternatives to Starlink. Providers like SkyDSL, Eutelsat Konnect, SES Astra, and Viasat already serve European households and businesses, while upcoming initiatives such as IRIS² and the Eutelsat-OneWeb collaboration promise to strengthen Europe’s digital sovereignty. Combined with LTE/5G home internet options, European users can expect more choice, higher reliability, and competitive connectivity in the coming years.