Dish unveils dishNET broadband, uses sattelites to provide high-speed internet to rural areas

Users who live in rural parts of the United States will soon be able to get on the internet quite a bit quicker. DISH, one of the large US satellite TV providers, has launched a new internet service under the dishNET brand. Incredibly, the new service provides internet speeds of about double the average residential connection.

"Many unserved and underserved markets are years away from a telco or cable broadband build out, but dishNET is available today," said Brian McIntyre, vice president of Broadband at DISH. "These services will have powerful, positive impacts for kids, educators, businesses, farmers and families -- no matter how far out of town they may choose to live."

As of October 1, users will be able to obtain a 5Mbps down/1Mbps up data connection for $39.99 a month with two year contract. That price does not include equipment fees. Unfortunately, there is a 10GB data cap on that line. Stepping up to $49.99/month yields a 10/1Mbps connection with a 20GB data cap.

To get the pricing shown above, you'll need the previously mentioned two-year contract. You'll also need to bundle the service with Dish's "America's top 120" package, or any more expensive TV package. Installation is free for any customer, new or existing, as long as the service is bundled with TV. Otherwise, you'll be looking at a $99 charge.