Living off-grid in Spain doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice internet access. Fortunately, several internet options allow you to stay connected, even in remote areas. Let’s explore the best ways to get internet while living off-grid in Spain, focusing on satellite services like Starlink, mobile data, and other alternatives.
1. Satellite Internet
Satellite internet is ideal for off-grid living, as it doesn’t rely on traditional infrastructure like phone lines or fiber cables. One of the most popular options for satellite internet is Starlink, a high-speed, low-latency satellite service provided by SpaceX.
- Starlink: Starlink has revolutionized satellite internet with its global coverage and fast speeds. With satellites in low Earth orbit, it provides internet access to rural and off-grid locations with speeds ranging from 50 to 200 Mbps. The setup involves purchasing a Starlink dish, which you can easily install yourself. One downside is the upfront cost, which can be high, but the monthly service fees are competitive compared to other satellite providers.
Other satellite providers include:
- HughesNet: While not as fast as Starlink, HughesNet is a traditional satellite provider offering slower speeds but more affordable pricing. It is widely available in remote areas across Europe.
- Viasat: Viasat offers various data plans depending on your internet needs, making it another option for those living in rural parts of Spain. Although the speeds are slower compared to Starlink, Viasat’s pricing can be attractive for light internet users.
2. Mobile Internet (4G/5G)
Another viable option is using mobile internet via 4G or 5G networks. Many Spanish carriers offer 4G mobile internet with coverage across most of the country, even in rural areas. 5G is rolling out in Spain, though coverage is still concentrated in urban areas.
You can set up a 4G router or use a MiFi device to distribute mobile internet to all your devices. Look for data plans offering large or unlimited data allowances.
- Vodafone: Vodafone Spain offers a solid 4G network with wide coverage and several data plan options. Their 5G network is expanding, and their data SIM cards work well in routers for home use.
- Orange: Orange also has good 4G and 5G coverage in Spain. They offer both prepaid and contract mobile data plans, and they allow for easy integration with mobile routers.
3. WiMax
WiMax is a wireless broadband technology that provides internet access over long distances using microwave signals. It can be an excellent option for off-grid homes close to cities or towns that support WiMax infrastructure. However, WiMax’s availability in rural Spain is limited and may require further investigation.
4. Line-of-Sight Broadband
In some regions, fixed wireless broadband services are available. These services rely on line-of-sight signals from a nearby transmitter, offering speeds similar to ADSL or fiber. The key challenge is ensuring that your off-grid location has a clear line of sight to the transmitter.
5. Hybrid Systems
For complete redundancy, some off-grid residents combine multiple internet sources. For example, you could have Starlink for high-speed internet but also use a 4G router with a mobile data plan as a backup.
Conclusion
The best internet option for off-grid living in Spain depends on your location, internet usage, and budget. Satellite internet, particularly through Starlink, provides the most reliable and high-speed access, making it ideal for most off-grid users. However, mobile internet and line-of-sight broadband are also viable options if you are near areas with coverage.
