For companies working in rural Canada, the northern territories, or remote spots, good internet is more than a perk. It is a lifeline. In 2026, being online is a must for any business to survive. Yet, old-school internet cables often fail to reach these far-off places. This leaves thousands of Canadian firms stuck. They either fight with slow, choppy service or have no way to get online at all.
This is where business satellite internet providers step in. These brands use smart tech in space to bring high-speed web to any spot with a clear view of the sky. Thanks to new Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, things have changed fast. Businesses can now get speeds and low lag times that people once thought were impossible for satellite tech.
This guide looks at the top business satellite providers in Canada for 2026. We will compare their plans, how well they work, what they cost, and how real companies use them. Whether you run a mine in Nunavut, a farm in rural Saskatchewan, or a building site in the North, we can help. We will show you how to find the best satellite fix for your specific business needs.
Why Canadian Businesses Choose Satellite Internet
Canada is a massive country. We have over 41 million square kilometers of land, and much of it is empty. Because the land is so big, it is often too hard or too expensive to lay fiber or copper cables in every region. For this reason, satellite business internet is now the top choice for firms that need to stay online in remote areas.
Key Advantages for Canadian Businesses
- Total Coverage: It’s the only Business internet that reaches every single corner of Canada. This includes the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut. It works in rural spots where cable and fiber simply do not exist. This helps firms keep working no matter where they are.
- Fast Setup: Setting up a standard internet line can take months. Sometimes, it is just not possible. Satellite internet is different. It can be up and running within a few days of your order. You just need a pro to install the dish and the modem.
- No Ground Wires: Satellite signals do not rely on wires or poles on the ground. These things often break because of bad weather, animals, or old age. Since the tech is “off the grid,” it stays up and running when other systems might fail.
- Easy to Grow: It is very simple to add new locations to your plan. This makes satellites perfect for companies with many different sites spread across remote areas.
- Modern Tech: Today’s LEO satellite groups are fast. They offer speeds that rival the internet you get in a big city. The lag is low enough for smooth video calls, clear phone chats over the web (VoIP), and using cloud apps for work. As providers launch more and better satellites, these systems just keep getting faster.
Top Business Satellite Internet Providers in Canada
| Provider | Download Speeds | Latency | Data Plans | Coverage | Best For |
| Starlink Business | Up to 400+ Mbps (gigabit in 2026) | 20-40ms | 50GB-2TB priority + unlimited standard | All Canada including territories | Highest performance, mobile operations |
| Xplore | 50-100 Mbps | 600-800ms | 350-500GB + unlimited at reduced speeds | All inhabited areas of Canada | Cost-conscious, local support, reliable GEO |
| Viasat Business | 25-150 Mbps | 500-700ms | Varies by plan + Office Hours unlimited | 96% of North America | Business hours users, backup connectivity |
1. Starlink Business
Overview
Starlink Business, run by SpaceX, is currently the top choice for business satellite internet in Canada. It uses a huge group of over 9,422 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites which are only to increase in numbers. These fly about 550 km above the ground. Because they are so close, Starlink provides fiber-like speeds. It also has very low lag, usually between 20 and 40 milliseconds. This makes the service great for heavy tasks like video calls, cloud work, and moving large files.
Plans and Pricing
Starlink has different “Priority” plans built for business needs:
- Local Priority 50GB: CAD $94/month – This is best for a backup link or very small firms that do not use much data. You get priority access for your first 50GB each month.
- Local Priority 500GB: CAD $238/month – This fits small offices with light data needs. It easily supports 2 to 4 users.
- Local Priority 1TB: CAD $418/month – A great choice for midsize firms with average needs. It works well for 5 to 10 users doing daily tasks.
- Local Priority 2TB: CAD $778/month – Built for midsize firms with high data needs. It supports 10 to 20 users who use the web heavily.
Equipment Cost: To get business service, you must buy the Starlink Performance Kit. This costs about CAD $2,150. The kit includes a high-end dish, a power supply, cables, and tools to mount it. The hardware is very tough. It has top-tier waterproof ratings and works in weather from -40°C up to 60°C.
Note: All plans offer unlimited “Standard Data” after you use your priority gigabytes. However, your speeds might slow down if the network gets very busy.
Features
- Download Speeds: You can currently get over 400 Mbps. By the end of 2026, network updates should bring “gigabit” speeds without needing new gear.
- Low Lag: With 20–40ms latency, tools like Zoom, Teams, and VoIP phones work perfectly.
- Network Priority: Business users get “first dibs” on bandwidth. This keeps speeds steady even when many home users are online.
- Use on the Move: The dish can work while moving. This is perfect for trucks, tractors, or emergency vehicles.
- Public IP: It supports dynamic IPv4 and IPv6 for firms that need to log in to their systems from far away.
- Manage Many Sites: You can track all your locations through one simple web portal.
- Built to Last: The dish can handle winds over 270 kph. The metal case is built to last 10 years and comes with a 3-year warranty.
- 24/7 Support: Business clients get fast help and a dedicated account manager if they have many sites.
Who Is It For?
Starlink Business is for any firm that needs the best satellite speeds like internet for remote bars cafe or internet for restaurant. It is a perfect fit for builders at remote sites or farmers using smart tech and IoT. It also works well for shops and hotels in the wild, oil and gas crews, and schools in the North. If your business needs clear video calls and fast cloud apps, Starlink feels just like the internet in a big city.
| ProsFastest speeds in the industry (400+ Mbps) with even faster speeds coming soon.Very low lag (20–40ms) for real-time work.No hard data caps; you get unlimited standard data.You can set it up yourself to save time and money.Works while driving or moving between job sites.Tough gear made for the freezing Canadian winter.More satellites are launched often, making the service better.A 30-day trial lets you get your money back if you don’t like it. | ConsHigh starting cost (CAD $3,200 for the kit).Monthly fees are higher than city cable or fiber.Needs a clear view of the sky; trees or tall buildings can block the signal.Busy areas might see extra fees of CAD $500 to $1,000.Speeds can shift depending on how many people are using the local beam. |
Why We Chose It
We picked Starlink Business as our top choice because it is fast, has low lag, and stays reliable, where none of other business internet providers can reach with that speed and reliability. Its LEO design offers a level of power that old satellites just can’t match. It makes hard tasks, which used to be impossible on satellite, look easy. With over 9.2 million users and a plan to keep growing, Starlink is a safe bet for the long haul. The startup cost is high, but for a remote Canadian business that needs to stay online, the value is well worth the price.
2. Xplore (Powered by JUPITER 3)
Overview
Xplore, once known as Xplornet, is Canada’s own satellite internet firm. They have spent over twenty years helping rural communities stay online. The company started in Woodstock, New Brunswick, in 2004. Xplore is known for knowing exactly what Canadian rural firms need to succeed. They recently boosted their service by using the JUPITER 3 satellite. This is the biggest commercial communications satellite ever made. It sits 36,000 km above the Earth in a fixed spot. It covers all lived-in parts of Canada, including the most remote spots in the North.
Plans and Pricing
Xplore offers simple plans built for Canadian businesses:
- Sat 50 Plan: CAD $99.99/month (after a $20 credit for one year) – This gives you 50 Mbps down and 5 Mbps up. You get 350GB of fast data each month. It works well for small firms that need to browse, email, and do video calls.
- Sat 100 Plan: CAD $129.99/month – This gives you 100 Mbps down and 10 Mbps up. You get 500GB of fast data each month. This is great for firms with more users who need to stream, use the cloud, or make clear video calls.
Equipment and Installation: Xplore gives you all the gear you need (dish, modem, and router) for free upfront. A local pro will set it up for you at no extra cost. This saves you a lot of money compared to brands that make you buy the gear.
Unlimited Data: After you use your fast data for the month, you still have the internet. It will just be a bit slower. There are no surprise fees for using too much data.
Contract Terms: Xplore has flexible plans with no long-term contracts. They also give you a 30-day trial to see if you like the service.
Features
- JUPITER 3 Tech: This is the most modern “fixed” satellite in North America. It is faster and more stable than older satellites.
- Professional Setup: Local experts set up your dish the right way. This is key for tough Canadian weather and land.
- Canadian-Based Support: Help is ready 24/7. The agents are in Canada, speak both English and French, and know your local needs.
+1 - Wide Coverage: You can get it in every province and territory. It works in spots where moving satellites might be blocked by trees or hills.
- Steady Link: These satellites stay in one spot in the sky. This means your link is steady and won’t drop out.
- New Router: You get a Wi-Fi 6 router. It helps the internet reach every room in your building.
- Multi-Tech Provider: Xplore also has fiber and 5G in some spots. This lets you switch to faster lines if they come to your area later.
Who Is It For?
Xplore is best for Canadian firms that want a steady link, local help, and low costs. It is perfect for small rural firms that don’t want to pay a lot of money upfront. It also helps firms in deep woods or valleys where moving satellites might lose their signal. If you value a Canadian brand with local experts, Xplore is a great fit.
| ProsNo cost for gear upfront, which saves you money.Pro setup is included to make sure it works well.100% Canadian-based help available at any time.No long-term contracts and a 30-day trial.Steady link from a fixed satellite spot in the sky.Good prices with special deals for new users.Unlimited data with no extra fees for going over.A Canadian firm that supports local jobs. | ConsHigh lag (600-800ms) makes some live apps hard to use.Slower top speeds than some other brands like Starlink.Speeds drop once you use up your monthly fast data.Not the best for live video calls or web conferencing software. |
Why We Chose It
We picked Xplore as a top Canadian choice because they make it easy and cheap to get online. They don’t charge for gear or setup. This helps small firms start out without a big bill. While it isn’t as fast as some new tech, it is a solid choice from a brand that has served Canada for 20 years. For firms that care about their budget and local support, Xplore is a top pick.
3. Viasat Business
Overview
Viasat Business runs one of the world’s most advanced satellite networks. It includes the strong JUPITER 3 system and the new ViaSat-3 satellites. With over 35 years in the game, Viasat offers high-end web tools for firms across North America. Their “Business Choice” plans are made for Canadian firms that need a steady link, smart data management, and expert support. With many satellites and ground sites, they keep you online even in the toughest spots.
Plans and Pricing
Viasat has several plans based on how much speed your business needs:
- Business Choice Plans: Prices change based on where you are and the speed you pick (from 25 Mbps to 150 Mbps). Each plan comes with a set amount of high-speed data. Since prices are not the same for every town, you should visit their site for a custom quote.
- Office Hours Feature: Some plans let you use unlimited data during work hours (8 AM to 5 PM local time). This covers work tools like email, VPNs, and CRM software. It does not count for videos or games. This helps you stay busy without worrying about your data limit.
- Business Backup Plans: If you already have a cable or fiber line, Viasat has “backup” plans. These turn on only if your main line goes out. This keeps your business running no matter what.
- Additional Costs: If you run out of fast data, you can buy a “Data Boost.” You also have to pay a small monthly fee to lease the gear.
Features
- Speed Options: Depending on your plan, you can get download speeds from 25 Mbps up to 150 Mbps.
- Work Day Data: The “Office Hours” perk gives you unlimited data during the day for work apps.
- Priority Traffic: Work tasks and phone calls get “first place” on the network. This makes sure your most important tools work well.
- Security: Viasat has built-in safety tools to protect your firm from online threats.
- Business-Class Support: You get a special help team that is ready seven days a week. They know that for a business, time is money.
- Viasat Voice: You can add a business phone plan. It gives you unlimited calls to Canada and all 50 U.S. states.
- Fast Setup: Pro installers usually get you online within 3 to 5 business days after you order.
Who Is It For?
Viasat Business is a great fit for larger firms that need expert support and features built for work. It is also the best choice for companies that need a “Plan B” internet link in case their main one fails. If your team works mostly during the day, the “Office Hours” unlimited data can save you a lot of money. It is also good for firms that make many calls to the United States.
| ProsThe Office Hours feature gives you unlimited data for work apps from 8 AM to 5 PM.One of the best backup options to keep your office online during outages.Important work apps get priority so they stay fast.Built-in security helps keep your data safe.Special business support team is available every day of the week.You can easily add a phone line for a full office setup. | ConsYou have to ask for a quote to see the final price.High lag (500-700ms) because the satellites are very far away.Service might not be available in every single part of Canada yet.You have to pay a monthly fee for the gear.Not as fast as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) options like Starlink. |
Why We Chose It
We included Viasat because it is built for the “enterprise” world. While it might not be the fastest, its features, like Office Hours and Backup plans, show they understand how a business works. It is a reliable, feature-heavy service backed by decades of experience. For firms that need more than just a basic link, Viasat offers the safety and support they need to stay productive.
How to Choose the Best Satellite Internet Provider
Picking the best satellite internet for your Canadian business takes more than just looking at the price. You need to think about how a provider fits your daily work, your budget, and your goals for the future. Instead of just chasing the fastest speed, use these steps to find the right match.
1. Look at Your Business Needs
- Number of Users: Count how many people will be online at the same time. If it is just you, a basic plan is fine. If you have 10 or more staff members, you will need a plan with more power.
- App Needs: List the tools you use most. Email and web surfing work on almost any plan. However, video calls, web phone system (VoIP), and cloud software need low lag. For these, LEO options like Starlink are usually better.
- Data Habits: Look at how much data you use each month. If you work mainly during the day, Viasat’s “Office Hours” perk is great. If you are online 24/7, consider Starlink’s unlimited data or Xplore’s flexible limits.
- Mobility: Do you stay in one spot, or do you move around? Building crews, farmers, and emergency teams often need internet while driving. In these cases, the Starlink Business kit is a top choice because it works on the move.
2. Check the Total Cost
- Startup Costs: Gear costs can range from $0 (Xplore includes it) to over CAD $3,200 (Starlink). If you don’t want to spend a lot of money today, look for brands that include the dish for free.
- Monthly Fees: Compare the price to the features you get. A plan that looks pricey might actually be a better deal if it has no data caps and offers faster help when things go wrong.
- Hidden Fees: Watch out for extra costs. These can include setup fees, monthly gear rent, fees for using too much data, or costs for leaving a contract early.
- Long-Term Value: Think about what you will pay over the next three to five years. Brands that don’t use long contracts are less risky. If a brand wants a long commitment, make sure the value is worth it.
3. Check Your Spot and Signal
- Local Reach: Make sure the provider actually works at your specific address. While Starlink and Xplore cover almost all of Canada. Always use the provider’s website to check your address first.
- View of the Sky: Your site needs a clear view of the sky with no trees or buildings in the way. In Canada, LEO satellites (like Starlink) usually need to see the northern sky. Older satellites (like Xplore or Viasat) usually need to see the south.
- Land Challenges: If you are in a deep valley or a thick forest, a “fixed” satellite might work better. Since these stay in one spot, they can be easier to track than moving satellites that need a wide, open view to stay connected.
Final Words
For Top Speed: If you need the best speed and the lowest lag, Starlink Business is the winner. It costs more upfront, but its power is unmatched.
- For Best Value: If you want to keep costs low and talk to local Canadian experts, Xplore is a great fit. With 20 years of experience and no upfront gear costs, they make getting online easy.
- For Office Features: If you need specific perks like unlimited data during work hours or a solid backup link, Viasat Business is the right move.
Need a hand? Contact the experts at CanComCo. We help Canadian firms navigate the satellite world to find the perfect match for their location and budget. Don’t let your location hold you back, get connected today. CanComCo specializes in helping Canadian businesses identify and implement optimal connectivity solutions for remote and rural operations. Our team of experts stays current with the rapidly evolving satellite internet landscape to provide authoritative guidance supporting your business success.
How long does it take to get satellite internet installed?
The time it takes depends on your provider and if you need a pro to help. If you pick a self-install option like Starlink Business, you can be online within days of getting your gear. Many users even set it up the same day it arrives. Professional setups (like those from Xplore, or Viasat) are usually booked within 3 to 5 business days. If you are in a very remote spot or the weather is bad, it might take 7 to 10 days. It is a good idea to order your service 2 to 3 weeks before you truly need it.
Is satellite internet reliable for important business tasks?
Yes. Modern systems, especially those using LEO satellites like Starlink, are very reliable. They often stay online more than 99% of the time. However, very heavy snow or rain can sometimes weaken the signal. This is known as “rain fade.” For tasks that can never go offline, we suggest having a backup, like a cellular link.
What gear do I need, and do I own it?
This changes based on which company you choose:
- Starlink Business: You buy the “Performance Kit” for about CAD $3,200. You own the dish and router completely.
- Xplore: They give you the gear for $0 upfront, but they still own it. You must give it back if you cancel.
- Viasat: You usually rent the gear for a small monthly fee (CAD $10–$15) and return it when you are done. In the long run, buying your gear saves money, but renting is better if you only need the internet for a short time.
Is satellite internet more expensive than fiber or cable?
Yes, it usually costs more. In a city, fiber might cost $100 to $300 a month. Satellite costs range from CAD $94 to $778 a month. However, in remote areas, there is often no cable or fiber at all. Building a new fiber line to a remote mine or farm can cost over $50,000. Compared to that huge cost, satellite’s monthly fee is actually a very good deal for getting high-speed web in the wild.
Can I use one account for multiple business locations?
Yes. Satellite is great for firms with many sites. Starlink Business lets you track all your locations through one web portal. You will need a separate dish and plan for each spot, but having one bill and one login makes it very easy to manage. This is perfect for construction crews with many job sites or retail chains in small towns.
What happens if my business moves to a new spot?
If you own your gear (like with Starlink), you can just take it with you. You only need to update your address in your online account. If you rent your gear (like with Xplore or Viasat), a pro might need to come out to move the dish for you. This could cost between $100 and $300. Always check if your new address has a clear view of the sky before you move.
Does the government help pay for rural internet?
Canada has programs like the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to help bring the web to remote spots. While these programs usually give money to the internet providers rather than individual shops, some provinces have their own deals. For example, Ontario has funded satellite projects in the past. It is worth calling your local economic board to see if there are any new grants or low-interest loans for tech in your area.
How does 5G compare to satellite internet?
They are both good, but for different things. 5G is often faster, cheaper, and has less lag, but it only works near cell towers (mostly in or near cities). Satellites work anywhere you can see the sky. Many firms use both: they use 5G as their main link and satellite as a backup. As 5G grows in Canada, more businesses will likely use a mix of both to stay online.
What are the upload speeds like?
Upload speeds (sending data out) are usually slower than download speeds.
- Starlink Business (LEO): Offers the best speeds, usually between 20 and 40 Mbps. This is great for video calls and sending big files.
- Fixed Satellites (Xplore, Viasat): Usually offer 3 to 10 Mbps. This is fine for email and browsing, but it might struggle if many people are on video calls at once. If your business sends a lot of data to the cloud, a LEO provider is your best bet.
