Deutsche Telekom AG is expanding its portfolio for business customers to include a satellite-based internet solution. With its ‘Satellite Internet Access by Starlink’ (SIA) offering, the group is integrating SpaceX’s infrastructure into its service ecosystem to ensure connectivity even in areas where traditional networks reach their limits.

Connectivity independent of terrestrial infrastructure

SIA is primarily designed to supplement or provide a backup for existing broadband connections. The service is particularly aimed at locations:

• without fibre-optic or stable mobile connections
• with increased need for reliability
• in temporary operating environments such as construction sites

As the connection is via satellite, it remains stable even during disruptions to terrestrial networks. In the event of a fault, the solution can seamlessly take over as a backup and maintain critical business processes.

Fully managed service approach

Unlike independently procured satellite solutions, Telekom offers SIA as an integrated managed service. The service portfolio includes:

• Installation and commissioning of antenna systems
• Integration into existing networks
• Operation, monitoring and support

Telekom thus acts as the central point of contact throughout the entire lifecycle. In addition, prioritised network capacity is available to ensure a stable connection even during periods of high utilisation.

Typical use cases

The solution is particularly relevant for business-critical applications, including:

• POS systems and branch connections
• Logistics and distribution sites
• Production and control systems
• Temporary infrastructure during construction phases

Practical examples show that SIA can be used as a temporary solution, for instance to connect new sites during fibre-optic roll-out. Even in crisis situations or during natural disasters, the satellite-based connection enables rapid restoration of communication capabilities.

Technological Basis

SIA is based on SpaceX’s global satellite network and utilises modern antenna technology. Key features:

• Use of a large-scale low-Earth-orbit satellite network
• Electronically steered phased-array antennas
• Data rates of up to 400 Mbit/s (download) and 40 Mbit/s (upload), depending on network load
• Latency in the range of approximately 20–60 milliseconds
• Flexible data volume models
• High availability of the satellite connection

Classification: Bridge solution and redundancy strategy

With SIA, Telekom is positioning itself in the growing market for hybrid network architectures. Satellite communication is not viewed as a replacement, but as a complement to existing technologies. The focus is on:

• Redundancy for critical infrastructure
• Bridging coverage gaps
• Increasing network resilience

Distinction from Direct-to-Device

In addition to SIA, there are other satellite-based approaches, such as Direct-to-Device (D2D). Whilst SIA represents a fixed solution for business premises, D2D aims to connect end devices such as smartphones directly without additional hardware. This technology is still under development and is intended for mobile use in the future.

Conclusion

With “Satellite Internet Access by Starlink”, Deutsche Telekom AG is expanding its offering to include a scalable satellite solution for business customers. The service specifically addresses requirements for reliability and flexible site connectivity, thereby representing a relevant complement to traditional broadband technologies – particularly in scenarios with inadequate or unstable terrestrial infrastructure.