To say we have become completely dependent on the internet is an understatement to say the least. It is our online lifeline, our meme supplier, our escape and our work-from-home assistant. But seriously, in certain parts of South Africa, obtaining a stable connection can be like attempting to stream Netflix on a really old PC. Meet Starlink, Elon Musk's ambitious satellite internet initiative that aims to “beam” speedy internet from space. But what is Starlink, when is it coming to South Africa, and how will it change the South African internet service provider scene? Strap yourselves in, as we're about to enter the realm of satellite internet.

So, what is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite constellation for the internet made by SpaceX (the same company that launches rockets and wants to go to Mars). Instead of using cables underground or cell towers, Starlink brings the internet straight to your home with thousands of satellites in low-earth orbit (LEO) via a small dish.

Starlink runs more than 5,000 satellites orbiting the planet, the largest satellite constellation ever.

The satellites move very rapidly, each orbit taking only 90 minutes. That is faster than your typical power-cut schedule.

It's possible that an internet service provider like us could team up with Starlink and provide bundled packages. Just imagine in 5 years time, we could have "Fibre vs Starlink" debate’s instead of the old "PS5 vs Xbox" debate - but with additional buffering jokes.

Everything we know

South Africa needs an Electronic Communications Service (ECS) license to run ISPs, and Starlink has not yet been given one. ICASA (our telecoms regulator) is taking this matter very seriously and has noted with grave concern recent reports suggesting that Starlink might be operating in South Africa without the authorisation. Some tech-savvy South Africans already import Starlink kits from nearby nations like Zambia or Mozambique. Is this legal? No. TechCentral has reported that ICASA intends to clamp down on this 'illegal' operation of Starlink satellite internet services in the country.

Official launch?

According to Forbes, it's rumoured that Starlink could launch in South Africa in late 2025. We're waiting for ICASA to give us the go-ahead. TechCentral is not on the same page with this timeline and state it might take about 2 years or even longer.

We have learned from MyBroadBand that SpaceX has pledged R500 million to deliver free broadband Internet to South African schools, a strategic investment aimed at securing regulatory approval for Starlink.

Did you know?

The service is already live in Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and more than 70 other countries, so South Africa is behind the curve.

How Starlink might potentially alter things for South Africans

The good stuff

1. Rural and underserved areas: If you're in an area where Openserve doesn't offer service, Starlink would be a great assistance. You don't need to wait for fibre, just install your dish and you're online.

2. Load-shedding proof: Starlink dish consumes about 50-75W - this implies that a small solar installation or UPS will keep you connected during outages.

The not-so-good stuff

1. The initial outlay for the equipment is costly, and the monthly fees are more expensive than most fibre packages. We're talking R 8,000 - R12,000 for the equipment alone and R800 - R1,200 a month for the service.

2. Bad weather: heavy rainfall can interfere with satellite signals (though Starlink handles it more effectively than traditional satellite internet).

How will it affect ISPs like Afrihost?

Starlink isn't going to replace Fibre or LTE. It's here to compete, especially where the existing internet players have fallen short. Here's how it can play out:

1. Fibre ISPs will remain the preferred option in urban areas where fibre is cost-effective and fast. However, if Starlink drops its prices in rural areas, Fibre Network Operators might need to expand more rapidly.

2. Mobile Networks: LTE and 5G will still be the best for cellular use, but Starlink could poach some users of this service.

Final decision: to wait for Starlink or not?

If you're in an area that has good Fibre internet, it may be a good idea to keep it, but you’ll have some options. You already have the installation and equipment. However, if you live in a rural area or have a bad connection, Starlink might be the internet for you in the near future. One thing is certain - the South African internet space is about to become a whole lot more interesting. Let’s stay tuned as we wait for the final verdict on the potential launch.