How fast does your internet need to be for DIRECTV and DISH’s latest equipment?

Both DIRECTV and DISH have embraced the streaming world. While both companies once relied solely on satellite, they’ve both been using both satellite and internet for over a decade. Originally, both companies used the internet just for on-demand, but they have integrated streaming apps into their products. DIRECTV’s Gemini and DISH’s Hopper Plus with Joey 4 let you use all your favorite streaming apps without changing inputs or remotes. It’s a very popular solution, especially for folks who want great entertainment options in the bedroom or spare room.

But of course, streaming doesn’t work without a good internet connection. You’ll need high-speed internet or you’re just not going to get everything that a solution like this has to offer.

What is high speed anyway?

Both DIRECTV and DISH will tell you that in order to use their products, you need high-speed internet, also called broadband. The FCC is responsible for defining what “high speed internet” means. Right now, as I write this, the current definition is a download speed of 25Mbps and an upload speed of 3Mbps. There is some talk of increasing that to 50Mbps but so far that hasn’t happened.

Generally speaking, a DIRECTV or DISH installer won’t put in your equipment if the speeds are lower than the FCC definition of high speed. You can do it yourself but you may find that you’re not getting the experience you want. You might see poor picture quality, slow response from the remote, and other problems.

Is there anything you can do to fix this?

If you have low speeds, there’s a lot you can do! Signal Connect works with internet service providers throughout the country to provide high-speed internet at the best possible prices. We can help you bundle with satellite service for the most savings, too. If you’re in an area that’s not served by fiber internet, we can help with cellular solutions or even get you hooked up with Starlink. Once you have a nice, fast connection, you’ll be amazed at all the things you can do.

All you need to do from your end is call the experts. We have a team on staff who specializes in residential internet solutions. Call us during East Coast business hours at 888-233-7563. We’ll be able to help compare offers in your area to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. We can arrange for installation and set up billing, too. One call really does do it call!

What about if it’s after hours? That’s no problem either! Just fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you quickly, usually within one business day.

About the Author

Stuart Sweet
Stuart Sweet is the editor-in-chief of The Solid Signal Blog and a "master plumber" at Signal Group, LLC. He is the author of over 10,000 articles and longform tutorials including many posted here. Reach him by clicking on "Contact the Editor" at the bottom of this page.