Yes, you can choose to use your own router. Any Wi-Fi router is compatible with Viasat. Either way, you will still need a Viasat modem to connect to Viasat satellite internet via your satellite dish. This means that the Viasat equipment lease fee will be charged even if you use your own router. Because of that, it is recommended that you use the Viasat Wi-Fi Gateway, a Wi-Fi enabled modem, since it is complementary in your Viasat equipment lease.

Can I Use My Own Router to Create a Home Network with Viasat Internet?

Yes. While any Wi-Fi router can be used with Viasat internet to create a home network, the Viasat installation includes a Viasat modem with built-in wireless functionality that is already capable of creating a home network that can connect all of your Wi-Fi capable devices to the internet.

If I Use My Own Router, Can I Get Help with Setup?

Yes. Whether you use the router provided by Viasat or your own, the Viasat website has many helpful guides to walk you through how to set up your router for use with Viasat internet. These guides can also help you manage your system’s advanced security features. If you still can’t find the information you’re looking for, the Viasat Community Forum is full of experienced users and Viasat moderators who would be happy to help you with your questions.

If I Use My Own Router, Can I Turn Off the Viasat Wi-Fi?

Yes, it is recommended to turn off the Wi-Fi on your Viasat Wi-Fi Gateway if you wish to use your own Wi-Fi router, since otherwise you would have both wireless networks running at the same time. This isn’t a big problem, but you may not need both networks. If you wish to extend the reach of your Wi-Fi signal, it is common to plug additional routers into the ports of your Viasat modem.

If I Use My Own Router With Viasat Internet, Can I Add Extra Security Features?

Any security features available on your router should be compatible with Viasat internet and Viasat strongly encourages you to take advantage of those features. Router security features are great for preventing others from stealing your internet, using up your data and slowing down your speeds. More importantly, security features can help protect your personal information, preventing all sorts of problems, such as identity theft.

There are some common security features that Viasat recommends you use whenever you set up a router. A unique password is a must. This makes it harder for hackers to get into your system. In addition, you can turn off SSID (Service Set Identifier). When on, this makes the name of your home network public. Turning this off will make your network invisible, so users in your home will need to know how to connect to it. Changing these features will require you also update your connected devices to be compatible with the new set up.