Although the cause of the damage is still under investigation, the impact was immediate. Telecommunications providers began looking for alternative solutions, and then satellite internet came to the rescue. Companies such as Intelsat have demonstrated the potential of a hybrid Internet system that uses both undersea cables and space communications, using networks of orbiting satellites to reroute traffic.
This hybrid approach has many advantages. First of all, it provides redundancy. When cables fail, satellites seamlessly step in, minimizing downtime and providing relatively stable Internet access. Reece Morgan, Intelsat’s regional vice president, underlines this advantage, saying that if there is a problem with the terrestrial network, Internet access for subsea customers can be restored within 15 minutes.
Second, a hybrid system can offer greater coverage. Submarine cables have limitations: They are geographically limited due to their physical route. Satellites, on the other hand, can transmit internet to remote areas where cable infrastructure is not available.
The time frame for repairing damaged cables remains unclear: Experts estimate it will take up to eight weeks. During this period, satellites will play an important role in maintaining internet communication.
Source: Ferra
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