WildBlue

About WildBlue

Viasat, a global communications company, previously operated a satellite internet service under the brand name WildBlue. This service was a key player in providing broadband access to rural and underserved areas of the United States where terrestrial options were limited or unavailable. The genesis of WildBlue dates back to 2000, when the company was founded to address the digital divide. It was later acquired by Viasat (then ViaSat Inc.) in 2009 for approximately $568 million, a strategic move that significantly expanded Viasat's residential broadband footprint and technological capabilities in the satellite internet market.

The service operated by utilizing Ka-band satellite technology to deliver internet connectivity directly to consumers' homes via a small satellite dish and modem. This model was crucial for individuals and businesses located outside the reach of cable or DSL infrastructure. The business generated revenue through monthly subscription fees from its residential and small business customers, offering various service tiers based on data allowances and speed. WildBlue's core offering was its high-speed internet service, which at the time of its operation, provided a vital connection for remote work, education, and entertainment. Following the acquisition, Viasat integrated WildBlue's operations and subscriber base, eventually rebranding the service as part of its own Viasat Internet offerings, leveraging its next-generation satellite fleet to enhance speeds and capacity. While the WildBlue brand itself has been phased out, its legacy lies in pioneering satellite internet for the mass market and forming a foundational component of what is now Viasat's extensive satellite internet service.