No, you can’t self-install Viasat equipment. Some people absolutely prefer to do equipment installations themselves and if that’s you then your best bet is either to look into Starlink availability in your area (wait times are common) because those kits require self-installation, or, to rethink the possibility of having a trained and certified professional Viasat installer perform the installation.

The reason behind the rule against self-installation is that the satellite signal equipment if mishandled can malfunction. The equipment must be handled correctly and must be properly aligned for the best signal. You will definitely want and need the best signal you can get. Viasat technicians can handle pretty much any scenario around non-standard installations including a pole mount or a workaround when a hole can’t be drilled into the structure to pass the satellite cable to the modem inside. In such unusual cases the trained technician can perform workarounds.

The cost of a standard Installation from Viasat is $99.99 and that cost gets included when you sign a two-year service agreement. If you bristle at a contract then you can still be a Viasat customer but you’ll pay a $300 fee up front, non-refundable, and pay separately for installation. But it’s worth noting that you won’t sign a service contract or pay the first bill until after the equipment is installed and tested by the service technician. So you won’t be locked into a commitment prior to seeing for yourself that everything is working properly at your home.

In the contract the Viasat plan will start off with a lower incentive price for the first three months and then increase to the regular rate thereafter. This is similar to other internet providers or TV service provider deals. All the service plans clearly state both rates in the offer itself and in the fine print. In addition you have to pay an equipment lease fee of about $10 per month and an additional Service Fee that is determined by the plan you choose.

Should you disconnect from Viasat before the end of your 24-month agreement you will pay $15 per month for each month remaining on the service term (as of this writing). If you cancel within the first month of service you will be charged $360 as an early termination fee. It makes sense to pay attention to details as you begin your relationship with Viasat and ask as many questions as you can think of and even take notes. Viasat wants you to be a happy customer and will work hard to keep your business. Viasat does not allow a trial period to test drive the internet service primarily because professional installation costs are high. It’s also recommended that you download the Viasat phone app right away to easily track your data usage and to find help for any issues.