No, they are distinct entities. Starlink and Viasat both provide satellite internet services to residential and business clients in the U.S. and internationally, yet their similarities largely stop there. Viasat operates out of Carlsbad, CA, while Starlink, a division of SpaceX, is based in Hawthorne, CA. Both companies are American entities.

Viasat employs satellite technology utilizing large satellites positioned approximately 22,000 miles above Earth. Conversely, Starlink utilizes thousands of smaller satellites in low Earth orbit, which significantly reduces latency in transmission times. Viasat mandates a contract; Starlink does not. However, Viasat offers plan options that are more affordable than Starlink's, as well as premium plans with higher speeds that, in certain locations, rival Starlink’s download speeds. Starlink requires customers to purchase an equipment package upfront and undertake self-installation, with the residential equipment package priced at $599. On the other hand, Viasat does not necessitate equipment purchase but charges a $200 professional installation fee. Depending on your specific location and needs, either service could be a viable choice for your internet requirements, especially if other broadband options are not readily accessible.