Bi-Directional IP Over Satellite?

Kranky asks: "My company is looking at doing bi-directional TCP/IP over satellite, ie. data over satellite with a satellite backhaul as opposed to modem backhaul, and being the solo IT pleb here I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for gear to use to achieve the goal or if they'd done similar and could give any pointers. Basically we're looking at 512kb/s [in both] directions and I'm wondering what sort of gear we'll need for the link, as well as any tips towards curing the inevitable latency issues. I assume there will be a cache and routers at either end (remote site will use us for internet access) but having never come across doing this whole IP over satellite thing before I have no real idea what we'll need. Any recommendations, pointers, or links would be appreciated."

Comments

here's the info you need

[Anonymous Coward]

what sort of gear we'll need for the link

A satellite dish, and a satellite. Don't forget the satellite, many people forget this essential device.

any tips towards curing the inevitable latency issues

Simply change the speed of light on your immediate area, and latency issues are solved!

I think this is enough to get you started! Hope this helps!!

Re:here's the info you need

[aminorex]

Now most network engineers, when asked to adjust the
speed of light, will just look at you like you are
crazy, but in fact, given that you can adjust the
electrical permittivity and magnetic permeability
of the medium (in this case, free space), it's
actually a no-brainer: Just frob the mu-zero and
epsilon-zero numbers until your ping times through
the bird are optimal.

I have permittivity and permeability modulators
ready to ship. Unfortunately they are locked
up in Nigeria in customs, but if you would care to
send me your bank routing number, I could deduct
the small customs fee, and in return cut you 10%
of the gross on sales when they get to the states!
It's a great opportunity for a smart mover!

Simple solution.

[cybermace5]

Head down to the local hobby store and pick up a few model rocket kits. Start with one of the ready-to-go plastic ones, then gradually work up to a multi-stage D engine model. Go to college and get a complement of engineering and science majors, all doctorates. Design and build a liquid-fuel launch vehicle, and place the satellite of your own design into orbit.

You could skip a few steps, and rubberband enough Estes model rockets to an 802.11 wireless access point, trailing a really long Ethernet cable.