Can I Run a VPN over Hughesnet?

Using a virtual private network (VPN) impacts the way your modem receives data. Learn more about using a VPN with Hughesnet®.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an added layer of protection. This layer of protection is only typically used when sensitive data is transmitted over the internet. To achieve this added layer of protection, data is encrypted or converted into a code that only the receiver can read. This encryption process requires the data to be encrypted and un-encrypted on both sides of the transfer. The encryption and un-encryption process can add time to the delivery. For typical cloud-based applications a VPN is not required. Examples of VPN clients are Check Point Remote, FortiGate, FortiClient, and Cisco AnyConnect.

VPNs can work with Hughesnet.

For many of your business activities, you may not need to be connected to your corporate network. If you do need to use a VPN, we recommend you try to limit your activities while connected. If you remain in the VPN for internet activities which do not require VPN access, it can potentially slow the network and will also use more of your service plan data.

Consult with your company’s IT department to learn if Split Tunneling is an option. This feature is recommended because it can improve performance while connected to your VPN.

Note: Hughesnet Technical Support does not provide help with configuring or troubleshooting problems associated with VPN clients.

What is the Hughesnet Return Policy?

You must return your Hughesnet® modem, power supply, and radio in good condition within 45 days of cancellation date or be charged a $300 Unreturned Equipment Fee ($100 for the modem and power supply and $200 for the radio transmitter).  

If you are a Hughesnet Fusion® customer, you must also return the multipath device, power supply, and wireless antenna or be charged a $500 Unreturned Equipment Fee.  

Please be aware that after 45 days, accounts may not be eligible for credits or fee reversals. This includes contested charges for un-returned equipment fees. View instructions on how to de-install and return your leased equipment here. You are not required to return, and Hughes is not obligated to de-install or pay for the de-installation of the antenna, mount, or any cables.  

Call Customer Care at 866-347-3292 to start a return.  

Click here to review your Subscriber Agreement. 

Tips for Using Hughesnet

Everything you do online uses data. How much data you use depends on the activity you are doing online. Data is transferred two ways: from the satellite to your computer (download) and from your computer to the satellite (upload). Here are some helpful links to learn more about Hughesnet®

Popular Videos 

Understanding Satellite Internet > 

Welcome to Hughesnet > 

UNDERSTANDING DATA 

What uses data? 

What are Priority Data Tokens? 

SETTINGS & DEVICES 

What is Video Optimizer? 

How many devices can I connect? 

What Works With the new Hughesnet 

4 ways to use your security cameras with Hughesnet 

Can I Run a VPN over Hughesnet? 

OTHER TIPS 

Checking your speed performance 

Tips for working from home 

Reading your Invoice 

Finding your Site Account Number (SAN) 

Enroll in usage based notifications 

What should I do If I have issues with Google Chromebook?

If you are experiencing issues with your Google Chromebook connection, you may need to resolve it by removing and re-connecting to the Hughesnet® network. Follow the steps below to resolve the issue.

1. Forget the network:

  • Sign in to your Chromebook: You must be signed in to your Chromebook in order to forget a known network.
  • At the bottom right, select the time: This will open the system tray.
  • Select Settings: This will open the Settings window.
  • In the “Network” section, select Wi-Fi: This will open the Wi-Fi settings page.
  • Select “Known networks” This will open a list of all the Wi-Fi networks that your Chromebook has connected to in the past.
  • Find the network you want to forget, then select More: This will open a menu with more options for the network.
  • Select “Forget”: This will remove the network from your Chromebook’s list of known networks.

2. Navigate back to the Wi-Fi settings under your “Network” section and select either the 2g or 5g networks.

3. Try using your Chromebook to see if it’s working properly.

If you are still experiencing issues, please call us at 866-347-3292.

Why did I receive a return kit?

If you cancel your Hughesnet® service, you will receive a return kit to return any Hughesnet equipment you leased. Please note that the equipment must be returned in good condition within 45 days of cancellation to avoid being charged an Unreturned Equipment Fee. For more information on the charges, click here to view the Subscriber Agreement. 

For instructions on how to uninstall and return your Hughesnet leased equipment, click here

If you would like to reactivate your service, or have any questions regarding returning the leased equipment, call Customer Care at 866-347-3292.  

HT1000 and HT1100 model modems are not required to be returned. Please recycle with your local facility. 

1. If only the modem is returned, the amount for the Unreturned Equipment Fee will be $200. If only the radio transmitter is returned, then a $100 Unreturned Equipment Fee will apply. The Unreturned Equipment Fee is part of the subscriber agreement that you can view at legal.Hughesnet.com. 

2. A technician service fee may apply. 

What is Video Optimizer?

The Video Optimizer helps you get the most out of your service when streaming video content.

How it works:

Hughesnet® automatically adjusts data rates for streaming video to deliver great picture quality while using less of your data. Streaming is optimized with video streams up to HD quality. For best performance, leave any video streaming applications at their default automatic resolution setting. Most video services are supported. Not all video sources are identifiable.

Can I watch movies in HD with Hughesnet?

Yes! Your service is automatically set to stream videos up to HD quality.  You can choose to temporarily disable the feature for up to 4 hours using the Snooze button. It’s easy to manage your video optimizer settings using the Hughesnet Mobile App or on myhughesnet.com.

Where can I manage my video settings?

Manage Video Optimizer on the myHughesnet (Mobile) App

Manage Video Optimizer on myhughesnet.com

Streaming providers may use progressive or adaptive video streaming. The format in which they deliver video can affect your streaming experience. Click here learn more about Adaptive and Progressive video Streaming.

What is the Bonus Zone?

The Bonus Zone is a period of time when you have access to additional high-speed data! For residential customers it is between the hours of 2am-8am local time. The amount of your Bonus Zone data is determined by the service plan to which you subscribe. Use this additional plan data to download large files like movies, system updates for your computer, tablet, or smartphone—and more.

What is the difference between Service Plan Data and Bonus Zone (Formerly Bonus Bytes)?

You will consume your Service Plan Data whenever you use the internet during daytime hours. Your usage can be viewed on myhughesnet.com and the myHughesnet (Mobile) App.

Bonus Zone represents additional data that does not count toward your monthly Service Plan Data during the hours of 2am and 8am local time only.

How do I use Bonus Zone?

It’s easy- you don’t have to do anything to take advantage of this! During the Bonus Zone hours (2am-8am), your service will automatically use the additional plan data instead of using Data from your service plan. 

How much Bonus Zone data do I receive with my plan? (requires sign in)

You can best leverage the Bonus Zone by scheduling your computer updates and movie/music downloads during this time. 

Learn how to schedule windows updates