Hi there,

I’m trying to solve a problem in a remote vacation property that I’m hoping the fine folks on this subreddit can provide some advice around.

My current configuration includes a satellite internet connection (Xplore in Canada) at 25/2 speeds. I then have the satellite modem connected to a Google WiFi router. While 25/2 meets our general needs (remote monitoring of a couple of cameras and thermostats, and some streaming tv while we’re there) the ping (~900ms) makes the system very laggy and frustrating to use. The satellite connection craps out regularly due to weather and misalignment of the dish due to wind.

We have looked at Starlink and it’s not possible to install without installing a tall tower due to the tree cover.

A new ISP option became available that connects to the cellular LTE network which is strong (we get 50/15 on our phones). The new package is much less expensive, and I know the ping will be substantially better than the satellite. It’s the first time that this technology has been available at an affordable price for the amount of data we need. However, one big downside I’m trying to resolve is that the ISP limits streaming services to 3mbps or 720p. I’d like to watch at least 720p in HD which required 5mbps, even better if we can go 1080 or 4K, which is impossible on the throttled speed. We will be using a small fraction of the available data in the plan, so I don’t think we’ll be creating any undue burden on their system.

My plan: I think I can set up a system that will circumvent the throttling by doing the following…

  • Keep my current home network with the Google WiFi router as-is for all devices except the Apple TV.

  • Add a second WiFi router that will have a separate SSID, that router would be connected to Private VPN. Connect the Apple TV to that router to bypass the throttling.

  • this would give me the ability to use the network regularly for all my devices that don’t need the VPN and not create any unanticipated VPN compatibility issues with work or other devices.

Do you see any technical issues with my plan? Any tips, or other advice?