Edinburgh based broadband satellite ISP Tariam, which launched earlier in the year, is offering what it claims to be the cheapest 2-way 512(D)/256(U)Kbps satellite Internet access service in the UK.

Some readers may be aware that most 2-way providers only have a 128Kbps option on the upstream link with 512Kbps downstream packages, thus it's perhaps more unique than cheap @ £79.99 per month +vat.

The remaining packages go from 512/128Kbps @ £59.99 per month (+ £949 Hardware / £250 Install) right up to 2/2Mbps at a staggering £1450 per month. We dare not shock our readers into a coma by also highlighting the hardware and setup costs.

While this may seem expensive, it's not unrealistic for a 2-way satellite service, none of which has ever been 'cheap'. We also note the similar platform setup to that of BT and Tiscali's two-way service, which have had a few difficulties.

There's little surprise to see that Tariam's service has been positioned as an ADSL alternative for rural areas, although the high cost and limits (capping, multiplayer etc.) of two-way satellite access put it out of reach for many in its target audience. Good if you can afford it and aren’t covered by alternative technologies.