HughesNet Download Period aka “FAP-Free Time

HughesNet Download Period aka “FAP-Free Time

Since it’s occasionally necessary to download large files such as Windows updates, HughesNet provides a period when you can download a lot of data and not be penalized by the Fair Access Policy (FAP).  HughesNet calls this the “Download Period.”  We like to call it “FAP-Free Time.”
The actual hours of the Download Period depend on the HughesNet modem that you are using.  HughesNet states that “the hours of unrestricted use shall begin no later than 2:00 AM and end no earlier than 7:00 AM Eastern Time.”  For my HN7000S modem, the Download Period is from 2AM-7AM Eastern Time.
Note that a FAP Penalty is disregarded during the Download Period, meaning that downloads are at full-speed during that period even if you are currently penalized.

Limitations of the Download Period

Though you can download large files without penalty during the Download Period, there are other limitations in place:

1. Downloads are subject to available network capacity.
2. Download speeds are not guaranteed during these hours.
3. The HughesNet Acceptable Use Policy is still in effect.

How Large Downloads Work

Downloads that extend into or out of the Download Period can get a little tricky.  This is best explained with an example. 
Let’s say you start a massive download at 1AM that concludes at 8AM.  The amount you download between 1AM-2AM will count toward your FAP download limit.  Of course anything you download between 2AM-7AM will not count toward your FAP limit since this is the FAP-Free Time.  Then the amount you download between 7AM-8AM will once again count toward your limit.
The same applies with a FAP penalty.  If your download speed is severely restricted due to FAP penalty, your downloads between 1AM-2AM will be very slow.  Your download speed will return to normal between 2AM-7AM during FAP-Free time.  Then if you still have time remaining on your FAP penalty, your download speed will drop again after the Download Period ends at 7AM.