Here are some common channel types:
Microwave systems: transmit voice and data through the atmosphere as high radio waves and transmit messages between ground-based earth stations and satellite communications systems. Microwaves stations need to be placed within 25-30 miles of each other (Up to 600+ Mbps)
Satellite Systems: Communication satellites are microwave relay stations in orbit around the earth, approximately 22,300 miles above. Satellites offer wireless phone, messaging, paging, and satellite-to-home TV signals (Up to 600+ Mbps)