With so many broadband internet plans on the market today it’s difficult to know which plan is best for you and your household. With the growing reliance on our home internet for work, education, entertainment, and communication, selecting the right broadband internet plan is crucial. And we know it can often become overwhelming, don’t worry we’ve got you covered! In this month’s blog we will give you some tips on how to choose the internet plan that’s right for you.
Assess Your Internet Needs
Before diving into the world of internet plans, it’s crucial to assess your specific requirements. Consider the number of people in your household, their internet usage patterns, and the types of activities you engage in online. Are you a heavy streamer, a gamer, or someone who primarily uses the internet for casual browsing and email? Understanding your needs will help you determine the appropriate speed, data allowance, and plan type.
These are approximate speed requirements for:
Internet Browsing, Email & Music Streaming
– 5-20Mbps would be sufficient for checking emails, browsing your favourite websites and listening to music. (Based on 1-2 Users)
Online Gaming
– for uninterrupted gaming look for a plan that has an internet speed of 20-40Mbps. (Based on 1-3 Users)
Streaming HD Video
– for seamless video streaming and large file downloading an internet plan with speeds of 40-100Mbps would be sufficient. (Based on 2-4 Users)
Working from Home Office
– if you’re working from home and using creative apps or software you’ll require an approximate speed of 100-500Mbps. (Based on 2-5 Users)
If your household has 5 users or more users, the recommended speed requirements for running a home office using creative apps or software, 4K streaming videos, use of smart home devices such as security alarms and printers is around 500-1000Mbps.
Research and Compare Internet Providers
Once you have identified your requirements, it’s time to research and compare different internet providers. Look for well-established providers with a good reputation for reliability and customer service. Read reviews, check online forums, and seek recommendations from friends or family members. Consider factors such as coverage in your area, available plans, and pricing. Take advantage of comparison websites to gather information about different providers and their offerings.
Understand Different Internet Plan Types
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the different types of internet plans available. Broadband internet plans typically fall into three categories:
ADSL2 / ADSL2+ connections use your existing copper telephone lines to deliver internet to your home via your local telephone exchange. ADSL has a top speed of 8Mbps, and ADSL2+ technology can achieve speeds up to 24Mbps.
Cable internet is another name for hybrid fibre coaxial (HFC) which is a mix of high speed fibre optic cables and slower coaxial cables used by pay TV companies like Foxtel. The fibre optic cables form the high speed backbone whereas the coaxial cables connect from your house to a nearby node.
NBN network uses a range of broadband internet technologies including new fibre optic cable, existing copper lines, fixed wireless and satellite to deliver fast internet to your home. These are the types of NBN available:
⦁ Fibre to the premises (FTTP)
⦁ Fibre to the building (FTTB)
⦁ Fibre to the node (FTTN)
⦁ HFC cable (coaxial cable)
⦁ Fixed wireless
Each type has its advantages and limitations, such as varying speeds and coverage areas. Research which type is available in your area and choose the one that suits your needs.
Consider Speed and Data Allowance
The speed and data allowance of your internet plan are crucial factors to consider. Speed refers to how fast your internet connection can upload and download data. It is especially important for activities like streaming HD videos or online gaming. Determine the minimum speed requirements for your preferred online activities and choose a plan that meets or exceeds those requirements. Additionally, consider the data allowance offered by the plan. Heavy users may require unlimited or high-cap data plans, while casual users may opt for lower data allowances.
Evaluate Additional Features and Customer Support
When selecting an internet plan, don’t forget to evaluate additional features and customer support. Some providers offer extras like free Wi-Fi modem/router, bundled services (such as phone or TV packages), or bonus data. Consider whether these features align with your needs and budget. Additionally, customer support is crucial in case you encounter any issues with your internet connection. Look for providers with reliable and responsive customer support that can assist you promptly if problems arise.
Choosing the right internet plan requires careful consideration of your specific needs, comparing different providers, understanding plan types, evaluating speed and data allowance, and assessing additional features and customer support. By following these five tips, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision and find an internet plan that caters to your requirements. Remember, a reliable and high-speed broadband internet connection is the gateway to a seamless online experience.
If you’re looking for an internet plan with best in class speeds – speak to one of our friendly team members on 1300 001 958 or email hello@broadband.compare to compare broadband plans today