What about technology? Overpaying for the internet

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – With the prices of just about everything going up, many of us are looking for ways to save money each month. One mistake people make is spending too much on a home internet plan.

Advertisements would have us believe that we all need a gigabyte or more of internet speed. The truth is that most people don’t need that much, and paying only for what you need can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

Are You Overpaying for the Internet? Here’s How to Save

The truth is that most households can get by with much less. Let’s break down how to determine the right internet speed for your needs and potentially save hundreds of dollars a year.

Understanding Internet Speed

Internet speeds are typically measured in Mbps (megabits per second). This represents the amount of data that can be transferred over your connection at one time. Think of it like a pipe: a larger pipe allows more water to flow through at once. Similarly, a higher Mbps allows more data to be transferred, allowing for smoother streaming, faster downloads, and better online gaming experiences.

How much speed do you really need?

The key is to find the right balance between speed and internet usage in your home. Here’s a simple breakdown:

● Streaming:

○ Standard Definition (SD): 5 Mbps per device

○ High Definition (HD): 10 Mbps per device

○ 4K: 35 Mbps per device

● Online games: 20 Mbps per device

● Browsing the web: 5-10 Mbps per device

● Smart home devices: Minimal impact, but worth considering a few extra Mbps

Now consider the number of devices and people in your home that will be using the internet at the same time. If you have two TVs streaming 4K content, someone playing online games, and a few connected smart home devices, you probably need a 300Mbps internet package. In that case, a 300Mbps package would provide ample bandwidth and comfortably accommodate most households.

However, if you have a larger family, use multiple devices streaming in 4K, play games with multiple people, make frequent Zoom calls, and regularly upload and download large files, you may want to consider a gigabit plan.

Keep in mind that these activities must occur simultaneously to justify the higher speeds. If one TV goes off or the game ends, the required bandwidth will decrease.

Signs you may need more speed

If you often experience buffering when streaming in 4K, it could be a sign that you need faster internet. However, it’s important to rule out other factors, such as Wi-Fi signal strength or device limitations.

Tips to save money on your internet bill

1. Rate your usage: Track your household’s internet activity and the number of devices connected simultaneously.

2. Consider your needs: Be realistic about your internet requirements. Don’t pay for speeds you won’t fully utilize.

3. Check out the offers: Many internet providers offer promotional rates or packages. Compare prices and negotiate the best deal.

4. Optimize your Wi-Fi network: A weak Wi-Fi signal can lead to slower speeds. Make sure your router is strategically placed and consider using Wi-Fi extenders if necessary.

By understanding how you use the internet and choosing a plan that fits your needs, you can avoid overpaying for unnecessary speeds and save a significant amount of money each year. Don’t let internet providers sell you more than you need – take control of your internet bill and enjoy a smooth online experience without breaking your budget.