Understanding Your Data Needs
As fewer Internet providers are offering unlimited data, it seems that more and more devices need it in order to do their job. Not only are cell phones and computers using your Internet data, so are fitness trackers, security systems, live video cameras, streaming video services, gaming systems, smart refrigerators and more. This abundance of demand can cause a huge problem with your data limit.
Prior to choosing or upgrading your high speed Internet service, ask yourself these questions.
- How many connected gadgets do I have in my home?
- How many of those gadgets are on around the clock and how many can be turned off when not being used?
- Do I have regular visitors who use your Internet?
- Am I already close to my data limit?
- How much extra will it cost for provide data for more devices? Is it in the budget?
- What are my motivations for data intensive gadgets? A live camera for watching children at home may be a wise investment, whereas watching a pet may be more questionable. Adding streaming video when you already have a high quality satellite TV service duplicates programming you already have.
Lower the Data Drain
In order to keep the data drain under control, there are a few things you can do. Before buying a smart/connected device, consider whether its usage will impact your monthly Internet service bill. If it causes you to pay more for Internet, you may want to think about whether it is worth the extra expense or if a less tech-savvy version would suffice.
Anytime there are video images involved in data usage, your data limit can be reached quickly, as it is very data intensive. In order to control it, always set videos to standard definition instead of high definition. It is a fraction of the demand of high def.
The manufacturer of the product may have some recommendations on how to manage data use with the new product. You can also choose to turn it off when it is not in use. You should also ensure that your home network is locked and do not share the password with too many people. The fewer people using your data monthly, the lower your bill will stay.
Know your Internet data plan, and choose your smart products wisely in order to avoid a challenging data debacle.
