Quick Guide To Choosing A Broadband Plan

If you are relatively unsophisticated as far as computers go, that is, you can turn your computer on, check your email, browse a few sites, but do very little more than that, then choosing the right internet plan can be a little confusing. Hell it can be a little confusing for even the sophisticated amongst us! There are many things one needs to consider when choosing a broadband plan and we have noted the key ones below.

What kind of broadband package suits you

There are a number of types of package available and determining the type of user you are is the most critical element in determining which package is most suitable for you.

• Beginner’s Broadband
  If you don’t happen to be a heavy internet user, or you have finally stumped up and bought a computer, then chances are you want a package that is fairly easy to get set up, and offers healthy customer support.
• Heavy-Usage Broadband
  So you download tons of music, watch a helluva lot of youtube, engage in file-sharing (heaven forbid) or  play multiplayer online games, then ideally you would be looking for the kind of package that supports that kind of usage, and doesn’t cost a fortune.
• Business Broadband
  If you want to get an office connected, with multiple users, then really you would be best off looking for a package which differs from a general consumer connection. You might want static IP addresses, you may need routers, and the ISP to help manage some of your security issues, and business broadband connections offer the kind of mix one would expect or require.
• Mobile Broadband
  If you log on to the internet from a laptop or you would like to use your mobile phone, then clearly mobile broadband is an option you need to consider. Signing up for this type of connection from a mobile phone service provider, will allow you to access the internet wherever there is mobile phone coverage through a dongle, which is connected to your laptop through a USB device.

What broadband is available in your area?

Most people who live in urban areas will have no problems being able to avail the packages that have been discussed. If you find yourself living in a more rural area, then you will have to check what internet service provider offers services in your area, and that can be found out by using our postcode checker.

Do you want fast broadband?

Bigger usually means better, and in the world of broadband that means faster. Fast internet connections are technically speaking nice to have, but they are like a Ferrari. Ferrari’s are great if you have a track you can race it on. If you need a car to get you from point A to point B on regular roads where there is traffic, then there is only so fast you can go. In fact many of the speeds offered by ISP’s like 20Mbps are not achievable in a single download, in order to use all the bandwidth you have at your disposal, you would need to be doing a lot of things simultaneously.

In actual fact to do most things on the internet you don’t actually need an internet connection speed faster than 2Mbps. If however you know you are going to be downloading a lot, or playing a load of online multiplayer games, then obviously having a faster internet connection is better.

What hardware do you need to get broadband?

All you need is a computer to access the internet, most ISP’s will provide modems, and in this day and age many are even throwing in modems and wireless routers. This is especially useful if you use multiple devices to access the internet, particularly if you use a desktop a laptop and have a gaming console, all of which can be connected through the router to the internet using a single connection. Some providers are even pushing the envelope and are offering free laptops or games consoles to new subscribers, though those type of deals are very limited and few and far between.

Do you need free phone calls with your broadband package?

Bundling your telephone package with your internet subscription is a great way to save money, and more importantly it saves time, and you should check out the packages some of the national ISP’s have.

Do you need digital TV with your broadband?

It is not completely necessary to include a television package with your internet connection, but honestly speaking, the sheer number of channels it gives you access to, can make it really worth your while. If you are bored with a limited selection of channels, bundling digital television with your internet connection is something you should definitely consider and you can also get your broadband for cheaper when bundling.

What software do you need to get broadband?

Once you connect to the internet the biggest single concern is the threat of viruses. There is no real software per say, you need a browser obviously for surfing, but you should invest in some decent antivirus software to ensure that your computer is protected. Some broadband providers even go as far as to provide free antivirus software with their service and that is definitely worth checking into, before you sign up to a package.

Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting

Comments