Mobile Phone Reviews
 
 

Download Limits

The majority of broadband packages on the market come with a set limit on how information you can download each month. These download limits are measured in gigabytes (GB) and range from a minimum 1GB to around 40GB. Choosing a package with a download cap of 1GB would allow you to view 10,500 websites, or download the equivalent of about 20 music albums each month.

However, if you over-use your broadband service and exceed your monthly limit,you risk being charged for the additional kilobytes that you have downloaded.

Unlimited Downloads and ‘Fair Use’ caps

Some ISPs provide unlimited monthly download usage with their products, which in theory allows you to download as much as you want. However, to ensure the internet service is not overrun, your unlimited broadband package will most likely include an unspecified ‘fair use’ cap for each month. If you exceed this, your connection may be temporarily slowed down or even disconnected for the rest of the month. You may even be charged an additional fee, so remember to carefully read all the terms and conditions of your broadband contract, especially the small print, so that you are fully aware of what you are signing up for.

Summary

Many broadband users either make the mistake of signing up for a package that doesn’t offer them enough monthly usage, or they choose a broadband deal with a higher usage limit than they actually require and end up paying for unused bandwidth each month.

Deciding on how much download allowance you need each month largely depends on the length of time you spend on the internet and the types of information you download. 

If you use the internet often and intensively and plan on sharing a broadband connection with other users, you will be best off going for a broadband package with a large download limit, or one with an unlimited download allowance.

However, if all you want from the internet is to be able to visit websites, send and receive emails and occasionally download music or video files, then it may benefit you financially by choosing a package with a monthly download limit of 1GB or 2GB.

Broadband Bundles

Many ISPs offer numerous other services in addition to broadband internet, especially cable companies. These broadband bundles usually consist of a phone/digital TV service sold alongside broadband internet.

Broadband/phone packages usually offer users cheap or free anytime UK landline calls, or additional mobile minutes and texts, while some even include free monthly line rental.

Other freebies that are offered as incentives to tie people into broadband deals include anti-virus software and free internet equipment such as a modem or wireless router.

Before deciding whether you need such extras with your broadband connection, you'll need to look at the costs you pay to different providers for the relevant services - e.g. your landline rental, phone call costs, subscription TV - and compare the total cost with the price of the package combo to see if you can save any money.