How fast of internet speed do I really need?
AT&T Internet speed is one of those things that seem to have a lot of hype - the Mbps and all the other terms that surround it. However, being able to have a connection that is good enough to enable you to complete the tasks that you want to complete in this world that is becoming more connected is very critical. OK, here’s where it gets interesting: just how fast an internet connection do you need? Let's break it down.
Bandwidth and Speed – The Basics
First, it is important to look at certain terms. internet service speed is the measure of data rate achieved in the internet connection commonly known as bandwidth. This is expressed in terms of megabits per second (mbps). This means that the more the number of Mbps the faster it becomes to transfer data.
Broadband technology is the most common type of connection being used in the current world of internet connection as it allows always-on high-speed access by transmitting data through cable or phone/cable lines. Cable internet, DSL, and fiber optic are the prevailing wireline broadband offerings available out there today. Other wireless options, such as satellite, fixed wireless, and mobile data services are also easily accessible in many areas.
What Speed Do You Need
Determining the appropriate internet speed is about matching your daily online usage with the capabilities of your connection: Determining the appropriate internet speed is about matching your daily online usage with the capabilities of your connection:
Light Use
What it means is that if you spend some time surfing the web, checking emails, doing some simple video and music streaming, and perhaps being active on social networks, you can manage with a relatively slow connection. Light usage includes things like.
- Email
- Basic web browsing
- Occasional music/video streaming
- Social media
- VoIP calls
For such a purpose, an internet connection speed of at least 15 to 25 Mbps download is more than adequate. This is in line with the FCC definition of broadband which is considered minimal or basic. Even your rudimentary DSL or wireless connection should be able to manage this just well.
Moderate Use
For households with 3-5 internet-connected devices for streaming, online gaming, and use of multiple internet-based services, a connection in the 25-100Mbs is ideal. Moderate usage covers activities like Moderate usage covers activities like:
- Email, surfing, social networks
- Streaming HD video/music
- Online gaming
- Video conferencing calls
- Internet of Things (IoT) home appliances
Just about any cable internet or fiber optic connection that sells its service under ‘fast internet’ can provide these moderate speeds. DSL may not be as effective when dealing with multiple devices, especially at the higher end.
Data-Intensive Use
Those with even more connected devices like households and offices, complicated applications, or tasks such as 4K streaming or fast transfers of large files should go for speeds over 100Mbps. Typical high-data usage includes:
- The downloading/uploading of extremely large files
- 4K/UltraHD for streaming on multiple devices
- Smart home automation and security is an upcoming trend where all the devices in a home are connected through a system that controls various aspects of a home.
- Multi-user online gaming
- Business network/VPN access
For such situations, the Z-Move solutions, including fiber optic, cable, or the highest quality DSL services, would be ideal. Gigabit fiber internet is next-generation and provides phenomenal, multiple-gigabit connection speeds of up to 1000 Mbps.
Also, do not confuse internet speed as upload – Internet speed is mainly about how fast data is delivered to your home or office. Download speeds are typically many times faster than the upload speeds. That being said, if you often transfer large files, having more uplink capacity can also be helpful.
Some of the factors that determine the required Internet speed include
Internet service providers offer such high speeds but the user gets to enjoy the slow speeds most of the time. Things like the technology available in your area, WiFi performance, and other factors play a role
- More devices connected to the connection will take up the overall speed that is available per device.
- Service throttling – As much as your provider may offer speeds of 100 Mbps, their aging infrastructure might prevent you from accessing those speeds.
- High consumption-based congestion – Internet usage is usually high during evenings and thus, available bandwidth in your location may be limited
- WiFi Connectivity – The quality of the WiFi signal, interference, barriers, or the outdated router reduces the speed.
- Provider oversubscription – The providers tend to oversubscribe and rate limiting may begin at peak times
To measure actual speeds and check whether you are receiving the speeds promised by the ISPs, use a tool called Speedtest.net. In case the speeds are below the advertised speeds for a long time, consumers should engage their provider.
Although specific speeds cannot be achieved, there is a common understanding that better results in internet packages or plans lead to increased capabilities in terms of bandwidth and ability to support more devices and data.
The Bottom Line
Getting an internet connection fast enough for your house or business means aligning the bandwidth's capacity to the use patterns. For ordinary use, including social media and online surfing, rates of between 15 and 25 Mbps would suffice. Therefore, houses with many devices linked to the internet and extensive consumption of streaming calls for internet rates of up to 100Mbps or more.
Ensure that there are proper understanding of the current and future demands it will have. Remember, however, that one may have gigabit internet speeds even today and they may be unnecessary for many households. Of course, the best advice is to compare the offers for the specific location considering the price, speed as advertised, type of connection, and data cap if any.
Upgrade to faster, more reliable AT&T Fiber Internet today! Call us at +1 844-905-5002 and get connected with speeds that keep you ahead.