by OverHeadWatch Team | Dec 5, 2017 | Cost Reduction | 0 comments
Learning how to reduce Internet cost while keeping the same speed sounds like a dream that’s too good to be true. However, there are some tips and tricks you can use if you don’t want to spend a fortune on a good Internet connection. Today we are going to have a look at them, as well as see which ones are best suited for your needs.
How to Reduce Internet Cost – Tips and Tricks
1. Check the Speed You Have
There are various websites that help you check your Internet speed which you can use to determine the speed you have. Does it coincide with the one stipulated in the contract with your Internet service provider? If so, then you should consider changing the plan. If not, give them a call and see why you’re not getting the service you paid for.
2. Know and Cut Down on Your Usage
What are you ‘spending’ all your Internet on? If you want to know how to reduce Internet cost, it’s important to choose the right speed for your needs. For example, a programmer will have different needs than a stay-at-home mother. Many people choose the most expensive plan just because they want the best speed, without really needing it. Here’s a chart that can guide you:
| Activities | Speed (Mbps) |
| Web surfing, social media, email, etc. | 1 |
| Gaming | 1 – 3 |
| Video conferences | 1 – 4 |
| Video streaming | 3 – 4 to 5 – 8, depending on the quality |
| Large file downloading | 50+ |
3. Do Some Research
As a customer, it’s your priority to find out about the best offers and sales. That’s why you should take some time and do your research. Check the plans for each of the available companies and compare them. If you find a better plan, go and negotiate the current deal with your Internet service provider. Back up your arguments with evidence that their rivals have better prices.
4. Don’t Run from the DSL
Yes, it’s 2017 and the DSL is almost ancient technology these days. However, do you really need a cable modem? If you’re not watching Netflix 24/7 or stream music 8 hours a day, you could do just fine with a DSL. The costs for this older technology are significantly lower, so you could save up. At the same time, make sure what are the minimum requirements for the services you are using.
5. Buy Your Own Modem
Most people use leased modems from their provider, for which they pay a monthly fee. If you buy your own modem, you won’t need to pay those fees anymore. Read the contract and see if it says anything about an exclusivity of the modems. If you’re not sure, you can check with the customer service if you’re allowed to do so. It might represent an investment in the beginning, but it will save you money in the long run. Moreover, you need to make sure the modem you buy is compatible with the services you use or intend to.
6. Quit Cable
There are plenty of users who chose to have a pack with cable, internet, and other facilities. However, consider if you really need all of them. A good option would be to quit the cable service and just use the Internet. Keep in mind that there are plenty of streaming services where you can watch your favorite shows, movies, etc. As such, you can cut down on the bills.
7. Choose Local Providers
Sometimes, local providers have better prices than the big companies. Check out what the local offers have and how they stack up against your current one. It can be a great way to find out how to reduce Internet cost while maintaining or even rising your speed. If you own a company, you could also negotiate some prices for bundles.
8. Avoid Data Caps
There’s a huge debate going on about how ethical data caps are. Regardless of what side you’re on, they’re present in almost all Internet service plans, and companies don’t seem to want to get rid of them too soon. However, you can still avoid them. For example, track the bandwidth usage and turn down the speed usage for various streaming sites (such as YouTube and Netflix). At the same time, you can limit the browser bandwidth usage as well.
9. Make Your Own Bundles
If you know how to negotiate, you can convince your provider to make special bundles for you. Present them your needs and see how much you can save in a year. If you have several providers available in your area, your chances of finding a good deal increase.
10. Pair Up with Your Neighbors
If you’re getting along well with your neighbors, you can pair up and ask for a special offer from your provider. It’s even better if you don’t have a contract yet, since companies are interested in getting as many customers as possible. Moreover, this position allows you to negotiate the prices as well and obtain the best deal.
11. Check the State Financing
In some states, the government is offering some financing for such services for people who have a low income. You need to check what the official requirements are and if you fall into one of their categories. Usually, the institutions have everything published on their official website, so you can head there and see what papers you need to gather. At the same time, companies can benefit from such stimulants as well.
To sum it up, if you want to learn how to reduce Internet cost, you can easily follow the tips above. It would be useful if you have a natural skill towards negotiation as well, but if you don’t, there are other solutions too. Be informed about what you are paying for and check how much speed you really need. Don’t be ashamed to ask for a cut down on the costs or to inquire about a better offer. Most of the time, the offers are right there and people miss them.
Image source: depositphotos.com
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