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Understanding data usage, how it's measured, what uses data, and how to choose the right data allowance for your needs.
Data usage (also called data consumption or bandwidth) is the amount of data you download and upload when using the internet. It's measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB), and different activities use different amounts of data.
Understanding data usage helps you choose the right broadband package and avoid going over limits (if you have them). Most home broadband packages are unlimited, but mobile data and some broadband packages have limits.
Units:
What you'll see:
Light usage (small amounts):
Moderate usage (medium amounts):
Heavy usage (large amounts):
Very heavy usage:
Light user (basic browsing):
Moderate user (streaming, working from home):
Heavy user (lots of streaming, gaming, downloads):
Very heavy user (extensive use, large household):
Extreme usage:
Home broadband:
Mobile broadband:
Mobile phone data:
Router settings:
Provider account:
Apps:
Estimate:
Streaming:
Downloads:
Other tips:
Home broadband (if limited):
Mobile broadband:
Prevention:
You probably need unlimited if:
You might be OK with limited if:
Most people:
Technology & Digital Infrastructure Writer
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