Choosing the right internet plan for you

Internet Plans

Do you head to your local cafe every time you want to check your email, or spend hours trying to guess your neighbour’s Wi-Fi password? It’s time to take control of your life and invest in a reliable internet plan.

Getting connected to the World Wide Web can be as simple as pressing a button, but you’ll need to choose an internet plan first – one that clearly outlines what you’ll get from the service provider and how much you’ll pay for it.

There are two main types of internet plans:

1. Mobile broadband

Mobile broadband doesn’t only refer to your mobile phone. It means your computer or wireless device that can access the internet when you’re out and about, connecting via Australia’s mobile phone network.

You’ll need either a ‘dongle’ or a SIM card, which you simply connect to your device to access the mobile broadband network.

Mobile broadband is a good option if you fit into one of the following categories:

You travel a lot and need access on the go.
You live in an area where you can’t get a fixed line connection, like cable or ADSL.
Your living situation makes committing to a plan difficult, like when you’re living in a share house on a budget.

When you’re choosing a plan, consider how much you’re willing to spend and how much data you think you’ll need.

Mobile broadband providers include:

Bendigo Bank Telco.
Dodo.
iPrimus.
Optus.
Telstra.

2. Wireless Internet

If you’re likely to be staying in one location for an extended period, you might prefer a wireless internet plan, also known as Wi-Fi.

The first step is to choose a broadband option – it could be the NBN, ADSL or cable internet, depending on what’s available in your area. Then, once the internet is connected to your property, you’ll need to invest in a modem and a wireless router so you can set up a Wi-Fi network for your household.

With this set-up, any device that has the password will be able to access the internet. This means your smartphone, computer and tablet can get online easily. Be sure to pick a tricky password, so your neighbours don’t try and piggyback off your internet.

When it comes to your wireless internet plan, consider the following:

Cost: Include set-up and installation costs as well as your monthly fees.
Data: Does your household use a little or a lot?
Add-ons: Some wireless internet plans include a home phone line or an entertainment bundle, which might include a subscription to a television streaming service.

If you’re planning on moderate to heavy internet use, which could mean watching catch-up TV, doing some online gaming or calling a friend on Skype, wireless internet will probably prove a more cost-effective and faster option than mobile broadband.

Wireless internet providers include:

Be sure to check whether your preferred provider offers the type of internet you’re after.

To start comparing mobile broadband plans or wireless internet plans, contact the iSelect internet experts on 13 19 20.