Choosing a broadband service
What type of broadband service should I get?
Choosing a broadband service can prove confusing. To help work out what you need, see this list of common broadband terms.
The information below will assist you in finding a service that best suits your needs. Once you have an idea of the type of service you require, you can use the Department's broadband service locator to find a service provider in your area.
| Online activity | Light user | Medium user | Heavy user |
|---|---|---|---|
|
General internet browsing |
Under 10 hours per week |
10–30 hours per week |
Over 30 hours per week |
|
E-mails (no attachments) |
Fewer than 50 emails per week |
50–200 emails per week with attachments |
More than 200 emails per week with large attachments |
| Online banking/ shopping | Once a month | A few times per week | Every other day |
|
Downloading music (MP3 files) |
Fewer than 5 tracks per week |
5–20 tracks per week |
More than 20 tracks per week |
| Downloading/ streaming videos (e.g. You Tube, iView) |
None | A few short videos (under 2 mins each per week) |
Regularly watch videos (over 5 mins each) |
|
Downloading large files |
None |
Some |
Many |
|
Talking to someone on another computer (including using VOIP services such as Skype, or those included by a broadband provider) |
None |
5–20 hours per week with a webcam |
20 or more hours per week with a webcam |
| What to look for in a service plan | Light user | Medium user | Heavy user |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Speed |
256/64 kbps and up |
512/128 kbps and up |
1500/256 kbps and up |
|
Data (usage) |
0.2–3 GB |
3–15GB |
15GB and up |
|
Cost |
A number of services available on the internet allow you to compare prices and packages from different internet service providers (ISPs). Remember to look at all costs involved in getting a connection (e.g. installation and setup fees, monthly data allowance, excess data charges, etc.). Costs will also depend on the duration of a contract. A long term contract may offer lower monthly payments but may prevent you from accessing cheaper and faster services that come along. | ||
