It’s frustrating to try to watch an online video that continues to buffer. Whether you’re a casual internet user or hardcore gamer, internet speed has a significant effect on your ability to use the web. The experts at Sunshine Satellites in Foley, AL, understand the importance of fast, reliable internet service. The expert staff at this satellite internet provider explain the speeds required for specific activities and preferences.

Determining Internet Usage

The first step for figuring your online speed requirements is determining how you use the internet. If you mostly use it for casual web browsing, email, music streaming, file sharing, and viewing standard-definition videos, you’re probably a light internet user. For this use, aim for a speed of about 5–10 Mbps.

For moderate internet use, which includes all the activities of light internet use as well as demands like online gaming and streaming high-definition videos, consider using a speed of 10–25 Mbps. Heavy internet use is everything a light internet customer would do plus two high-demand activities at the same time, such as gaming while streaming HD videos. Heavy internet use typically requires speeds of 25–50 Mbps.

Factors Internet Providers Say Affect Speed

In general, the more speed you get from your satellite internet provider, the more activities you can do online. But other factors affect internet speed; for example, if your home has dated technology like an aging modem and router, they won’t keep up with the demands of modern internet users. If it’s time to upgrade your equipment, talk with a satellite internet provider about newer products that will improve your experience.

Another factor that can affect speed is your monthly data cap, which limits the information you can download. Once you surpass the limit, your provider will either charge an extra fee or reduce your bandwidth. Heavy users should arrange a monthly plan without a data cap.

You also can encounter slower speeds during heavy usage times. Just as motor traffic has rush hours, the internet has a daily time frame where usage peaks, usually 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. This collective demand can overload your internet provider’s capacity, so speeds might be slower than usual.

For the most dependable internet services in the Foley, AL, area, contact Sunshine Satellites. Whether you’re looking for a new internet provider or access to HD satellite TV, they will set you up with a package ideally suited to your needs. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings and call (334) 794-3727 to speak with a company representative. Check their Google+ page for additional insight from their expert staff.