Internet providers are always advertising how fast their services are. But how much speed do you really need, and what are the main culprits when it comes to sucking up valuable bandwidth? Foley, AL's Sunshine Satellites, which offers the best in internet and TV services to the Alabama Gulf Coast area, explains how you can figure how which package is right for you. 

An Internet Provider’s Guide to Internet Speed Requirements

A Breakdown of Personal Usage

First, take a look at how much speed your average individual internet activity requires. For a single user, there isn't much that's likely to exceed 10 Mbps (megabits per second). Checking email and streaming music fall on the low end, at about 1-2 Mbps, while playing games, making video calls, and streaming standard definition video range anywhere from 1-4 Mbps. High-definition video streaming requires higher speeds, at 5-8 Mpbs, but you'll still fall under 10 more often than not. 

The Power of Multiple Devices

Now that you have a rough idea of how much speed each activity requires, it's time to place those numbers in the context of multiple users. Internet providers recommend higher speeds because most households have a variety of devices running concurrently. If you have a family member streaming video in one room while another plays games elsewhere, for instance, you'll need a connection that can handle the sum of those two numbers. In today's households, two devices is a pretty low average, too, which is why so many people depend on more powerful broadband and satellite internet services for speedier results. 

Think of your internet service as a literal pipe, and then picture what happens when more objects—or, in this case, devices—attempt to float through the same narrow spaces. The more capable your internet is, the wider that pipe becomes, allowing individuals to get work done and enjoy their entertainment without clogging up the system and slowing it down for everyone else.

The key to figuring out the right plan for your home or business comes down to thinking about how you and those around you use it. If you're new to the area, or if you're just looking for a more reliable connection, get in touch with the experienced internet providers at Sunshine Satellites today. Call them at (334) 794-3727 to speak to a representative, and visit their website to learn more about their services.