A few months ago, I realized that my internet wasn't working that well. My connection kept timing out, and it seemed like no matter what I did, the pages weren't loading quickly at all. I cleared out my cache, reset my router, and still nothing. After talking with a neighbor, they informed me that there was a problem with the internet provider that I was using. I contacted the internet provider, and they walked me through a few really interesting troubleshooting tips. I learned a lot that day, and I want to teach you a lot too. This blog is filled with articles about the Internet, so that you don't run into any trouble of your own.
Eliminating Internet Problems
Unlimited Internet Questions: What Is Deprioritization?
Maria Mora
If you're tired of running out of data to go online, then you may have decided to switch to an unlimited Internet plan. These plans allow you to use the Internet as much as you want without caps or extra charges.
Before you choose which plan to use, it's important to understand the conditions behind an offer. For example, your provider may put deprioritization limits in their plans. How does deprioritization work and how can you stop it from being a problem?
What Is Data Deprioritization?
Getting unlimited Internet doesn't always mean that you get lightning-fast downloads and smooth streaming and connections. If a lot of people are using parts of your network at the same time, then it can get congested. This often happens at times of the day when more users are online; it can slow things down for everyone.
To avoid widespread problems, providers often impose deprioritization thresholds. When a network gets close to being congested, they reduce data speed for some customers for a short period of time.
This reduces stress on the system. Some people may notice a dip in speed and access, but others won't see any difference because they aren't in the deprioritization zone.
Typically, you'll be deprioritized if you're a heavy Internet user. For example, a provider might add a deprioritization clause if you go over a set data threshold. If your threshold is set at 40GB, and you go over this limit, you're more likely to see a slow-down if things get real busy.
How to Avoid Deprioritization Problems
If you want unlimited data because you're a heavy Internet user, then speed may also be important to you. If you stream a lot of stuff, play complex games online and regularly make large downloads, then you want to get rid of caps but you also want acceptable speeds. You don't want to spend part of any billing period being slowed down because you've exceeded your data threshold.
Most Internet providers offer various unlimited plans graded by usage. So, a basic plan may give you a deprioritization threshold of 20GB, a mid-range one may give you 30GB and a top-range one may give you 40GB.
The easiest way to avoid slow-down problems is to choose a plan with a threshold that exceeds your typical data usage during a billing period. For example, if your average usage comes out at under 25GB, then a 30GB threshold should be fine. You shouldn't have any deprioritization problems.
To find out more about how deprioritization might affect your unlimited plan, talk to each Internet provider on your shortlist.
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