6 Tips to avoid internet overconsumption
November 09, 2023 · 5-minute read
Reduce video quality on Netflix and YouTube to lower data consumption.
Adjust automatic video playback and device syncing settings.
Prefer downloading music and monitor file-sharing programs to save data.
You regularly exceed your allowed data limit on your cellular plan or home internet? Regardless of your service provider, these 6 tips will help you mitigate the impact.
In 2018, there were an estimated 6.78 million Netflix subscribers in Canada.
Streaming video is the biggest internet consumer for Quebec households. Consumption depends on the video's resolution quality.
Lower the streaming quality on Netflix. Why play in Ultra HD / 4K if you don't have a 4K TV? Lower it to a decent/tolerable level and save it in your settings. Don't want to lower this quality all the time? Just do it when you notice you're about to exceed your monthly limit. Find this option under Account > Playback Settings.
With over 500 hours of video uploaded every minute, YouTube is one of the biggest internet consumers for Quebec households.
You can lower the playback quality on YouTube by clicking on the video settings (the gear icon) and adjusting the video quality.
Be aware of what your devices are doing in the background. Some apps automatically download. Get into the habit of adjusting settings on your cell phone, smart TV, or tablet.
For example, Facebook can automatically play videos. If you're not aware the page contains a video, it will play automatically. Check Facebook's help center on how to disable autoplay in your settings.
Most iOS devices are automatically backed up to the cloud. This usually happens between 2 and 4 in the morning and can result in a complete backup of your device every night. You can adjust your device settings if you don't think you need to back up every day.
Streaming music is one of the champions of data consumption. It's a trend among teens, but no one is immune to repeatedly listening to the same song or music video. Get into the habit of downloading instead of continuous streaming. Plus, you'll have material in case of outages or limited internet access.
Especially applicable for some popular peer-to-peer file-sharing programs. For example, BitTorrent, U Torrent... download and upload shared files to others. By default, they'll be uploaded as fast as your connection allows.
This activity is often invisible to you but can accumulate significant usage. Check the program preferences and make sure the upstream internet is limited. If not done, you'll continue to upload the file until the program is turned off. To limit usage, remove the file from the queue as soon as you've finished downloading it.
Downloading and updating video games are very data-intensive. If possible, you can schedule these actions based on your data plan and billing cycle. Here's a tip if you have an unlimited internet plan or one without overage charges but at a slower speed. Take advantage of it to download at the end of the billing cycle and during your absence.
To save on internet consumption, it's important to manage all accesses to your connection. Make sure to secure your Wi-Fi network with a password to prevent unauthorized people from using your bandwidth. Additionally, configure your router to prioritize essential activities, such as video conferencing or remote work, and limit the use of data-intensive applications and websites during peak hours.
To configure your router to prioritize essential activities, such as video conferencing or remote work, you'll need to use the Quality of Service (QoS) or bandwidth management feature. Here are the general steps to configure this feature:
Image source: https://www.howtogeek.com/75660/the-beginners-guide-to-qos-on-your-router/
Finally, it's essential to choose an internet plan that matches your needs to avoid additional charges. Shop around and compare offers from different providers, considering available promotions and discounts. Also, take into account the amount of data, connection speed, and additional services offered to select the plan that best suits your situation.
By following these tips, you'll have better control over your internet consumption and reduce your monthly bill.
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