With the rise of Internet use, broadband options in the market have been increasing over time as Internet speed becomes a big factor and unlimited data plans are prevailing. Before you apply for a broadband postpaid plan, consider the following:
Contract period
When you sign up for a broadband plan in the Philippines, the plan can be locked to your name for 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, and 30 months. Usually, when you finish the contract, there’s a certain loyalty reward like rebate or sometimes free gadget you can claim upon approval of your application. When you’re under a contract, you’re not allowed to change your plan, all the more downgrade it. You have to wait for the end of your contract before you do any alterations. Carefully consider the broadband contracts because you will have to pay the remaining months if you intend to cut your contact before the term ends.
Speed
It doesn’t make sense to get an expensive, high-speed Internet of 10 mbps (Megabits per second) when what you only do with it is just email and network on social media. But, if you have 5 computers at home, it is, and it may even be cost-effective for you.
One Mbps of speed is okay for small-bandwidth websites but will go slow when you download big files. The usual speed in broadband packages is 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 3 Mbps, 4 Mbps, 5 Mbps and 10 Mbps. When considering speed, you should take note of the number of users who will connect and the Internet activity of each. Ask your chosen Internet service provider which plans suit your needs.
Data
Because of high demand here in the country (and other countries with high Internet usage), unlimited use of data has been marketed by telecommunications companies. Despite the publicized dismay of the consumers because of the Fair Use Policy implemented in some countries all over the world, including the Philippines, people are still patronizing the limited unlimited services offered by the providers.
After hitting a daily or monthly bandwidth limit set by the provider, the subscriber can still access the web, but will experience browsing at slower speeds. It can massively affect media streaming and downloading. The key is to compare the data charges of each provider and the scope of the so-called unlimited data plans.
Signal
Always ask your prospective broadband provider to check signal in your area. Sometimes, a certain network works best in a specific area in your city but will not work as good when you’re in a different place. Ask your provider if your area is a great location for their services.
Price
Cheapest is not always the best. Check out all the pros and cons before applying for an Internet plan. The cheapest may be fit for your budget, but will not be cost-effective if you need a bigger bandwidth or bigger amount of data or more devices to connect. Monthly cost of broadband ranges from P899 to P2,399 and usually depends on the factors mentioned above.
