How to Get Best Internet Plans on a Budget?

The Internet is important if America's pandemic is to continue. However, with more people working and learning from the Internet at home, you could find it slows down. We put this guide together to help you get the best internet plans on a budget.

There are only two speeds before we plunge in: fast enough and not fast enough. It's not necessary to pay faster than you need for a connection. However if your internet does not keep up, you will probably need a better plan, a better modem or router, or a better setup. Here are the steps for all three:

1. Check Your Internet Service Plan 

Step One is to verify how many megabits per second (Mbps) you're currently purchasing from your internet service provider for cheap internet in my area. The more Mbps, the faster the internet.

Chart of MBPS needed for various home uses:

For business owners or an entire household who work from home, 150-250 Mbps should be enough. It may be beneficial to look at higher Mbps plans if you have more than 8 or 9 devices streaming and running at once. Some ISPs have plans of up to 1000 from 250 Mbps.

You will check to see if the speed you pay is provided if you are visiting speedtest.net. If not, you can have to update or configure your modem and router.

2. Check your Router and Modem

For Wi-Fi, both a router (distributes your devices to Internet) and a modem are required (connects you to the internet). You can also purchase a combo for the router and modem, but you know how to deal with them. You can bypass the modem entirely if you get an internet-only service such as FIOS.

Do not rent a router and modem from your internet service provider (ISP). For the money, that's a bad deal. When you can buy better devices that will last years for as little as $80- $100, you will end up spending $10-$20 a month.

Alternatively, your router is incompatible with your ISP and Mbps plan, or just outdated, because you may have poor internet speeds. When buying your router and modem, you can see if they are compatible with your ISP and how many Internet only plans are enabled. Many routers list their peak speed on the back and bottom of the unit on the sticker.

Related Reading:  How Do You Select Best Internet Service Provider Nearby You?

3. Choosing the Right Router and Modem 

Buying your own separate router and modem is a smart investment on a budget or not and will increase your devices' longevity.

Every few years, for example, Wi-Fi improves, but it only affects your router. The new version of Wi-Fi has recently been released, namely Wi-Fi 6 (but still only compatible with a few devices). Wi-Fi 6 routers, including Netgear Nighthawk AX4300 Wi-Fi 6 routers, would have an AX in its product title. But potentially a Wi-Fi 5 router is going to be quick enough — if the "AC" router has a Wi-Fi 5 in the model number.

Instead of using Wi-Fi 6, you can always have your modem in position – this is why the easiest way to save money is to purchase your router and modem separately.

You should be aware of a few things before you buy a router and modem: 1) whether you are using a single band or dual-band (double and tri-band is fast, yet affordable), 2) how much coverage (in square feet) you have and 3) whether it's compatible with your ISP and your Internet plan. The best budget routers and best budget modems are equipped with great guides.

4. Extended Coverage: Wi-Fi Boosters, Connection Points, and Extension Units

If you have poor internet but a good router, ensure that your router has a central position and is placed as high as possible.

If you still have loads of Mbps on your plan with a compatible router and modem, then coverage can be an issue. The purchasing of a Wi-Fi booster, wireless Internet connection or extender can be considered.

A booster is attached to your router and enhances the signal range. Wi-Fi access points are linked via an Ethernet cable into your router and create an added Wi-Fi access point without sacrificing speed. Extenders do not need to provide a wired connection to your router and expand the Wi-Fi in a dead zone – at the risk of potentially slower speeds in your home area. You can get pretty cheap for them. You may want to consider a mesh system if you are designated for a new router and need to cover a wide area. Don't immerse yourself too easily – a good router will do the same.

These measures can allow you to make your internet fast enough without your ISP getting a further $20 or 40 monthly bill. COVID-19 has placed ample financial pressure on the United States – you shouldn't spend more on the internet to learn, work or stay connected on the internet.