Don't Skimp on Your Internet Connection March 2020 – by Per ChristenssonIn 2015, I explained why you shouldn't skimp when buying a computer. The simple reason is that it's worth investing in a high-quality product that you use every day. If you use the Internet daily, I believe it's worth it to pay for a high-quality Internet connection as well. Most homes in 2020 contain several Internet-enabled devices — desktop computers, laptops, tablets, smarpthones, smartwatches, and smart appliances. Chances are you use one or more of these devices on a daily basis. If you have a slow Internet connection, files will take longer to download, messages may take longer to send, and you'll have to wait longer for Netflix and YouTube videos to load. Similarly, if you have an unreliable Internet connection, like through your neighbor's Wi-Fi (which hopefully he or she knows you're using), there may be times when you can't access the Internet at all. If you've ever needed to access something online but can't, you know how frustrating this can be. With this in mind, here are a few Dos and Don'ts when it comes to choosing an Internet connection. Do:
Don't:
And one more tip — use a high-quality, high-speed router. Since wireless devices connect to your router before connecting to the Internet, the router is just as important as your Internet connection. If your ISP provides a combination modem/router, make sure that it is not causing a bottleneck when connecting to the Internet. Either ask the installer to run a speed test or run a few speed tests yourself once your router is up and running. Then you can confirm whether or not your Internet speed is as fast as advertised. ◀ February 2020 | April 2020 ▶ |