Signing up for an internet plan requires some research. First, you need to understand the features and technical specifications of each plan before subscribing to one. Next, compare and contrast them to see which one suits you best. Once you have shortlisted your options, it’s time for you to sign up by getting in touch with your chosen provider’s customer support.
We have curated a list of parameters to figure out which internet plan is right for you:
Upload and Download Speeds
Internet speeds play an important role in determining the quality of your connection. In addition, they contribute to your overall online experience in carrying out any speed-intensive tasks over the internet. For instance, your internet speed is too slow, which means that you will encounter issues while streaming movies in HD or playing competitive online games. On the other hand, high speeds will provide you with a seamless streaming experience with little to no buffering.
Here are some of the most common online activities and the speeds you need to carry them out:
| Activity | Minimum Download Speed Requirement |
| Streaming videos | 3 to 40 Mbps |
| Virtual learning | 25 Mbps and above |
| Sending and checking emails | 1 Mbps |
| VoIP calls | Up to 0.5 Mbps |
| Downloading files | 10 Mbps |
| Attending or hosting Zoom call | 1.5 Mbps |
| Working from home | 25 Mbps |
| Scrolling on social media | 1 Mbps |
Online gaming can be very challenging if your internet connection does not provide the right speeds. Sometimes, internet providers advertise high speeds but fail to deliver them in reality. So, if you want to save yourself from unexpected slowdowns while gaming, AT&T bundles are all you need!
Besides, you need the following speeds to play online games:
| Activity | Minimum Download Speeds Needed |
| Online multiplayer gaming | 4 Mbps |
| Gaming console connecting to the internet | 3 Mbps |
If you prefer streaming movies on Netflix or Hulu in different video resolutions, here are the minimum speed requirements:
| Activity | Minimum Download Speeds Needed |
| Streaming videos in 4K Ultra HD | 25 Mbps |
| Streaming videos in High Definition (HD) | 5 to 8 Mbps |
| Streaming videos in Standard Definition (SD) | 3 to 4 Mbps |
If you are working from home, it is essential to stick to an internet plan that delivers a stable connection with consistent speeds. Here is how much speed you need to perform your office work at home:
| Activity | Minimum Download Speeds Requirement |
| Video conferencing in HD | 6 Mbps |
| Video calling on Zoom or Skype | 1 Mbps |
| Video calling in HD on Zoom or Skype | 1.5 Mbps |
Besides, your upload speeds are just as crucial as your download speeds when you are carrying out specific tasks. For example, sharing large files on the cloud, updating your social media accounts, and live streaming on Twitch require high upload speeds. However, if your upload speeds are low, you may end up experiencing lags in completing everyday online tasks.
Availability
AT&T internet offers internet services in up to 21 cities across the US. However, its fiber plans are limited to big metropolitan cities only. On the other hand, you may find satellite, dial-up, or DSL internet in rural areas. This is because many internet providers find it difficult to cover every area of the country due to limited infrastructure. In such situations, it is always a better idea to select an internet plan that is available in your local area without any issues.
Connection Type
Your internet connection type determines the speeds and data allowance you get. Most fiber internet plans offer unlimited data usage with symmetrical speeds. This means that you will get upload speeds that are just as fast as your download speeds. Moreover, with no data caps, you can perform any online tasks that use the most data without worrying about getting overage fees in your monthly internet bills.
On the other hand, cable internet delivers high-speed internet that may get interrupted by physical obstructions, changing weather conditions, and temperature fluctuations. Similarly, if there’s a technical glitch from the provider’s end, you may get low speeds that can disrupt your online work.
When it comes to wireless networks, your upload and download speeds are dependent on the signal strength of your internet. If you are sitting in your bedroom that is far from your Wi-Fi router, there is a chance that you will have weak signals coming to your device. As you move close to the router, your speeds and signal strength will improve.
The Bottom Line
Now that you have understood every factor that contributes to your online experience, you need to see which internet plan fits your needs! The abovementioned points will help you select the best internet plan for your home network to perform any online task. So, go ahead, and sign up for your ideal internet plan now!
