Simply put, data caps are the ISP given limit to the amount of internet surfing and data usage you are entitled to for every month. Data caps can be quite the bother for many internet users and service subscribers between the US and in the rest of the world. They can cause complications with streaming, video calls and can even result in your service being temporarily suspended. On the other hand, from a business and functionality standpoint, these may be necessary.

We’re going to elaborate on why data caps exist and how you can work around them over the course of this blog.

Why Data Caps Exist in the First Place

Data caps in a sense are the ISPs way of monetizing the commodity they are offering, that being the data you use. Different ISPs offer different data limits and packages you can choose from. Data caps have also increased considerably over the years.

Despite this, there may still be times when we end up overusing the data allotted to us and find ourselves in tricky situations. The question is; what can one do about it?

Working Around Your Data Caps

If you’re looking for ways to work around your data caps and ensure that your usage does not exceed the prescribed limit per month, here are some things you can try out.

Data Tracking

One of the most effective ways to make sure you remain within data limit is to track the data you’re using on a daily basis. If your ISP does not offer data tracking options with their package, you can always download one of the many data tracking apps available online.

Tracking your data helps ensure that you stay within limit and that incase of data depletion, you’re alerted in advance thus preventing any unpleasant last minute surprises.

Browser Settings

Switching up your browser settings and filtering unnecessary content is extremely helpful. You have a lot of flash windows that open up when you log on to certain sites. Options like click-to-play can be great here as they restrict downloads of flash related data unless you request the same.

You can also look into downloading and activating ad blocking apps as automated ad windows also tend to suck up data.

Download Management

Downloading is an important function and relates to all kinds of processes. At the same time, downloading large amounts of data like movies, musical albums, games and other applications does take a considerable amount of data.

It helps to be careful and to track data usage when downloading. It also helps to scheduled downloading for late at night. The reason for this is some internet providers might be more lax when you’re not using services at peak hour. Do check in with your ISP before you do this though!

Winding Down

Following the steps above should help you manage whatever data plan and cap limit you’re on better. That being said, what would help even more is if you connect with an internet service provider in your region offering a data plan that is more suited to your needs!

Our company works closely with some of the best high speed internet providers across the US including AT&T, Rise Boradband and Wow Internet. We help clients across the US find ISPs that ideally suited to their needs and budgets via our online interface. If you need us, we’re happy to help!