Optimizing Cloud Management Services: How to Minimize Data Usage

Cloud management services have become integral to businesses, providing seamless connectivity and streamlined operations. However, with data usage being a precious commodity, understanding how different services consume data is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the average data usage of various cloud management services and how you can minimize it.

Digi Remote Manager (Digi RM)

Digi RM’s data usage varies significantly based on configurations. Without updates and default settings, it uses approximately 4.68MB on cellular and 18.1MB on non-cellular connections monthly. However, if all features are enabled, it can go up to 263MB monthly. To minimize data usage, users can disable non-essential features like event logging and adjust keep-alive intervals.

Inseego Connect

Inseego Connect consumes a minimum of 100MB monthly, but this can increase depending on usage. While this service doesn’t offer extensive customization options, being mindful of data-intensive activities can help minimize usage.

Peplink InControl 2

Peplink InControl 2’s monthly data usage averages 339.7 MB with GPS data and 172.3 MB without GPS data. Users can optimize data consumption by adjusting reporting metrics. Enabling Low Data Usage Mode and disabling device reporting and live status queries significantly reduces data usage, ensuring efficient utilization of bandwidth.

Cradlepoint Netcloud

Cradlepoint Netcloud’s data usage ranges from 5–10 MB per router per month in typical scenarios. Settings like connection pulse intervals significantly impact usage. Faster pulses increase data usage, while slower pulses risk connection issues but save data. Finding the right balance is crucial to minimize data consumption.

Sierra Wireless AirLink Management Service

Sierra Wireless, with default configurations, uses around 2.7 MB/day without telemetry and 3.3 MB/day with telemetry. Disabling both telemetry and the Network Watchdog reduces usage to approximately 400 KB/day. 

Tips to Minimize Data Usage

  1. Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on data usage patterns. Regularly monitoring usage helps identify trends and allows adjustments accordingly. Several cellular routers offer automatic usage monitoring and this also allows for alerts to be set when a certain amount of data has been reached. 
  2. Customized Configurations: Tailor settings to your specific needs. Disable non-essential features and set intervals carefully, striking a balance between functionality and data conservation.
  3. Firmware Updates: Ensure all devices are updated to the latest firmware. Manufacturers often release updates that optimize performance.
  4. Data Compression: Use services or tools that offer data compression. Compression techniques can significantly reduce the amount of data transmitted.
  5. Scheduled Updates: Schedule updates during non-peak hours. This ensures that any data-intensive processes don’t affect your regular operations.
  6. Regular Audits: Periodically audit your cloud management services. Are all enabled features necessary? Could some processes be made more efficient, thereby reducing data consumption?
  7. Education and Training: Ensure that your team understands the impact of their actions on data usage. Educate them about best practices and data-efficient workflows.

By understanding the data usage nuances of various cloud management services and implementing smart strategies, businesses can enjoy the benefits of seamless cloud connectivity without overshooting their data budgets. Stay informed, stay optimized, and make the most out of your cloud services.