Switching from a traditional wired Internet service to cellular Internet, also known as Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), can be a big decision. One common concern is whether an unlimited data plan is necessary. While unlimited plans can offer peace of mind, they often come with higher costs and might not be necessary for everyone. Understanding your specific needs can help you make an informed decision and potentially save money. Let’s explore the factors to consider.
1. Evaluate Your Internet Usage
- Number of Devices: The more devices connected, the more data you’ll likely use. For example, a household with multiple users streaming video on different devices will consume more data than a single user.
- Types of Applications: Different applications use different amounts of data. Streaming video in HD or 4K, online gaming, and video conferencing consume significant amounts of data. In contrast, browsing the web, checking emails, and IoT applications typically use much less. Use our data usage calculator to help determine an approximate usage total.
2. Understand Your Specific Needs
- Businesses: Businesses might not require unlimited data, especially if they can control high-data-consuming applications. For example, a business using the Internet primarily for point-of-sale systems, email, and web browsing might find a capped data plan sufficient.
- IoT Applications: Many IoT devices, such as sensors and smart thermostats, use minimal data. If your primary use is for IoT, an unlimited plan is likely unnecessary.
- Failover Needs: If you’re considering cellular Internet as a failover for your primary connection, evaluate how often and how long your primary connection typically goes down. If outages are rare and short, a limited data plan may suffice. However, if your usage is generally high, it may be best to have a higher usage allotment available.
3. Home Users Considerations
- Whole House vs. Single User: If you need Internet access for an entire household with multiple devices, an unlimited plan might be beneficial. However, if the primary need is for one person to work remotely, a limited data plan could be adequate.
- Work Requirements: Consider the nature of your remote work. If it involves high data-consuming activities like video conferencing or large file transfers, an unlimited plan may be more suitable. For less data-intensive tasks, a capped plan might be enough.
4. Cost Considerations
- Price Difference: Unlimited data plans usually come at a premium. Compare the costs of unlimited plans versus plans with data caps to see if the extra expense is justified based on your usage.
- Carrier Availability: Not all carriers offer unlimited plans, and some might restrict them to specific devices. Ensure you check the availability and terms of unlimited plans from your carrier.
5. Data Plans from 5Gstore.com
At 5Gstore.com, we offer a variety of data plans to cater to different requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the plans we currently offer in partnership with Verizon Wireless:
- 4G LTE Failover Plan:
- $10/mo (includes 1GB)
- $10 Per Additional GB
- For fixed or mobile use
- 4G LTE Failover Plan with Static IP Address:
- $12/mo (includes 1GB)
- $10 Per Additional GB
- For fixed or mobile use
- 5G Unlimited with Static IP Address:
- $84.99/mo
- No overage fees
- No throttling
- Fixed Access ONLY – Requires Confirmation of Address Before Ordering
- 4G LTE Standard Plan with Static IP:
- $84.99/mo (includes 300GB)
- $10 Per Additional 5GB
- For fixed or mobile use
The 5G Unlimited plan requires address verification because it is limited to fixed wireless access (FWA) and utilizes Verizon’s C-Band frequencies, offering some of the fastest bandwidth speeds, typically around 100-150 Mbps down and 10-15 Mbps up. There is a limited number of 5G “nodes” available per cell tower, so it’s first come, first served.
If your address is not currently in a 5G C-Band area, you can submit your address, and we will continue to check for coverage periodically, contacting you once it becomes available.
For those not interested in a 5G plan, our 4G LTE plans provide reliable service with varying data limits and the option for a static IP address.
6. Plan Flexibility
- Adjustable Plans: Some carriers offer plans that allow you to adjust your data limits based on usage. These can be a good middle ground if your data needs fluctuate.
- Overage Charges: Check if your carrier charges overage fees for exceeding your data cap. Sometimes, the cost of occasional overage is still less than the premium for an unlimited plan.
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Determining whether you need an unlimited data plan when switching to cellular Internet (FWA) depends on various factors, including your usage patterns, specific needs, and cost considerations. By carefully evaluating your Internet usage, understanding the needs of your household or business, and comparing the costs, you can make a more informed decision and potentially save money.
Ready to Make the Switch?
At 5Gstore.com, we offer a range of cellular Internet solutions to meet different needs. Whether you require high-speed data for multiple devices or minimal data for IoT applications, we can help you find the right plan and equipment. Contact us today to learn more and make the switch to cellular Internet with confidence.
