What uses Data?
When managing data use it is important to know which types of applications use large amounts of data and which do not. For example, activities like streaming videos will use up your data more rapidly than checking your email.
Social media can use a large amount of data if your ‘feed’ loads a lot of photos and videos. One way to reduce the amount of data used is to adjust your account settings with the social network provider to disable the auto-play function for videos.
Sites employing embedded video will generally consume the most data. In order to limit this consumption, you should try to disable any “auto-play” capability. Audio files use a moderate amount and pictures use the smallest amount of data. Websites with text only will not have a heavy impact on your data use.
Uploading photos and videos from your computer to your social media feeds can also use a lot of data. Streaming music is another big user of data.
Make sure you turn off devices like Roku, Chromecast, and Fire Stick when you are not using them to stream. This includes ensuring you turn off your TV and all connected devices are off when they are not in use.
To learn more about how to make the most of your Hughesnet® service, click here.
How can I save data while streaming video?
Video content is very prevalent on the web today, and there are ways to save some data without missing this content. Limiting your resolution and bandwidth can reduce the amount of data you use while streaming video. Hughesnet service plans include Video Optimizer, which automatically adjusts your streaming up to High Definition for better streaming experience. Learn more about Video Optimizer by clicking here.
How can I save data while using Wi-Fi on my mobile device?
When your phone is connected to Hughesnet wireless (Wi-Fi) you are using your plan data. New features on iPhone and Android allow you to restrict the data your apps consume when they are not actively being used. This can reduce your data usage and make your network connection feel faster. Learn more here.
What uses a lot of data?
Streaming videos, movies, and TV shows, software downloads, especially on multiple devices, and video game downloads are going to be the largest data consumers. Completing these downloads and updates during Bonus Zone hours can be helpful in saving your data. Video games that require split-second decisions, such as first-person shooter games, are not recommended for Hughesnet due to latency in the signal. Strategy games, online board games, and role-playing games where immediate response is not as important work well.
Watch for Uploads, Backups, TVs that stay connected even when not in use and Security Cameras
Uploading videos, photos and other files uses data too. If you are uploading videos, schedule them to take place during the Bonus Zone hours. If you use internet-connected security cameras, it is important to monitor them regularly to see how they are using your data. Security cameras that monitor your home and continuously upload the footage can use large amounts of data. The best solution to this is to keep monitoring to a minimum and set your cameras to only record when you are not at home or only when motion is detected. Learn more about Security Camera here. In general, Hughesnet is not recommended for internet-based home security systems due to the high amount of data those systems consume.