5 things to consider before getting a wireless broadband internet

Wireless internet broadband has been a popular service for those who can’t get a wired internet subscription. It’s easy to subscribe to, quick to deploy, and sometimes cheaper than the wired alternative. However, there are caveats, and here are five of them.

1. Speed is inconsistent.

Given that you’re receiving your internet connection via signal instead of wires, speed will not always be consistent and often you won’t get the internet speed you’ve subscribed to. And since you are receiving your internet connection wirelessly from a base station, you will also experience times during the day when speed is extremely slow. This is more likely because that base station is serving plenty of other users as well.

2. Susceptible to downtime.

In the past years that I have been using wireless internet as my primary connection, I have noticed I get more downtime compared to when I was just using wired internet. The most common reason for a downtime (or very slow internet connection), as told by customer service representatives, are “system maintenance” or “system enhancement” being done in your area.

3. Bad weather can ruin your connection.

Since you’re using an antenna to receive signal from the telco’s base station, it’s important that it is always positioned in that direction. Bad weather conditions such as typhoons can put your antenna out of alignment or sometimes gets knocked down. In addition, the antenna needs to have a clear line of sight from the base station so tall buildings or trees can be a problem.

4. Data is heavily capped.

As of the moment, only high-end wired internet plans offer unlimited data and we’re yet to see this for wireless. Data caps for wireless connections are strictly implemented not just on a monthly basis but also daily. And once you have reached your cap, you will either get a slower internet speed or you get disconnected depending on your ISP.

5. Antennas are not always a pretty sight.

As mentioned earlier, wireless internet connections need antennas which are attached to a pole secured with wires. These are then placed on the roof of your house which is not exactly aesthetically pleasing, compared to wired connections which are often less obvious.

And that sums it up. So if you’re planning to get a wireless broadband internet, consider some of these cons before subscribing. If you’re not okay with these then it’s best to get a wired connection if possible.