Stop Wasting Money On The Internet: Here’s How To Save

In this Internet Age, it is practically mandatory to have access to the web, both at home and in the palm of your hand. However, having constant access to the web is anything but cheap. According to a 2015 Time article, consumers pay about $50 a month for a broadband connection to the web. And then on top of that is your cell phone bill, which runs about $50 to $60 a person per month, and often more.

Here’s how I cut the cost of my home internet in half 

When my neighbors moved into the apartment next door, my roommate approached the small family and asked if they would like to split our internet, and thus split the cost of internet in half. They were agreeable and even excited at the offer. We have one of the more basic plans, yet the internet is always working to speed and we haven’t had any problems to date. This approach worked well for us because both of our apartments are relatively small and close together. If you live in an apartment, or a duplex, this method could work well for you.

Other ways to save on home internet

If sharing internet doesn’t work for you, don’t worry, there are some other methods.

1. Do your homework. Research the internet service providers in your area and compare prices. Once you have some numbers, call your current provider and let them know what the competition is charging. You might get a better rate because they won’t want to lose you as a customer.
2. Lower your speed. If you’re just streaming Netflix or perusing social media on your phone, you won’t require much bandwidth. Unless you know you need a high-speed account, I’d suggest signing up for the basic plan and going from there.
3. Purchase your own modem and router. Whereas you might not realize it, you’re actually renting and modem and router from your internet service provider. If you’re paying $10 a month to rent a modem and router, which you can purchase for a total of $150, then you are better off buying them yourself.
4. Use a bill negotiator. Did you know that you can turn to a third party to help you negotiate a bill? Services like Trim will speak with your provider to negotiate on your behalf and then charge you a portion of those savings. It’s a win-win.

Here’s how you can save on WiFi

1. Take advantage of free WiFi. Stay vigilant and connect to WiFi whenever possible. Keep track of the businesses that offer free WiFi, like Starbucks and McDonalds, as well as public networks, like the library or the subway.
2. Look into apps that help you access free WiFi. Check out apps like WiFi Map and Instabridge to find free WiFi hotspots.
3. For the traveler. If you are a frequent traveler then take a look at this map of airport passwords, which is updated regularly.