Broadband Internet Plans In 2011

With so many different broadband internet plans to choose from, finding the right package to suit your usage needs can be confusing at times. Many Australian internet providers offer competitive deals and even bundled services, for extra value.



There are three types of fixed broadband plans available.



Fixed internet plans depict a fixed line, normally an ADSL line for the connection. These types of connections are currently the most common, but the situation is changing. The ADSL service can be turned into a wire-free service within the home or office by connecting a router.



With a router, the fixed connection can be used as a wireless connection within the house or office on more than one computer or laptop. It allows families and workmates to share the internet connection.



Mobile broadband does not have a fixed line. Instead it relies on a transmission tower or 3G service to provide internet access. The mobile broadband plans can be accessed with a USB stick, also known as a mobile internet stick. The USB plugs into the port of the laptop, thus allowing internet access instantly as long as one in an area under coverage. This is sometimes also referred to as wireless internet. In addition, these days mobile phones (smart phones) can be used to surf the Net.



Prepaid internet plans are becoming more popular as they allow the user to manage costs effectively.



Before committing to an internet service provider, it is advisable to check the area of coverage. Going for the cheapest option could mean the area of coverage or bandwidth is limited, and may just turn out to be false economy. A slow connection or low data limit can also mean a very irritating experience.



Other things to look out for when comparing different internet service providers are download speeds, cost and download limits.



For heavy users, the appeal of an unlimited broadband plan is obvious.



If online gaming is a priority for you, or you download a lot of movies and TV shows, then a plan with fast upload and download speeds with unlimited downloads would be more appropriate. If, however, you mainly use the internet for checking your email and browsing the Net, then one of the cheapest, very basic internet plans would be sufficient for your needs.



Outlined below are some of the Broadband Internet Plans Australian providers are offering in 2011.



Company Name, Data Limit, Cost Per Month, Contract



iPrimus Bundle, ADSL 2+, 40GB, $29.95, 24-month contract

iPrimus Bundle, ADSL 2+ 40GB $29.95 12-month contract



BigPond Cable Bundle, 2GB, $29.95, 12-month contract

BigPond ADSL Bundle, 2GB, $29.95 24-month contract



Dodo Bundle, ADSL 2+, 20GB, $19.90, 24-month contract

Dodo ADSL Broadband, 1GB, $29.90, 24-month contract



Spintel Bundle, ADSL 2+, 5GB, $19.95, 24-month contract

Spintel Bundle, ADSL 2+, 5GB, $19.95, 12-month contract



Westnet Bundle, ADSL 2+, 20GB, $29.95, 24-month contract

Westnet, Broadband Only, 20GB, $29.95, month to month (no contract)



TPG Bundle, ADSL 2+, 100GB, $19.99, 6-month contract

TPG Bundle, ADSL 2+, 500GB, $29.99 6-month contract



These are some of the most competitive internet service providers in Australia, although there are other companies not mentioned here that also offer internet plans. Each company offers numerous packages, yet each package has slight differences.



There are many different combinations of internet plans but when you take a closer look, when all factors are taken into consideration, the prices work out to be about the same. That said, with so many internet providers competing for customers, the plan prices are decreasing steadily.



So when it comes to which internet package to choose, rather than price, worry instead about getting the combination of data and services that best suits your usage. Of course, from time to time one provider will offer an extraordinarily good deal and shake things up a bit!