Dad on laptop with daughter

Does Dad have the Internet speed he needs for his new gadgets?

Does Dad have a new smoker with a Wi-Fi thermometer to cook the perfect brisket? Or maybe you gifted him with a smart speaker so he can rock out with his favourite tunes this summer on the patio. Many Northerners are opting for gifts for Dad’s this year that connect to the home Wi-Fi. And the more gadgets connected – the more Internet speed your home might need! 

“Many people don’t even realize how many devices they have connected in their homes. It’s easy to forget about 4k smart tv’s, washers, home security, and even LED lightbulbs! So, when another fun gadget is added, it might be time to opt for an Internet plan with higher speeds,” says Derek Klassen, Sr. Manager of Product at Northwestel and dad to 3 boys. 

Many Northern communities (and the list keeps growing) now have access to unlimited Internet plans. This ensures Northwestel customers have access to endless data, and with that, peace of mind. But also having a higher Internet speed can make it possible for more devices to be connected simultaneously and retain fast speeds. This means optimized sports streaming, scrolling, and performance on all the fun Father’s Day gadgets.  

Not sure how to assess if it’s time to opt for more speed? Here are 3 questions to help you pick the best Internet speed for your home! 

1) How many people in your home will be using the Internet? 

Are your kids spending more time online while off from school? Or maybe you’re king/queen of the BBQ and hosting friends, family, and neighbours in the backyard under the midnight sun. 

An uptick in people can mean an uptake in connected devices. You might need more speed to accommodate the additional strain on your Internet. 

Whether you’re sharing music, facetiming with those too far to visit in person, or indulging in some online gaming – more speed will enhance your experience! 

Count up the total number of people who will be connected to the Internet in your home.  

 

2) How many devices are in your home that will be connected to your Internet?  

Sometimes it's easy to forget just how many gadgets are connected to our Internet. Let’s look down the list of common household electronics that use up available download speeds when connected.  

How many devices does your home check off? 

Home security systems 
Laptops / Computers 
LED lightbulbs 
Smart Watches (fitbit etc.) 
Washer/dryer machines 
Speakers (Google home, nest, etc.) 
Thermostats 
Robot vacuums 
Camera (security or doorbell) 
Fridge 
Gaming consoles and VR headsets (Xbox, Wii, PlayStation) 
Microwave 
Cell phone 
4k Smart TV’s 
Wi-fi printer 
BBQ / Smoker 
iPad / tablet 
Other....

 

What’s your total number of devices?  

If you have 5 devices or more connected at one time the Indy 500 of Internet speeds, A.K.A. our Unlimited Internet 500 plan, will be the top shelf Internet for your home.  

With up to 500 Mbps of download speed this is the fastest available Internet speed in the north. And who has time for anything but?  

 

3) How are you using your Internet? 
 

What you are using your Internet for also impacts the amount of download speed you will need. If you're an avid gamer, stream live sports on a 4k TV, or are accommodating a home office or smart home, you are going to want to make sure you have a higher download speed for optimized performance.  

 

Pick the Internet speed Dad needs 

You made Father’s Day great by gifting him the best gadgets of 2023. Now make it even greater with the Internet speeds he needs!  

It’s easy to upgrade your Internet plan at any time.

Visit: www.nwtel.ca/internet-plans