Tightening Your Data Belt Can Save You Money

It hasn't taken Internet service providers very long to conclude that their all-you-can-eat pricing isn't as profitable as charging those who use more bandwidth streaming videos and music more money than those who pop on for a quick Facebook chat. Many are adopting flat-rate pricing or pricing tiers. The more you use, the more you pay. Many are even imposing limits on their customers. Complain all you want about the new plans, but there are only two ways around the problem: Use less or pay more.

Much of the advice on how to use less bandwidth will sound a lot like what you'd hear from any dietician who catches you at the smorgasbord: eat less or at least eat the healthy foods. It’s not an emotionally satisfying answer, but when it comes to broadband, it is either that or pay more. Like any diet plan, there are a few tips for making that easier: Watch the meter. Install bandwidth meter software on your computer. Cut back on video. Decrease resolution. Take control of ambush video. Avoid constant home surveillance. Restrict your online backups. Think twice about cloud music services. Share photos in moderation. Update your operating system with care. Avoid e-mail attachments. Turn off e-mail images. Browse e-mail subject lines. Run antivirus software. Explore nondigital activities.