About Internet usage
About Internet usage
Internet usage is the amount of data you send and receive (upload and download) through your Internet connection. High usage activities include downloading movies and streaming videos.
The speed of your Internet connection does not affect how much usage you incur.
Bell Internet plans include different usage allowances. If you exceed your allowance, the excess usage will be charged at the rate specified in your plan.
The maximum charge for usage over and above your plan allowance is $100 a month.
To find out how much usage is included in each plan:
- New customer? Compare Bell Internet packages to see how much usage is included in each.
- Already a customer? Log in to MyBell to see the usage allowance for your plan and to track your monthly usage.
Tracking your usage
Tracking your usage
To view your current and past Internet usage:
- Log in to MyBell on your computer
Internet usage tracking starts at midnight on the first day of your billing cycle and ends at midnight on the last day.
Similar to other telecommunication services, such as mobile phone and long distance airtime, any usage not consumed by the end of your billing cycle will expire and does not carry forward.
Usage notifications
Get near real-time notifications online and by email when you come close to the Internet usage allowance included in your monthly plan.
Controlling your usage
Controlling your usage
Some online activities consume more usage than others. High-usage activities include streaming video in 4K or HD, online gaming, downloading movies and videoconferencing. You should also be aware of how many lower-usage devices in your home access the Internet in the background, such as smart home devices. Below are some tips to help control your usage.
| Prevent unauthorized use of your Internet connection | Encrypt or password-protect your wireless home network to prevent unauthorized users from logging in to your account. |
|---|---|
| Set up a guest network to share Wi-Fi access with trusted guests. | |
| Never share the user ID and password for your Bell Internet account. | |
| Install and regularly update your antivirus software. | |
| Install security updates recommended for your operating system. | |
| Limit file sharing programs | Some popular peer-to-peer file sharing programs (e.g., Bit Torrent, Shareaza) will upload shared files to others, by default, as fast as your connection will allow. This activity is often invisible to you, but can accumulate significant usage. Check the program’s preferences and ensure the upstream Internet is limited. |
| Minimize high usage | Turn off streaming video, music and onine games while you’re away from your device. |
| Prevent spam | Install software to help prevent spam. |