Emails and surfing online don’t tend to use much data; however, videos, games and apps can run up much more internet usage—not only because rich HD video can make the file size larger, but also because you might not even realize how much you, or others in your household are using. For example, it’s easy to get lost binge-watching a new series. Automatic updates for software or file backups can also result in unexpected data downloads and uploads. Taking advantage of the best of the internet usually means more data usage.
What are usage estimates for common online activities?
As a general guideline, here are some sample estimates of file sizes:
| File size estimates* | What you can do with 200 GB/month | |
| Emails with attachments | 300 KB each | 1000 emails |
| HD photos | 2 MB each | Plus upload 2000 photos |
| Songs | 5 MB each 4-minute song or 75 MB/hour music streaming | Plus download 2000 songs |
| YouTube™ | 5 MB/minute or 300 MB/hour video streaming | Plus watch 50 hours of YouTube™ |
| HD movie or sports game: | 5 GB each | Plus watch 20 movies |
| Video Game | Can range from a few MB to 35 GB or more for an HD console or PC game | Plus download four 35 GB HD games |
- 1 GB = 1024 MB, 1 MB = 1024 KB
*These examples are intended as estimates only. The download/upload frequency and size of photos, videos, web pages, file attachments, applications, and other types of internet usage vary widely and could result in your internet usage exceeding your allotment.
If you want to stay connected online as much and as often as you like, an Unlimited package will give you the ultimate freedom. If you don’t enjoy Unlimited usage, or just want to keep track of your usage, keep in mind the tips below.
Tips to manage data usage
Check your data usage and usage notifications.
- To check your usage at any time, just visit rogers.com/myrogers and login. Select Internet from your Account Overview and your usage will be displayed.
- If your internet plan doesn’t include unlimited data, the account holder will get an email notification when you reach about 75% of your data. We’ll send additional notifications when you’ve used 90% and 100% of your plan's data.
Check file size before downloading
- This is especially important for video games as they can vary in size significantly (from a few MB to 35 GB or more.
- Online PC and console game stores will list the download size of the game on the store page.
Turn off peer-to-peer programs when you’re not downloading.
- When you download files using peer-to-peer services such as BitTorrent, you’re not only downloading large files - you may also be uploading files from your computer. Some applications may even stay open when you think they’re closed. Always be sure to completely exit any file-sharing applications when you’re not downloading, and always turn off your computer when you’re done.
Regularly scan your computer for viruses and spyware.
- Some viruses are designed to send mass e-mails (SPAM) from your system or use your connection to attack other computers on the internet. This may increase your usage and slow down your computer. Spyware and adware pose similar threats, infecting your system and either sharing your information or displaying unwanted pop-ups and banners. Take the time to install security software to protect yourself and keep it updated.
Make sure your home WiFi network is secure.
- Don’t risk allowing someone you don’t trust to access your Internet connection. Pick a password that can’t easily be guessed and update it regularly.
- And finally, although you may be aware of your usage allowance and how to optimize your experience by following the tips above, it is also important that you make everyone in your household aware. Share this information with everyone who uses the internet connection in your home.
How can I make sure that I get usage notifications?
We’ll send you an email notification when you’ve used 75% of your monthly internet plan. We’ll send additional notifications when you’ve used 90% and 100% of your plan's data.
Only the account holder will receive email notifications when you’re approaching your internet usage limit. Check your contact information to make sure the email address is correct.
Why wasn't I notified that I went over my monthly internet usage allowance?
Usage notifications can be delayed by up to 48 hours, so if you download a large amount of data you may go over before we can alert you. If you’re planning to download a large file (like a video game or movie) we recommend you check how much usage you have remaining using your MyRogers account before proceeding.