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Understanding Internet Usage

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 managing 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 package doesn’t include unlimited data, you’ll see a notification when you reach about 75% of your data when you or someone in your home opens a web browser window and accesses a website. We’ll send another notification when you’ve used 90% of your data. When you’ve reached about 100% of your package data, another web browser notification is sent.

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 ensure that I get browser notifications?

We’ll send you a browser notification when you’ve used 75% of your monthly internet plan. We’ll send another notification when you’ve used 90% of your data. Finally, we’ll send another notification when you’ve used 100% of the data included in your monthly internet package.

As of January 31, 2020, it isn’t possible to opt out of receiving these notifications. However, if you’ve previously opted-out of receiving browser notifications, you can click on the following links from any device connected to the internet through your Rogers internet to start receiving them again:

Tip: If using a wireless device (phone/tablet/etc.), make sure it’s connected to your Rogers Home Internet’s Wi-Fi.

Why wasn't I notified that I went over my monthly data usage allowance?

Here are some possible reasons why you may not receive an onscreen notification:

  • Does anyone else in your home use the internet? Perhaps they received the onscreen usage notification and dismissed it. The View Usage Alerts in the internet section of your MyRogers account can tell you when these notifications have been sent and acknowledged.
  • Someone might have also received the notification in the past and selected the option to disable future notifications. You can turn the notifications back on using the opt-in instructions above.

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.