Your Mobile device can connect through Cellular Data (4G/5G/5G UW) or Wi-Fi. When connected through your Cellular Network, any usage is counted towards your monthly data allowance.
While you have access to Cellular Data at all times, we recommend connecting to your Blue Ridge Internet/Wi-Fi whenever possible to save on data consumption. With Blue Ridge High-Speed Internet you have Unlimited Data, so we can use your Mobile device within your home, while on your Wi-Fi network without the worries of using your Cellular data!
How much Data do I get with my plan?
- Our Shared Data option will provide you with 1GB/line. For example, if you have three lines on the Shared Plan you will have a total of 3GB per month that is shared amongst all lines within your plan.
- Our Unlimited and Unlimited Max plans both provide Unlimited data.
Additional Data Details:
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- Blue Ridge Unlimited. After a line uses 30 GB of high-speed data, it will experience reduced speeds up to 256 Kbps for the rest of the billing cycle. After a line uses 5 GB of Mobile Hotspot data, it will experience reduced speeds up to 600 Kbps.
- Blue Ridge Unlimited Max. After a line uses 50 GB of high-speed data, it will experience reduced speeds up to 256 Kbps for the rest of the billing cycle. After a line uses 10 GB of Mobile Hotspot data, it will experience reduced speeds up to 600 Kbps.
- Blue Ridge Shared Data. You will receive 1GB of data per line. After you use your allotted data, you will be charged $15/GB. If a line uses more than 5GB, that line will experience reduced speeds up to 256 Kbps for the rest of the billing cycle. Customers also have the option to upgrade to Unlimited.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a wireless internet connection that allows you to access the internet without needing a wired network. It is commonly used in homes, offices, and public spaces, and provides convenience and flexibility. Wi-Fi networks are set up through a router/HomeFi, allowing you and those within your home to connect to available networks within range. Unlike cellular data, Wi-Fi does not incur additional costs based on data usage and is a reliable option.
What is Cellular Data?
Cellular data is a popular and convenient method of internet connectivity that uses cellular networks to provide service when a Wi-Fi network is unavailable. It is the standard for smartphones and allows you to access the internet without the need for a local Wi-Fi network.
However, it can be costly as you are charged based on the amount of data used each month. One of its key advantages is the mobility it offers, allowing you to have internet access on the go as long as there is coverage available.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and Cellular Data?
While most devices can connect to the Internet in multiple ways, there are two main ways - Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Wi-Fi connections are made by accessing a network that already has an established connection. For example, if you are a Blue Ridge HomeFi customer- this is your Wi-Fi network. To access your Wi-Fi connection, you need to be near your router/HomeFi.
Cellular data is accessed through the nearest cellular tower. It provides access wherever you are as long as you are within range of a tower. Wi-Fi will connect instantly when you come in range of a wireless router (as long as your device approves the Wi-Fi connection), whereas cellular data may take up to three seconds for that same connection before it is available again after switching networks.
What is 5G?
5G is the latest generation of wireless technology for mobile networks. 5G technology provides significantly higher data speeds than previous generations, enabling faster downloads, smoother streaming, and improved overall performance!
What is 5G Ultra Wideband?
It's important to note that even though you may have access to a 5G/UW connection, the data that you're consuming will still be the same amount, however, this can make it easier to use more data at a quicker rate.
How is Mobile/Cellular Data Measured?
Examples of Activities that use Mobile Data when not connected to Wi-Fi.
- Checking email
- Posting and scrolling on social media
- iMessaging (for iPhones)
- Using Google Maps and other GPS navigation
- Browsing the Internet
- Music streaming
- Video streaming
- Downloading and using mobile apps
How much data will I use/How can I monitor my data usage?
You can monitor your data usage at mobile.brctv.com under My Account>Data Usage.
Examples of Data Usage Consumption*
- Social media Apps can consume up to 50MB of data per hour
- Gaming apps can use up to approximately 300MB per hour
- Google Maps can use up to 5MB per hour
- Internet Browsing can use up to 50MB per hour
- Online Gaming can use up to 70+MB per hour
- Streaming Music can use up to 100MB per hour
- HD Streaming can use up to 4GB per hour
- Streaming a 4K Film can use up to 7GB per hour.
*The estimates provided above are approximate values. Data Transfer amounts/usage will vary based on individual use. Be sure to use our online portal mobile.brctv.com to manage and view your data usage.