How much internet speed you need for your living situation depends on several factors when choosing an apartment. Sure, you can turn your smartphone into a Wi-Fi hotspot if needed. However, you might have limited capabilities before you reach the Wi-Fi data limit for your plan.
Your location is one consideration because not all locations may have the same internet providers. It also depends on what fiber optic networks are available in every city.
Our guide helps you determine your internet needs when living in an apartment in Joplin, MO. We’ll go through several factors so you understand how much to budget for internet access.
Activities on the Computer
What activities do you perform on the computer? Do you use it for work, streaming, or gaming? All of these things use internet resources differently.
Depending on what kind of work you do, you might need a lot of data if you participate in remote meetings on a regular basis through Zoom or Google Meets. File downloads and uploads, especially through peer-to-peer platforms or cloud services like Google Drive, can monopolize bandwidth if you deal with PDFs and large file sizes.
Downloading large files or syncing large folders consumes significant data, slowing down other devices on the network. Uploading files, like sharing videos to social media, can similarly affect internet performance around your apartment in Joplin, MO.
Streaming on your computer requires high download speeds and high data usage to work properly. Platforms like YouTube, Netflix, or Spotify require constant data downloads to deliver high-quality content without buffering or interruptions.
Higher video resolutions, such as 4K or 1080p, drastically increase data usage. Lowering the quality settings can reduce the strain on your internet speed and data cap, or you can upgrade to a higher level of streaming.
If you love online gaming with other people, your internet speed and data must keep up with the fast pace of gaming. Multiplayer games require low latency and steady data streams to ensure smooth gameplay.
Large game updates or downloads, often ranging from gigabytes to tens of gigabytes, can use significant bandwidth. So, just like streaming, you can lower the quality of the gaming experience or upgrade your internet speed for your apartment in Webb City or Joplin.
Background updates and syncing can silently consume internet resources in the background. Operating system updates, antivirus database downloads, or cloud backups often run without you even knowing it. Disabling automatic updates or scheduling them during low-usage periods can help maintain steady internet performance.
Work or Play?
Using your computer for work or play can influence how much internet speed or data you need for your activities.
Work-related internet use often involves video conferencing, file sharing, and accessing cloud services. Platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams require stable connections, with higher-quality video feeds consuming more data. Collaborating on shared files or managing large-scale projects, especially in data-heavy industries like design or video production, requires excellent internet and data download speeds.
Recreational activities like streaming videos, playing online games, or social media browsing can vary in data consumption. High-resolution streaming on your favorite streaming platforms consumes substantial data, while casual browsing on social media typically requires less. Gaming, especially multiplayer titles, demands steady internet connections.
Both work and play may involve multitasking, further increasing your internet demands. For instance, running a video call while streaming music in the background or downloading files can push your connection to its limits. Prioritizing critical tasks, like work calls, ensures smoother performance during high-demand periods. Consider focusing on just one task at a time if you need to preserve your internet connection and data download speeds.
Are You Using a Laptop or Desktop?
Laptops and desktops can both come through for you with work and recreational tasks. But they have different capabilities.
Laptops
Laptop computers are designed to handle internet speeds with ease. However, because they have slimmer profiles, it is more difficult to upgrade their memory capacity and processor speed.
Also, not all laptops will have hardwired internet connection ports. They will rely mostly on Wi-Fi connections to function properly. So, if you have a laptop, make sure to get an internet connection that has reliable and secure Wi-Fi connections.
Keep in mind that Wi-Fi connections must have robust security to protect your network. Make sure you know what kind of encryption you have in place to keep hackers away from your files and computer.
One advantage of a laptop is that you can work almost anywhere. You also don’t need as much desk space when working on a laptop. The camera for remote meetings is embedded into the top of the laptop’s screen.
Desktop Computers
Desktop computers generally have faster processing speeds, higher memory capacity, and better internet cards for more robust connectivity. Desktop computers have a hardwired port and a wireless connection. You might favor a hardwired connection for better internet security versus Wi-Fi because someone can’t try to hack into a hardwired connection without seeing a Wi-Fi connection available.
One downside of a desktop is that you’ll have to invest in a camera and possibly speakers for meetings. You’ll also want speakers if you want to stream videos on a desktop. And, as the name implies, you’ll need a larger desk for the desktop as well as a monitor or two. So, make sure your apartment in Joplin, MO, will have enough space for a desk and home office.
However, you will likely have an improved experience with your internet connection.
How Many People Will Be Using the Internet?
Another facet of internet usage in your apartment in Joplin will be how many people plan on using your internet connection. Is it just the adults in the household? Or will kids need the internet for schoolwork?
If you’re just using the internet for work while your children can handle things on the phone, you might not need as much internet as if everyone in the house needed to use the internet. Another thing to think about is when others will need to use the internet. If you’re working and two kids need a Wi-Fi connection for homework on a laptop, you’ll need robust Wi-Fi throughout the apartment in Joplin, MO.
Internet Security
Internet security on laptops and desktops offers robust protection for sensitive data and maintains safe browsing habits when children are using the computer. Awareness of potential risks and proactive measures helps users safeguard browsing, work-related tasks, online shopping, and personal information.
Wi-Fi networks pose unique security challenges, particularly when connecting to public hotspots. Unsecured networks can expose devices to cyberattacks, such as man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks or data interception. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks like online banking, and always use a VPN to encrypt your data. Make sure to set up your home Wi-Fi network properly with the proper encryption.
Hardwired internet connections via Ethernet cables are inherently more secure than Wi-Fi. They reduce the risk of unauthorized access since physical access to the network is required. Additionally, Ethernet connections typically offer more stable and faster speeds, which are ideal for activities requiring high security, such as remote work or financial transactions.
Regardless of the connection type, you should always maintain up-to-date software. Operating system updates, antivirus programs, and firewalls provide critical security patches to defend against new threats. Regularly updating these tools ensures your system remains protected from malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
See these tips for robust internet security at home:
- Use strong passwords and encryption protocols, such as WPA3, based on what your internet provider recommends.
- Change the default router settings, disable remote access, and enable network firewalls to make the security protocols stronger.
- Segment your network by creating separate connections for guests and tablet computers.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive accounts.
- Back up data regularly.
- Install security software that meets your requirements.
Your internet provider can give you additional tips on how to do this properly.
Best Internet Speeds for Apartments in Joplin, MO
The internet speeds you need will depend on your desired usage. Internet providers often charge rates based on speed and data limits. So, understand how much you need before choosing your service provider.
1. Basic Usage (1-2 people)
For light internet use like browsing, checking emails, and occasional streaming in standard definition, speeds of 10-25 Mbps are usually sufficient. This is ideal for individuals or small households with minimal online demands.
2. Moderate Usage (2-4 people)
If multiple devices are connected and activities include HD streaming, video calls, and some online gaming, speeds of 50-100 Mbps are recommended. This range balances moderate internet demands without significant slowdowns.
3. Heavy Usage (4+ people or high demands)
For larger households or apartments with high internet usage, such as 4K streaming, frequent large file downloads, or simultaneous online gaming, speeds of 200-500 Mbps are better. These speeds have improved performance even when multiple users are active.
4. Gigabit Internet (High-Performance Needs)
If you rely on ultra-fast internet for work, such as video editing, cloud computing, or hosting servers–or if you want future-proof speeds for advanced smart home setups– consider 1 Gbps or higher. Gigabit, sometimes called fiber internet, minimizes latency and maximizes productivity, even during peak usage times.
Considerations for Internet Speeds in Apartments
In multi-unit buildings and apartment complexes, bandwidth can be affected by network congestion, especially if multiple apartments share the same internet service provider (ISP) infrastructure. Choose higher speeds to account for this.
Invest in a good router or mesh Wi-Fi system to ensure consistent speeds throughout the apartment, especially in larger or multi-room spaces. Make sure to have robust security.
Internet Providers in the Joplin Area
Internet providers in Joplin vary from local providers to national carriers. What you select is up to you. Make sure to read reviews and research the top recommendations based on reliability, customer service, costs, and available internet speeds.
National providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, Mediacom, and Starlink are available in Joplin. National carriers often have the best infrastructure for internet connections. However, their customer service may be hit or miss. Affordability and packages vary. National providers might also have better security protocols for their hardware.
Local or smaller carriers for internet in Joplin may include, but are not limited to:
Wisper Internet provides Wi-Fi for rural residents.
Liberty Connect has reliable, flexible internet solutions.
Sparklight offers internet speeds up to 1 gigabit for your complete internet needs.
Total Highspeed internet features no contracts, no data caps, and robust internet speeds.
As you can see, there are several internet providers available when choosing one for your apartments, Joplin or Webb City. We’d be happy to let you know what you need when getting started with the internet for your one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartment.
Welcome Home to Our Apartments in Joplin or Webb City
We think you’ll love our apartments in Joplin or Webb City, part of a vibrant metropolitan area. All of our properties are ready to have the internet installed based on what you need. Contact us or call (417) 624-4144 to schedule a tour with our team. We look forward to meeting you!
