If you are using an unlimited internet plan in your home you have less to worry about than someone who is using a plan based on the amount of data they use. Whether it be your children, or a virus on your computer, extreme use of your data can result in hefty internet bills. There are many virus like programs out there, that will install themselves on your computer, and then use your computer like a server to access the internet. I have been victim to this type of virus and had an internet bill of many hundreds of dollars. It was practically impossible to use that amount of data on my own.

Computer repairs
Photo: Sunfox

Before I called for computer repairs, I did some research of my own. I was the victim of spyware and malware that went undetected by my big-name anti-virus software for some time. Nonetheless, I had to pay the bill, which prompted me to change the way I use and monitor my internet. Controlling, monitoring and protecting your internet from sabotage and unauthorised use is extremely important, even if you are using an unlimited plan. If others are using your bandwidth, your internet speeds will slow down. Here is a look at the best ways you can control internet use.

  • Content Security. Most browsers offer a certain level of content security. The only problem this can be easily manipulated. Children will soon work out how to manipulate this because they are often more adept with their computer use than their parents. Content security applications are available, and many of them are free to download.
  • Anti-virus. We have all needed computer support at one time or another because our computer is acting very strangely. In most cases, it was because of a virus. Anti-virus programs are very important, and we are still susceptible to virus invasion. The bigger name brands are always better because they will update to the alert of new viruses faster. Some spyware or malware are designed to make your computer a host for internet access by other computers, and this can cause a huge amount of interent use without you even knowing. These kinds of malware exist of many websites and we don’t know.
  • Bandwidth Manager. Knowing exactly what process or program on your computer is using bandwidth is another way to tell what you are using. The best bandwidth manager applications will breakdown the upload and download speeds with each process operating on your computer. This is the easiest way to see when your computer has been infected. You can compare this amount of usage with the amount displayed by your internet service provider. When the two amounts are different, you know there is unauthorized access at your location.
  • Wireless Passwords. Wireless in the home is very common. It makes using your internet easy and there is just less hassle with fewer cables. It is important you have a password for access. Newer model wireless routers can broadcast very far, and more modern laptops can pick up the weakest of signals. This can mean all of your neighbours are enjoying free internet without your knowledge.

Malware that hijacks your broadband internet connections are becoming increasingly common. Even the best anti-virus programs may not detect them, and it is recommended you use a program that is specific for monitoring spyware. Spyware monitors your computer for being monitored and abused.