This month, many data services saw a massive surge in the cost of their data plans. MTN particularly had a whooping 200% increase in what was once deemed an affordable internet service.
As the rising cost of mobile data in Nigeria has several people on edge, many are looking for alternative ways to stay connected. While many don’t plan to stop using data services entirely, other solutions like Starlink, public Wi-Fi, and fibre internet are gaining traction.
These alternatives offer better speeds, lower costs in the long run, and more stable connections. So, let us look at each one in-depth
Starlink: High-Speed Internet for Remote Areas
Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is transforming internet access globally, and Nigeria is no exception. This service caters especially to people in areas where traditional broadband is unreliable.
Mobile data services bank on cell towers to get the job of connectivity done, but Musk’s Starlink relies on satellite power to connect persons worldwide. Starlink prevails upon mobile data in terms of quickness, offering speeds of up to 250 Mbps. This makes it ideal for businesses, remote workers, and tech enthusiasts who need a stable connection.
However, Starlink’s major drawback is the same of new-term data plans, and that is cost. The hardware kit costs around ₦800,000, with a monthly subscription fee of approximately ₦38,000. Despite the expensive capital it requires upfront, it can be a long-term solution for those who struggle with unreliable mobile networks, as opposed to data that will need to be renewed regulalry.
Public Wi-Fi: Free but Risky
Public Wi-Fi has always been a popular option in urban areas. Fastfood chains, shopping complexes, certain hotels, and even some universities offer free or affordable Wi-Fi access. This is a great alternative for students, remote workers, and social media users looking to reduce their mobile data expenses.
However, no matter how convienet this means of connection is, it has always posed a safety risk. Hackers can intercept data on unsecured networks, making personal information vulnerable.
To stay safe, users should avoid entering sensitive information while connected and use a VPN for added security.
Fibre Internet: The Best Long-Term Solution
If a stable, high-speed internet connection is the necessity, then fibre broadband is the best alternative to mobile data. Providers like MTN HyNet, Spectranet, and FibreOne offer unlimited data plans with speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 100 Mbps, making them the best bet for streaming, gaming, and remote work.
Once again, this alternative has a high initial installation cost, but offers more reliable and cost-effective internet access in the long run.
The main downside with Fibre internet is that coverage is limited to major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Which Alternative is Best for You?
To be honest, the best option depends on your location, budget, and internet needs. Starlink is perfect for people in remote areas, public Wi-Fi is available to all but is likely only effective for casual browsing, and fibre internet is the best for those in urban areas who need a reliable home or office connection.
In the end, mobile data may still be the preferable connectivity service for many, and that’s alright as well. It is simply important to know what alternatives stand to know if loyalty to mabile data services is necessary, or if there’s a better option waiting for internet users.
What is your choice? Let us know down below.
