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Question

Major Internet usage

by Jan 12, 2012 6:17AM PST

I just got a new computer with Windows 7 Professional 64-bit on it. I am using Hughesnet as a Internet provider and I am limited to 250 MB download limit in a 24-hour period. Now for the problem I am having. Apparently there is something on the computer that is eating up my 250 MB fairly fast. I figure it is downloading updates or something, but I cannot figure out what it is. I have gone into the Automatic Updates on Windows 7 and told it to "Never Download Updates". Is there some way that I can figure out what is causing my problems? I know Hughesnet sucks, but I live out in the country and have no other choice but to use Hughesnet or dial-up service. I hope you understand what I am talking about here.

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3 Posts
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Answer
You're right.
by Forum moderator Jan 12, 2012 6:20AM PST

I've found that even if I turn off Windows updates there can be my antivirus that will eat that much daily.

250MB a day is so slim today that I fear your best bet is to keep looking and install a firewall. Block everything and NEVER look at any video site or enable images or html in email.
Bob

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Answer
Limiting Internet usage
by Jan 12, 2012 11:00PM PST

I used to have the same problem. A few years ago, I lived out in the country and my only option was WildBlue or dial-up. My usage was limited and I was constantly being blocked by the ISP due to the amount of data that I was using.

Other than Windows updates, there may be other programs that are being automatically updated. For instance, if you have program such as iTunes that are set to automatically update, then much of your bandwidth can be used there. If you go to the Hughesnet website, they should have a program you can download that will monitor your bandwidth. If they don't, you can definitely download one from CNET. After using this program for a couple days and checking the logs, you should be able to find exactly what is using up your bandwidth.

You can also try contacting the company. When I had WildBlue and got close to my bandwidth allotment, I would call customer service. If you have a good standing with the company, they may reset your usage so that you can get your speed back. Usually this method is a one-time-only or a one-time-every-so-often solution, but it's worth a shot.

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Answer
Major Internet usage
by Jan 14, 2012 6:41AM PST

Wow, that's a very tiny amount of data usage, especially for a PC plan. Even smaller cell phone data plans offer 2GB data plans. I have Comcast and their limit is 250 GB per month. I have never come anywhere close to this even by ordering hundreds of pictures online, watching videos, etc. Just keeping up with all your software updates can go through your limit very quickly.l So far, the most I ever used in a month with uploading and ordering hundreds of pictures online was about 6GB. I don't know much about HughesNet, but it sounds like a big rip-off to me. Unfortunately, if you're in an area where you can't get normal dsl or cable internet, I don't know any other way to help.

I don't know where you live and/or if you can get decent cell service, but if you can, you might want to check into a smartphone and buy a hotspot plan that allows wifi tethering. Then you can log onto the internet through you cell phone's modem.

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