Monitoring Internet Usage: Bigpond's Guide To Online Activity

Monitoring your internet usage is a great way to avoid overage fees and keep track of your data usage. There are several ways to monitor your Bigpond internet usage, including:

- Using a router: Many routers have built-in tools that allow you to see how much data each device on your network is using.

- Using your ISP's app: Many internet service providers (ISPs) offer apps that allow you to view your data usage and set usage limits.

- Using third-party tools: There are several third-party tools and programs available that can help you monitor your internet usage, such as GlassWire and NetWorx.

- Using your smartphone: You can use the built-in tools on your smartphone's operating system to monitor internet usage and set data limits.

Using a router or modem

One of the most effective ways to monitor internet usage is through your router or modem. Many routers and modems have built-in tools that allow you to see how much data each device on your network uses.

To access them, you’ll need to log in to your router or modem’s web-based interface. This can usually be done by checking the documentation that came with the device or by doing a quick online search. You’ll also need your IP address, which can be found by searching “what is my IP address” on a search engine.

Once you’re logged in, you can go to the router’s settings to see usage information about all connected devices. Newer routers and modems will also allow you to set usage limits or restrict access to certain websites.

For example, popular mesh routers like Nest WiFi and Eero allow you to check total bandwidth consumption and monitor individual devices on your network. This can be done by opening the companion smartphone app and looking under the general internet options for statistics. Similarly, ASUS routers have bandwidth monitoring in the "Traffic Analyzer" tab of the router interface, while TP-Link routers have it in the "System Tools" menu, under "Traffic Monitor".

Bandwidth monitoring at the router level has significant advantages over checking your usage through your ISP's data usage charts. Firstly, it's real-time, so you know exactly how close you are to breaking through your data cap. Secondly, most routers will allow you to drill down to the device level so you can see what each device on your network is contributing to your overall download and upload bandwidth.

However, there is one minor downside to how some routers handle bandwidth monitoring. While some routers allow you to set a specific time frame, some are limited to pre-specified lookback windows like the last day, seven days, or thirty days. Others allow you to use a calendar function to select a specific period. If the view window in your router's dashboard doesn't match your billing cycle and you can't adjust the parameters, the stats are accurate for overall bandwidth usage but won't perfectly align with your ISP's accounting of your "monthly" use.

Using an ISP's home network management app

These apps often have features that allow you to manage your WiFi network, such as setting up guest networks or scheduling times when the WiFi is turned off.

Using third-party tools

Third-party tools are a great way to monitor your internet usage. These tools can be downloaded and installed on your computer or mobile device, providing detailed insights into your internet usage. Here are some of the best third-party tools for monitoring internet usage:

GlassWire

GlassWire is a popular third-party tool that helps you monitor internet usage in real-time. It provides detailed information about data transferred, including which websites and applications are using the most data. GlassWire also offers alert features, notifying you when you're close to reaching your data limit. It also allows you to set usage limits for specific devices or applications.

NetBalancer

NetBalancer is an advanced program that enables you to monitor internet usage on Windows operating systems. It provides a comprehensive overview of your internet activity through graphical representations and allows you to monitor multiple network adapters. The premium version offers additional features, such as setting speed limits for each running process.

BitMeter OS

If you're looking for a lightweight and unobtrusive tool, BitMeter OS is an excellent choice. It runs in the background without slowing down your device, providing an easy way to track your internet bandwidth usage.

FreeMeter Bandwidth Monitor

FreeMeter is a portable tool that can be installed on a USB flash drive and run on any computer. It is lightweight and monitors your download and upload speeds, as well as bandwidth usage, without impacting your computer's performance.

DU Meter and PRTG Traffic Grapher

DU Meter and PRTG Traffic Grapher are two additional third-party tools mentioned specifically for Bigpond users. These applications help monitor your overall internet usage, but they include all data flowing through your computer, including unmetered sites. Therefore, they may not accurately reflect your usage on metered sites.

Monitoring usage on a smartphone or tablet

Monitoring your internet usage on a smartphone or tablet is a straightforward process. On an iPhone, you can access the "Cellular" section of the Settings app to view data usage per app. This section also allows you to set usage limits or turn off cellular data for specific apps. Android phones offer similar functionality in the "Data Usage" section of the Settings app, where you can view data usage per app and set restrictions.

Additionally, you can utilise third-party applications such as GlassWire, which runs on your computer and monitors internet usage in real-time, providing detailed information about data transfer. It also includes features like alerts that notify you when you're approaching your data limit.

Using a hardware firewall

Monitoring internet usage is essential to avoid overage fees and keep track of your bandwidth consumption. While Bigpond does provide a usage meter, it has been reported to be faulty or slow to update. Therefore, using a hardware firewall is a great alternative to monitor your internet usage.

A hardware firewall is a dedicated physical device that sits between your modem and your internal network. All traffic passes through this device, allowing it to monitor traffic, protect against threats, and even take over routing functions. This provides a more comprehensive and flexible bandwidth monitoring and management solution than a basic consumer router.

There are two main options for setting up a hardware firewall: purchasing a dedicated firewall device or using an old computer with firewall software.

If you choose to purchase a dedicated firewall, the Firewalla platform is a popular option known for its small footprint, low power consumption, and reliable tech support. It offers an off-the-shelf solution that is easy to set up and use.

For those willing to put in some extra effort, you can turn an old computer into a firewall box using open-source software like pfSense or OPNsense. These projects are enterprise-oriented but freely available for home users and provide a high level of customization and control.

By using a hardware firewall, you can gain deeper insights into your internet usage and enhance the security of your network. It allows you to monitor traffic in real-time, protect against threats, and set specific time frames for monitoring, giving you greater control over your bandwidth consumption.

Frequently asked questions