Latest news with #AT&T
CNET
2 hours ago
- CNET
I Work 100% Remotely With AT&T Fiber's Cheapest Plan: Here's My Secret to Fast, Uninterrupted Internet
If there's anything I've learned about internet in the past year I've been reviewing internet providers, it's that fast speeds are actually not the most important part of a good internet plan. Most of us won't be able to tell the difference between 400Mbps and 1,000Mbps. What we do pick up on, however, is latency or lag. When it comes to working remotely, low latency is key to getting through the day without interruption. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost your connection while trying to download or upload documents, high latency may be the culprit. I'm all for saving money on monthly bills. That's why I signed up for AT&T Fiber's cheapest internet plan, and despite several attempts from AT&T's customer service to get me to upgrade, I know I'll be sticking with this plan for a while. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more on average for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping or throw out your router, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own, just like I did. Before I started working remotely in my home office, I took these steps to make sure my Wi-Fi wouldn't drop out while I was uploading documents or joining a call, and I've rarely experienced any outages or lag, even with 300Mbps of speed. Here's everything you need to know to improve your home network (but were too afraid to ask). Locating local internet providers 1. Test your internet connection The first step to diagnosing and boosting your internet is running a simple speed test. Speed tests are an easy (and free) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably due for a router upgrade. How much speed does remote work require? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. At any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online in my home simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps is more than enough speed for me. 2. Pick a better internet plan When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" Here are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. Upload speeds are important While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet typically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet. Latency Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. 3. Optimize your router placement Routers and cables aren't the prettiest tech, and they tend to clutter up space, so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally, as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls, or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. My router is located just near my desk, on a shelf, where I can take full advantage of those Wi-Fi frequency bands. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or you rent from your ISP, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. 4. Use an Ethernet connection The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. 5. Learn how to switch Wi-Fi frequency bands Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. 6. Use a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Other considerations for remote work Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Use a VPN Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. Utilize IT or tech support If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Invest in an ergonomic work setup Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought this one from Amazon for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using cable covers or ties is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. Bottom line You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
Phone Arena
a day ago
- Business
- Phone Arena
Klarna launches 5G unlimited plan on AT&T network: price, perks and principal points
It's not just President Trump that launches his own mobile phone service: Klarna, the popular Buy Now, Pay Later platform, expands into cellular territory as mobile phone service is all about simplicity and that's why it's just a single offering: a 5G unlimited plan that covers the US (but will expand "soon" to the UK, Germany, and other countries).The Klarna phone plan operates on AT&T's network and will be launched officially in the coming weeks. Right now, there's a waiting list for US users to join. – Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO and co-founder of Klarna, press release statement, June 2025 The company has conducted some research and according to it, many Americans find changing phone plans too complicated, with half saying the process feels overly difficult. Klarna, which has more than 25 million active users in the US, is now entering the mobile space with a goal to simplify and improve the experience, as they put the new phone plan includes: Unlimited 5G data that "stays at 5G speeds" Nationwide coverage on AT&T Hassle-free setup "in minutes" – no need for time-consuming contracts, calls or store visits No fees for activation or cancellation Users can keep their number (or get a new one with instant eSim activation) Fully managed in the Klarna app Premium and international plans will roll out later this year, as well as services in the UK and Germany, and other new phone service would feature transparent pricing, flexible terms, and an easy onboarding process. Customers can switch to Klarna's unlimited plan in just a few taps through the Klarna app, keeping their current number or choosing a new one – no calls, paperwork, or store visits needed. Personally, even though I'm not a Klarna user myself, I find this super neat. Why? Well, I don't want to name any names here, but the fewer interactions I have with telco representatives, the easier my day goes. Sure, there are many who are super helpful among them, but I don't feel like testing my luck these days. Back to Klarna, though: the service offers – and these are Klarna's claims – nationwide coverage, straightforward pricing, no data slowdowns, and instant activation. Klarna's approach aims to meet modern consumer expectations by removing the usual friction found in traditional mobile carrier plans. Again, the new offering is built on Gigs' mobile services platform, which powers Klarna's simple, all-inclusive plan: unlimited 5G data, talk, and text for $40 per month, using AT&T 's network. Gigs co-founder and CEO Hermann Frank called Klarna's entry into mobile a step toward a new kind of connectivity experience – one that merges telecom with digital financial services. He described the unlimited plan as a significant upgrade for US consumers and emphasized Gigs' role in enabling that experience behind the scenes. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Business
- Tom's Guide
My favorite midrange phone is now available for the same low price that made me fall in love with it
I'm a big fan of the R Series phones from OnePlus, which takes many of the premium features found in that company's flagship phones and repackages them in a more affordable device. The OnePlus 13R is certainly part of that fine tradition, even if it costs a little bit more than its predecessor. But thanks to a current smartphone deal, you can get the OnePlus 13R for just $499 at Best Buy — and even wind up with a little bit of cash to spend on other gadgets. Best Buy currently lists the OnePlus 13R at its usual $599 starting price. But dig a little deeper, and you'll see that if you activate the phone with either AT&T or Verizon when buying it from Best Buy, you can save $100. On top of that, Best Buy is offering a $100 e-gift card whether you buy the phone unlocked or not. The OnePlus 13R delivers impressive battery life, strong performance from a high-end Snapdragon chipset and improved cameras over its predecessor. There's only a 256GB model, which means the phone starts at $599, but if you activate the phone with either AT&T or Verizon when purchasing it from Best Buy, the price drops to $499 — the same cost as the 128GB OnePlus 12R. Best Buy also includes a $100 gift card with your purchase. The OnePlus 13R delivers everything we love in a good midrange phones, starting with some of the best phone battery life we've seen. The phone fell just shy of 19 hours in our battery test, topping the average device's performance by an astounding 10.5 hours. When testing the phone for my OnePlus 13R review, I was also impressed by how much better the cameras were compared to the OnePlus 12R. The fact that OnePlus includes a 50MP portrait lens that doubles as a telephoto camera helps out matters considerably, but a new sensor for the main lens also captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance. I also appreciate the fact that unlike other midrange phones that use lesser chips, the OnePlus 13R turns to a fairly recent Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which powered some of the top phones of 2024. The catch is that OnePlus only offers a 256GB configuration for the OnePlus 13R. While the extra storage is nice, it also means the OnePlus 13R's starting price is $100 more than the 128GB OnePlus 12R available in the U.S. last year. That's where Best Buy's deal comes in, knocking off that $100 when you activate the phone with a carrier and throwing in that extra gift card to sweeten the deal. Don't want to commit to a carrier with your smartphone purchase? You can buy the OnePlus 13R unlocked at Amazon, which is currently selling the phone for $549 — a $50 discount.
USA Today
2 days ago
- Business
- USA Today
PGA Tour, AT&T renew title sponsor of Pebble Beach Pro-Am in multi-year agreement
PGA Tour, AT&T renew title sponsor of Pebble Beach Pro-Am in multi-year agreement The PGA Tour announced Wednesday it has signed a multi-year agreement with AT&T to continue as title sponsor of the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The length of the agreement was not announced, but AT&T has sponsored the event since 1986, continuing its streak as the longest-running PGA Tour title sponsor. Rory McIlroy won the 40th edition of the event this year on the famed links. 'We are honored to extend with our longest-running title sponsor in AT&T, a committed supporter of Monterey Peninsula Foundation and Pebble Beach Company for four decades,' PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said in a release. 'A legacy event on our PGA Tour schedule, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am holds a special place in the hearts of golf fans everywhere, and we are delighted to see this historic championship retain its association with AT&T.' Next year will be the 80th playing of the event on the Monterey Peninsula, with the first round set for Thursday, Feb. 12. "I was going to play it every year anyway, so it's kind of nice they're going to renew for one of these elevated events," Jordan Speith, an AT&T ambassador, said Wednesday at the Travelers Championship. "We saw what's possible on the tough end two years ago with obviously a crazy storm that knocks out the final round, and then we saw kind of this last year how amazing this model can look on one of the greatest golf courses in the world with one of the greatest champions that we've had in Rory winning there. "All in all, I think it's amazing. Having been on kind of single-year partnerships with the Tour the last couple years, to make a commitment there is really big for us players, for the PGA Tour, and hopefully AT&T reaps the benefits that they're hoping for as well." AT&T is the latest title sponsor signing a long-term agreement with the Tour, joining Valspar, 3M and John Deere, all of which signed agreements through 2030. The Pebble Beach Pro-Am is a signature event, thus requiring a bigger commitment from sponsors. Sports Business Journal's Josh Carpenter reports signature event sponsorships have been going for as much as $25 million annually.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Klarna Launches Waitlist for Mobile Phone Plan
Buy now, pay later provider Klarna plans to start selling mobile phone plans in the U.S. in the coming weeks. For $40 a month, subscribers will get unlimited text, talk and 5G data through AT&T's network, Klarna said in a press release. Other consumer brands have sold phone plans, including The Trump Organization and a group that includes Ryan Reynolds and the budgeting app plans to start selling mobile phone plans within weeks. The fintech firm—known for letting consumers break up purchases into four, interest-free payments—launched a waitlist for its mobile plan Wednesday morning. The plan will provide unlimited text, talk and 5G data within the U.S. through AT&T (T) for $40 a month, according to a press release. 'Klarna has saved consumers time and money, and reduced financial worry for over 20 years. With mobile plans we're taking that one step further, as we continue to build our neobank offering,' Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski said in a statement. Buy now, pay later firms' growth has slowed, prompting Klarna and its counterparts to start offering additional services to their customers. Some of these firms aspire to evolve into a digital 'neobank' by offering alternatives to traditional bank accounts, as well as debit and credit cards. Other well-known players have gotten involved with mobile phone plans. Actor Ryan Reynolds became an owner of Mint Mobile, which bought and resold service provided by T-Mobile (TMUS). (T-Mobile purchased the brand last May, the provider said.) The Trump Organization announced earlier this week that it is also selling mobile phone plans. Klarna has had a relatively eventful year. The company filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities in Exchange Commission in March as it prepared to hold an initial public offering. Klarna tabled its plans in April as the White House imposed tariffs on several U.S. trading partners. Read the original article on Investopedia Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
