Today, wireless internet users are consuming data like never before. In fact, monthly global mobile data usage is expected to surpass 15 exabytes per month by 2018 — upwards from 1.5 exabytes monthly in 2013. When sourcing a file or transferring data from one device to another, you’ll commonly see Mbps and MBps used as metrics. These terms refer to data transfer rates, which are useful for gauging the performance level of your hardware devices.

With slight variations in appearance, it’s easy to get these two terms mixed up. Communications services leader RTC Communications in Rochester, IN, explains the difference.

What Are Mbps?

Mbps stands for megabits per second and is used when discussing download and upload speeds. For every megabyte that you download, you will need eight Mb. For example, if you are trying to download a webpage that is around two MB, you’ll need a download speed of at least eight Mbps to download the file in two seconds.  

Mbps is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a wireless internet provider. As a rule of thumb, the higher the Mbps, the faster your download times will be.

What Are MBps?

MBps refers to megabytes per second and is used when referring to file size, or the amount of data transferred. If a byte is a single unit of digital information, then one megabyte is equal to roughly one million bytes.

File size is typically measured in megabytes, whether it’s a 2.8 MB JPEG image, 20 MB video or 359.4 MB app. The size of your chosen file will determine how long it will take to download. If you find yourself constantly downloading files with considerable megabytes, you will benefit greatly from higher Mbps.

To discuss the best high-speed internet for your downloading needs, talk to the experts at RTC Communications. This service provider has been in business for over 120 years and, in that time, has grown to become a national industry leader thanks to its early adoption of fiber broadband internet. With download speed capabilities of up to 100 megabits per second, this networking service is the ultimate solution for all web surfing needs. To learn more about RTC Communications’ wireless internet services for residential customers, visit their website or give them a call today at (574) 223-2191.