Making sure that you've got a broadband connection that meets your needs is essential. This doesn't just apply to those who want a faster connection, but perhaps to those who have a connection that far exceeds their requirements and that could be costing them more money each month than they need spend. Check out these three basic categories of users to see which one you fit into and aid your choice of package.

Light User

A light broadband user will just need their connection for the basics. This includes checking and sending emails, surfing websites for information and occasionally downloading small files. A light user will use the internet for less than an hour a day and won't use their connection on a regular basis. If you feel that you fit into this category then you'll need just a modest connection speed and should not worry about any monthly data restrictions as you will rarely exceed them. This will reduce the cost of your package.

Medium User

The average internet user spends two or three hours online a day, whether actively surfing the internet or passively downloading files whilst they are doing something else. A medium user will use social networking, chat and stream videos from on demand catch up services or video sharing sites, usually during the same period of the day.

Medium users should not in general worry about their monthly data allowance, provided that it is ample and at least 10GB or more. Connection speed will be a moderate concern for all of the best internet interactivity to work, but an up to 8Mbps service will be more than enough for medium user purposes.

Heavy User

A heavy user will really want to thrash their connection, spending a long time online and downloading files that regularly run into the multiple gigabytes. They will watch loads of videos online rather than using the TV and many will play online games for a few hours. Heavy users may also conduct much of their business online, whether it's working from home or just internet shopping on a very regular basis.

A heavy user will want a package that doesn't restrict their monthly download limits too stringently, but will also need to familiarise themselves with any fair use policy that the provider puts in place. For a heavy user to get the most out of the internet they will want a connection that operates at the fastest possible speeds, preferably cable as this will ensure up to 50Mbps download is an option, though there are 24Mbps ADSL alternatives.

Things to Consider

If you live in a household with multiple internet users you'll need to consider their needs as well. The collective household use of a connection may push you from a light user to a medium user, or from a medium to heavy and most broadband providers will let you know if you're exceeding their guidelines on usage, depending on the restrictions of your package.

As you become accustomed to your broadband connection and discover more of the potential for entertainment and education that the internet offers you may find that your use increase naturally, so pick a package that gives you room to grow as well as value.