I got my first internet connection in Home during 1998, using dial-up internet of speed 16 to 24 kbps (yes, bits per second) using a dial-up cum fax modem of 56kbps. For getting connected one has to try minimum 3 times, out of which one will be junk connection for sure. Each attempt of Getting connected to internet takes minimum 2 minutes. We have to dial STD number to Madurai. So Internet is sold in hours and we have to pay STD LL call charges as well, so it comes to around Rs8 to Rs10 per minute (for speed less than today's post FUP speed of mobile data). Internet used to be a Luxury at those times.
Later BSNL ADSL came, starting 128kbps and I got 256kbps plan, with 512MB (yes, MB) monthly usage limit for day time and FREE UL during mid-night 2AM to 6AM. I remember using alarm to wake up on 4:30 AM to download stuff. Some people used schedulers for torrents using that plan.
Later came the Local wireless internet using WiFi 5GHz, but it was totally un-reliable. Used that for 6 months only. Speed offered is 2Mbps, but never reached above 128kbps during morning time.
Later BSNL came with WiMax technology similar to Local Wireless, but with dedicated BW on 2500MHz spectrum. Speed is 512 kbps with UL data and NO FUP. It was surprisingly stable and we all loved it.
Since the experience of consumers was very good, BSNL decided to close the contract with the Pvt Co and returned the spectrum back to Govt.
Then came Local Fiber connection with 5GHz Wireless Backup option. They provided Wireless internet (5GHz) during Fiber cable cut as backup - Zero Down-Time. Initially Speed offered was 10 Mbps for Rs2500 per month, later they increased the speed and reduced the tariff. Currently using 200Mbps for Rs999 per month.
Another backup connection, I am currently using is BSNL FTTH, 60Mbps for Rs499, with UL Calls FREE. Tertiary connection Rs299 plan with 10Mbps data in ground floor.
Used 5G FWA of Jio last year and closed in 11 months due to un-reliable in nature and complicated T&C.
I just laugh when my kids say "Internet is so slow around 20Mbps", in second floor as router is far away in first floor. They have taken internet for granted. Later I extended the (Local fiber) connection (wired) to that floor with separate router as AP.
Thanks for bringing back the old memories. Mobile data is yet another level story, for another day.
