What happens when you turn off your mobile data?

Your cell phone can connect to the internet using cellular data or WiFi. Using either of these network options or both simultaneously will give you internet access.
 

Here’s what typically happens in each scenario:

When both options are available, your phone will prioritize WiFi connectivity over cellular data. It will automatically connect to the last known WiFi network with a saved password within range.

This is because WiFi networks generally offer faster speeds and lower latency and are often more cost-effective regarding data usage.

It depends on your needs and preferences whether it’s better to have cellular or mobile data on or off.
 
Consider these choices to create the best outcomes for you and your family.

You’ll need cellular or mobile data turned on when you want to access the internet and use online services when you’re not connected to a WiFi network. Your device can then connect to the internet using your cell phone carrier’s mobile network.

Using cellular data consumes data from your mobile data plan, which may lead to additional charges. If you have a limited data plan or want to avoid exceeding your data allowance, turning cellular data off when you’re not actively using it can help conserve your data and prevent unexpected charges.

Using cellular data can consume more battery power compared to connecting to WiFi. If you’re trying to maximize your device’s battery life, turn off cellular data when WiFi is available and sufficient for your needs.

The cellular network signal strength may be weak or inconsistent in some situations. Consider disabling cellular data if you’re experiencing poor network quality or coverage.

When you turn off cellular data, the behavior and functionality of your phone can vary depending on whether WiFi is available. Here’s what can happen in each scenario:

Your phone will prioritize connecting to WiFi networks for internet access. With a stable WiFi connection, you’ll access data through WiFi, which will not count towards your mobile data plan limit. Disabling cellular data will not affect your ability to browse the internet, use online services, or access data-intensive applications.

When you turn off cellular data and don’t have access to a WiFi network, your device will lose its ability to connect to the internet. You won’t be able to browse the web, use online services, or access data-dependent social media apps requiring an internet connection.

However, you can still send and receive text messages, make calls, and use other non-data services. Call and text services operate through your mobile network’s voice and messaging capabilities, which are separate from cellular data.

Disabling cellular data primarily affects your access to the internet and data-related activities. Without data services, you can still make calls and send text messages.

Turning cellular data off has several benefits:

Turning cellular data off can help reduce your cell phone bill in the following ways:

• Reduces data use charges: Mobile service plans can include a limit on the amount of cellular data you use each month. You may incur additional charges or experience reduced data speeds if you exceed the data limit. Turning off your cellular data can avoid the extra costs of exceeding your data limit.
• Avoids roaming fees: Roaming allows your device to connect to foreign networks, but with data costs that can be higher than your regular plan. Using cellular data can be expensive because of international roaming charges. To avoid unintentional data usage or expensive roaming fees while you’re abroad, disable your cellular data.
• Eliminates background data usage: Some apps on your phone may continue to use cellular data in the background even when you’re not actively using them. You can restrict these background activities and prevent unnecessary data consumption when you turn off cellular data.

Turning cellular data off reduces your phone’s battery usage by preventing your phone’s constant attempts to connect to a mobile network to receive messages in your social media and email apps. It also stops background data usage from mobile apps that can drain your battery.