This guideline refers to the policy: GEN006 (interim) Remote Connectivity. For a more detailed overview on connection types, connection speed and data caps, view the Internet connectivity while working remotely web article.  

Note: This is an interim policy, it will be replaced. Staff and managers should consider this when deciding on options and the value of an allowance. Staff and managers are reminded that this is a new cost to the University, at a time where we are under severe financial pressure, and that most staff are incurring savings on transport to and from work.

Data usage bands

Typical data usage is difficult to quantify accurately and will vary according to job type.  The following categories are general indications that can be taken into account by staff when determining how best to cater for their needs:

Light use (under 30GB per month):
  • Mainly email communication
  • Some voice calls (Skype for Business or MS Teams)
  • Few online meetings/lectures per week (up to 5 hours), with little or no use of video
  • Use of transactional systems (e.g. SAP, PeopleSoft) with few downloads
  • Mandatory Security updates
Medium Use (30 – 50GB per month)
  • Normal email communication volume
  • Several online meetings/lectures per week (5 -15 hours), with some with use of video
  • Some use of other channels (messaging, chat, etc)
  • Use of other UCT systems, including some reports/downloads
  • Mandatory security updates
Heavy Use (over 50GB per month):
  • High email communication volume
  • Over 15 hours per week of online meetings/lectures, often with video
  • Significant use of other channels (messaging, chat, etc)
  • Mandatory security updates
  • Use of other systems, including movement of data (between those systems and staff member’s machine)