Due to higher than normal call volumes, we recommend you use our self-serve tool, MyXplore.ca, to activate or manage your account online.
Most streaming services can be set to lower resolutions to reduce their data requirements and allow for smoother performance. Many services are set to automatically select the video quality by default. However, you can change this setting to a lower level to help with streaming, reduce buffering, or lower the overall data usage from streaming video.
Instructions for how to manage your resolution settings can be found on the Xplore website:
Note some streaming services will also allow you to download a program or film to be watched later. Once downloaded, the video is played from your local device and is not dependent on real-time use of your internet connection. This should reduce buffering especially during high-traffic times of day.
Software updates are often downloaded automatically, using large amounts of data. This can be disabled or scheduled for off-peak times with many services. Instructions can be found below for some of the most common software:
Some services and operating systems include automatic backup of your data to cloud. If these backups are not vital or can be delayed, you can disable this feature on individual devices. Instructions for Mac and Windows computers are found below:
Some tips are included below for how to reduce the data consumption from digital assistants, smartphones and tablets.
With the recent increase in work from home arrangements and virtual collaboration, below are some tips to help you get the most from your Xplore connection when working from home:
These tips will help maximize your connection for remote working and e-learning.
Running multiple applications at the same time can impact the performance of video conferencing and e-learning applications. When you are on a video conference, close other applications you may have open on your computer, schedule automatic backups and large downloads to occur overnight, and coordinate with how other members of your home are using the Internet. For example, have a family member take a break from optional online activities (like gaming, or streaming videos or music) when other family members are on a videoconference or participating in e-learning activities. This will ensure that your most important activities have priority to your bandwidth.
If you do not need to participate in a videoconference with video, turning off your video stream will minimize the bandwidth you need to participate in the meeting. If you have a home phone or cell phone, dial in to the call instead.
Sharing your computer screen in a meeting also uses more bandwidth than just participating with audio. When you share your screen with other meeting participants, try to limit the amount of time that you need to share your screen.
Experiment with all the available video conferencing services and see if one works better than the others. Some people will have better luck with Google Meet or Teams than Zoom. For times when you have the ability to choose, use the platform that works best for you.
Zoom: Make sure to disable HD video.
Google Meet: Set your video resolution to standard definition or set it to “audio only” so that there is no option for video.
Microsoft Teams: Ask the administrator of your Teams account to adjust the bitrate for video and shared media to save on bandwidth.
To access your account visit www.MyXplore.ca and log in using your username and password (your username, in almost all cases, is the same email address where you receive your Xplore invoice). If you do not know your password or username, or you have not yet registered for MyXplore.ca, there are links right on the home page to assist you. All you need is your account ID and access to your primary email address.
You can always track your usage at MyXplore.ca. Once logged in, you will see a link on the home page called View My Data Usage. Here you will find usage and quota information for your current bill cycle, as well as historical data for past cycles.
If you need to temporarily suspend your services, you can request this through MyXplore, by clicking the Request a Temporary Service Suspension button on the home page. From this tool you can enter the beginning and end date of your temporary suspension, as well as a contact email address and phone number.
If you already have a service suspension in place, or have one scheduled for the future, and your plans have changed, you can modify these requests through MyXplore as well, including removing a temporary suspension effective the next day. Just click the View/Update Your Temporary Service Suspension button and edit the details as needed. Note that suspend/unsuspend requests must be dated at least one day in advance, as these requests are processed overnight automatically.
From within MyXplore.ca, you can:
Full control of your Xplore Home Phone service is at your fingertips. From the MyXplore home page, click the plus sign next to Home Phone to:
From the home page of MyXplore.ca, click the plus sign next to Email and you can:
If you are a new Xplore customer, you will need to create a MyXplore.ca account to begin using your connection.
Once you have created your account, log in and you will automatically be directed to a Customer Information page. This information should reflect what was given when signing up, but if you notice anything is not accurate, you can correct it on this page. Click Save & Continue.
Next, you will be presented with Xplore’s terms of use, as well as a critical information summary highlighting key elements of your agreement with Xplore, such as contract term, any discounts, monthly or one-time fees, and other information including details of your 30-day money back guarantee. Review this information and then click Accept or Decline. If you have any questions about information on this screen, please contact Xplore Customer Care at support@xplore.ca or 1-866-841-6001. Note: if you decline the terms of use, you will not be able to proceed with using the service.
Finally, you will be prompted to enter your billing information. Select your preferred method of payment: Credit Card or Preauthorized Bank Account. If you select Bank Account, there is a sample cheque to guide you through entering the required information. Note that Visa Debit cards issued by Canadian Banks may be used; these should be entered by selecting the credit card option.
If you have also signed up for Xplore Home Phone along with your internet service, you will be automatically redirected to the Home Phone activation process once you enter your billing information. The Xplore Home Phone activation process consists of three steps: