Telecommunications networks in Nigeria have different data packages to choose from. These two popular options are SME Data and Direct Data.
What is the difference between SME data and direct data? Since SME data plans are cheaper than direct plans.
In this article, we will answer any questions you have about these data packages and the benefits of each.
What is SME Data?
SME data is a package that is designed for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). This data package is meant to offer affordable internet access to these businesses for their operations.
SME data plans are available for telecommunication networks such as MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9Mobile. These networks allow businesses to buy data plans in large quantities and at a discounted price.
SME plans to offer 50% more data than the regular direct data plans.
Benefits of SME Data
- It is cheaper than direct data plans.
- It has a long validity period.
- It can be shared.
How to Subscribe to SME Data
To subscribe to SME data on MTN, dial *461# and follow the prompt. You have the option to choose between different validity periods and plans.
What is Direct Data?
Direct data plans are packages that are offered by network providers to customers. These are the plans you get when you dial the *312# code to purchase a data plan on any network, like MTN, GLO, Airtel, and 9Mobile.
Direct data is meant for individual customers who do not run a business and do not need to purchase data in bulk. These plans are usually more expensive than SME data plans.
There are still some mega-direct data plans that are suitable for businesses.
Benefits of Direct Data
- Ideal for individual use.
- Daily and weekly data plans.
- In most cases, data can be rolled over.
How to Subscribe to Direct Data
To subscribe to direct data plans on your network, dial *312# and follow the prompt. The available data packages and prices might be different depending on your network provider.
Comparing SME Data and Direct Data
Here are a few comparisons between SME data and direct data.
1. Pricing
When it comes to pricing, SME data plans are the winners. This is because SME plans are cheaper than direct plans.
2. Data Allocation
With SME plans, a single user can purchase terabytes of data with a validity of one to three months or more and share them with others. While direct data plans are limited.
3. Daily or Weekly plans
SME data plans do not have daily and weekly options, while those options are available on direct packages.
Conclusion
Now that you know the difference between SME data and direct data, it is up to you to choose the suitable option.
If you are a small business owner, SME data plans are a good option due to their affordability. But if you just need data for daily use, then direct data options are perfect.
FAQs
Is SME data different from normal data?
Yes, SME data is designed for small businesses. It offers more data at a lower cost, while normal (direct) data is meant for individual use.
What is the difference between SME and gifting data?
SME data is for businesses and can be shared among team members, while gifting data is direct data that you can gift to another individual.
Does SME data finish faster than normal data?
This is not necessarily true. It depends on the usage patterns of the business or individuals using the data.
What does SME and corporate data mean?
SME data is a data plan for small and medium-sized businesses, while corporate data is typically for larger enterprises with different data needs.
What makes my data finish so fast?
Your data finishes faster when you engage in online activities like video streaming, online gaming, and large downloads. These activities consume large megabytes of data within seconds.
