Everything You Need to Know About Choosing the Right Internet Connection for Your Business
In today’s fast-paced and connected world, a stable high-speed Internet service for businesses is not an option but a necessity. This is one of the reasons many companies invest in the best infrastructure and a reliable Internet service provider. There are instances, however, when you may need to get a new Internet connection. Whether your company is moving to a new location, upgrading infrastructure, or simply needs a better service, getting a new connection requires careful planning.
This guide is to help you get you started finding a new high-speed Internet service for your business.
Things to Consider When Getting a New Internet Connection
Finding the perfect Internet service for your business goes beyond looking for one that offers the fastest speeds – or the most reasonable price. Here’s a short list of things you need to look into when shopping for a new service:
Types
There are tons of high-speed Internet technologies on the market today that you can choose from. Your choice could depend on several factors, such as your location. If you’re located in a rural area, for instance, some services may not provide a stable connection.
Speeds
Internet service providers offer packages with different speeds. Your choice should depend on how your business uses your Internet connection. Are you downloading and/or uploading large files? Do you stream videos regularly? How many computers will be sharing the connection? These are the questions to ask when you’re deciding to upgrade your Internet connection or not.
Network connection and equipment
Modems are often connected to just one computer. Other computers will be connected through a router. Will you need wireless connection in your office? If yes, you may also need to have multiple wireless routers.
Uptimes
When looking for high-speed Internet service for your business, you’ll find many providers offering 99.999% uptimes. Guarantees like this are very common, but most of the time this promise is unfulfilled. Look into the details and consider having a back-up connection or service in case your main Internet connection goes down.
Internet Connection Options
Now that you know which factors you need to consider when looking for a new Internet connection, it’s time to learn about the options available to you. Understanding the different types of Internet connections makes it easier to decide which one is best for your company.
You wouldn’t one to get one that offers average speed and reliability when your company creates and access huge amounts of data daily. In the same way, you wouldn’t want to choose super high-speed Internet service if you have a small team and won’t be doing much downloading/uploading or streaming.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
DSL works with an already installed telephone line. It offers speeds of several hundred kbps to a few mbps. Speed and availability, however, often depends on the distance of the nearest telephone facility to your location.
Cable Modem
If a DSL is to telephone lines, then a cable modem is to TV sets. The Internet service is delivered the same way as your TV cable service. Speeds are similar to those offered by DSL service providers.
Satellite
Satellite is a form of wireless Internet service and is great for providing Internet connection to remote areas.
Fiber
Fiber Internet is one of the latest technologies. Initially, this type of high-speed Internet service for business would cost you a fortune. Good news, though! The cost of Fiber Internet has significantly gone down. You can now get speeds that are much faster than DSL and cable modems for a reasonable price. You’ll find services under $1000/month. Shared fiber connections are offered for about $300/month.
Installing a New Internet Connection
A common question among companies planning to get a new high-speed Internet service for their business is “How soon should I order it?”
If you’re moving to a new location or having construction done to your current one, ordering a new connection should be done at least six months ahead. It would be best to include it in your pre-construction planning. Sure, you may still be getting the service from the same carrier but the set-up or blueprint may not be the same anymore. Your carrier may need to do something outside of your office, such as switch your connection from cable to fiber or change the circuit.
Another item to consider is testing your new IP address. While it may take some time for your connection to be installed, some providers may be able to provide your new static IP address ahead of time. It’s a good idea to ask about it so you can program your new IP into your LAN or firewall and then test when the installers come. This way, you’d be able to reduce possible interruptions and use your new connection without a hitch once it’s up.
Getting a new high-speed internet service for your business doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper planning and help from professionals, you’ll be able to choose the best one for your company.
