A slow and unreliable internet causes expensive downtime and employee frustration. If your current internet isn’t cutting it, you might be wondering how to pick a new business internet provider.
Finding the right ISP (internet service provider) can be a confusing process. For example, what impacts your internet speed and which connection type do you need?
We cover the basics of internet services so you can learn how to choose an ISP to fit your business needs.
The Different Types of Internet Services
The number of options you have to choose when it comes to connection type vary depending on where you live. Fiber-optic connections are faster than broadband, but fiber isn’t widely available in the United States.
These are the most common connection types:
- DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
- Cable
- Satellite
- Fixed Wireless
- Fiber Optic
- Dial-up
The type of connection you should get depends on where you live and the needs of your business.
Finding the Right Connection Speeds
With tech innovations improving technology in ways we never thought possible, fast internet speeds are a must-have for any business.
Your internet needs depend on many factors like the number of employees and the size of the files being transferred. You don’t want to overpay for a service, but you also don’t want to be stuck with slow internet.
- 25 Mbps or less: A speed between 15-25 Mbps is okay for businesses that have one or two employees. This speed is acceptable for web browsing, email, and light file transfers.
- 25-50 Mbps: The next step up is good for a handful of employees with basic internet needs.
- 50-75 Mbps: This is a good speed for a business that has remote workers. This plan usually offers data backup and more stability with video conferencing.
- 75-100 Mbps: This is a middle-ground speed that is ideal for businesses with more employees.
- 100-150 Mbps: Ideal for e-commerce needs and web hosting.
- 150 or more: This speed is perfect for growing businesses with lots of employees. At 150 Mbps or more, sharing files of any size is possible.
The speed you need depends on the type of business you have. The best internet for small businesses might be different than the needs of a company with hundreds of employees.
Speed also depends on where you live. In Hawaii for example, an aging infrastructure impacts internet speed. Pac-Wave offers high speed and high-capacity services for any business.
Consider External Factors
Are a lot of users online at the same time? If your current connection can’t handle heavy traffic, line congestion might be slowing down your speed.
The age and type of equipment you use also impact your speed. Older wireless devices may not reach 150 Mbps, so you may not get the speed you’re paying for.
Another factor to consider is how many devices are on the network at once. Multiple devices might slow down your internet speed. Fiber would be a good choice if you can afford it.
Even the size and shape of your office makes a difference. Walls and distance can impact wireless range.
Finding the Best Business Internet Provider for You
A business internet provider should offer a reliable speed you can count on. It should also have great customer service in case your internet goes down.
How much speed you need depends on what’s available and how much data you need. Ask your ISP for a consultation to get a price quote.
Want to learn more about topics like this one? Check out our business blog for a variety of interesting business articles.
