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Top 10 Tips for Choosing the Right Business ISP

If you are a company of any kind, then your Internet connection will likely be a business broadband service, which will be provided by a specific ISP, or internet service provider. With such a huge range of options available, choosing the right service provider for your business can seem overwhelming, but it is crucial to your business to select the best service possible. This article will detail and highlight the top ten tips to help you choose the best possible ISP for your business, and in doing so, seek to help you resolve your internet connection woes.

1. Package

Most ISPs offer lots more than just an active internet connection. Depending on your business needs, it is necessary that you choose according to both the service provider and the internet package. For instance, if what you need is just an internet connection to send emails and carry out some basic online research, you should not waste your resources on a package that offers ultra–high–speed internet connection. On the other hand, if what you need is super–high–speed connection for streaming HD movies or extra services like broadband internet and phone bundle, then you should invest more into a package that offers the service you require.

2. Usage

You need to categorize yourself as per the usage you’ll be making on the internet. Typically, lower usage leads to lower bills. You can be a heavy, medium or a light user according to the criteria below:

  • Heavy users are those who constantly make use of online services. The bandwidth requirement for this category is over 50GB. An unlimited package is the most appropriate choice for those under this category.
  • Medium users use provisions like video streaming, multiplayer gaming, social networking, etc. which are real bandwidth hogs. The monthly bandwidth requirement for this category is about 30GB.
  • Light users are those who don’t use online provisions frequently. For example, they would only use web browsing and email for about one or two hours a day. The bandwidth requirement for this category is usually 5GB a month.

3. Speed

ISPs provide users with different service levels or plans for every connection type. The major point of difference between the service levels is the bandwidth speed. Since high–speed internet connection is essential in any business environment, choosing the right speed is one of the major decisions a business owner must make.

4. Connection Ratio

An internet connection might become congested if shared with and used by too many users at a time. The number of users you share your connection with is your connection ratio. Many residential connections might be a 50:1 ratio (that means 50 users sharing the same connection), while a business connection might have as low as a 20:1 ratio.

5. Network Priority

Depending on whether you require your internet data for additional services such as domestic–oriented applications, including video streaming and online gaming, some ISPs deprioritize applications like these (on request) to keep connection speeds up. If, however you require these services, you can prioritize your network to include them.

6. Equipment and Cost of Installation

Consider the equipment each service provider offers. Some services offer a basic modem, while others give gateways including a router with firewall protection, Ethernet ports, or even a built–in Wi–Fi router. Cost of installation or activation is another variable. Some ISPs provide free installation and activation, while others charge a waiving fee for the service depending on your contract.

7. Cost

You probably want to pay some attention to price as well. Just like other business sectors, ISPs vary in price as to the service they provide. Though you may want to consider price, you might want to avoid making it the prime factor in your decision. Just ensure the internet connects at your desired speed and loads webpages quickly and efficiently.

8. Spam Protection

A good business ISP will offer strong protection against spam, viruses, spyware, abuse control and backup protection. If you pay good money for your internet connection, you wouldn’t want it to work against your business by delivering spam, viruses, spyware and other distractions. Therefore, choose a supplier with a good track record and reputation.

9. Upload and Download Speeds

If you need faster upload and/or download speeds, look for a supplier with a broadband connection that allows uploads to be much faster than a normal connection. For instance, Annex M technology allows uploads at up to 3MB, which is more than what a normal line offers.

10. Customer Support

Ensure that the ISP you choose has a good customer help line and support system. The last situation you want to find yourself in is having a deadline and not being able to access the required information simply because the internet is down, and you’re wasting valuable time trying to get through on the phone or waiting for an agent to come around. Dedication and consistency are the key factors when searching for the right ISP for your business.

Finally, the best ISP is the one that works the best for your business needs. Take your time to research the services, software and costs available through each supplier. Think about your business needs and match them up. Once you are satisfied with all these factors, relax and enjoy your internet access.

 

Blogtrepreneur
 

Blogtrepreneur is a website where busy entrepreneurs learn to strategically use blogging as a way to exponentially grow our business and make more money.

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