Every business has unique needs and goals. That’s why it’s essential to do your homework before choosing a business internet service provider (ISP). Not all ISPs are created equal and neither are the businesses they serve.
First, let's take a step back and review the current state of your business. What are your priorities? What are your future goals? This analysis will help you identify the critical elements needed to run your business smoothly and the aspects that will support future growth.
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, it's time to explore the ISP options available in your local area and any region you might expand into. You might be surprised by the variety of choices out there.
Need some assistance? We, at Elevity, will help you conduct a thorough search to find the best providers that can meet your specific requirements.
In fact, Elevity is dedicated to helping businesses like yours develop a complete, robust office technology strategy. Whether it's optimizing your internet connectivity or ensuring seamless integration of your tech infrastructure, we're here to support you every step of the way.
However, we’ve found that there are nine common elements that businesses, especially small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), should consider when searching for a business ISP. These are great starting points to help you understand what your business will need and what kinds of services are available in your area.
- Internet Connection Types
- ISP Service Area
- Internet Speed and Bandwidth
- Your Security Requirements
- Internet Connection Reliability
- Ease of Scalability
- Customer and Service Support Availability
- Contract Length Options
- Your Budget Parameters
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance. Elevity is ready to dive into and make sure your business is equipped with the best technological solutions positioned to help you thrive and grow!
1. Internet Connection Types
The location of your business may determine which internet connection options are available to you. In the early days of the internet, dial-up was common. Today businesses have faster options, even in rural areas, such as:
Fiber – This is a type of broadband connection used to describe fiber-optic internet. It’s also the fastest connection currently available. Fiber is commonly found in most urban and suburban areas. However, this option is quickly expanding – even into smaller towns and rural areas. Currently, a little over half of the United States has fiber internet available and this is growing.
Cable – Uses coaxial cables. This type of internet connection can be similar in speed to fiber. However, if multiple businesses and/or households in your neighborhood are accessing the same cable system at the same time, it could slow down your connection speed.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) – Uses telephone land lines to provide high-speed internet access. These types of internet connections became popular 20 years ago, but they are still available today. DSL is faster than dial-up or satellite and may work well for a small business.
Satellite – Installing a satellite dish connection may be an option if you have a wide-open area with a clear view of the sky. Commonly found in very rural locations. However, if your business is deep within a forest, you’ll need to look for other options.
Fixed Wireless – Similar to satellite but uses wireless towers to transmit internet to your business's antenna or access point, offering more reliable service in rural areas compared to satellite.
5G Cellular – Major cellular companies are now offering internet services through their 5G networks. This is an option in most urban areas and is continuously expanding into rural regions.
2. ISP Service Area
Does your business have one location or multiple? Are your locations within the same geographic area or does your business span across several states? If available, contracting with one ISP provider for all your locations can simplify billing and service needs. However, if your locations are geographically dispersed, you may need to look into multiple ISP provider options.
3. Internet Speed and Bandwidth
Keep your customers (and employees) happy with fast and reliable internet service. Because the alternative is a slow and unreliable business internet connection, which could frustrate your customers and reduce your potential sales volume.
Faster speed often means higher cost. That’s why it’s important to determine the needs of your business and plan for the amount of bandwidth that you’ll use on a regular basis. A small business won’t need as much as a larger one.
4. Your Security Requirements
In today’s highly digital world, a cyberattack could be lurking around any corner. That’s why proactively preparing now could save your business from big headaches later. Every business (even SMBs) are at risk of a cyberattack. Don’t assume that your business will not be targeted.
Your chosen ISP will be a part of your cybersecurity strategy. In addition, working with a Managed IT Services provider can assist in keeping your network safer, 24/7. Creating a robust cybersecurity strategy today will help to deter bad actors. Without it, you’ll be putting your company at greater risk of receiving a costly ransom note asking you to pay to unlock your data.
5. Internet Connection Reliability
A reliable internet connection is key to office productivity. Before signing with an ISP, find out what their average annual uptime is. Is it 97%, 98%, 99% or higher? Also consider requesting a Service Level Agreement (SLA) to be a part of your contract. That way, in case your internet connection is down longer, your business will receive a discount or credit to your account.
6. Ease of Scalability
The ISP that you choose to work with today may fit your needs, but where do you see your business in five years? Or ten years? Choosing an ISP today that is positioned to grow with your business could save you from future headaches.
Another thought to consider is where your workforce will be located and how it might change as your business grows. Will your future workforce be in-office, remote, or have a hybrid schedule? Be prepared by evaluating your remote technology and consider a cloud-based virtual desktop infrastructure along with an ISP prepared to evolve with your growing business.
7. Customer and Service Support Availability
Know in advance what your options are to contact your ISP before your service goes down. Can they be contacted by phone? Does their website have an interactive chat feature? And will your ISP have tech support available 24/7?
Do your research and find out what your options will be to contact customer service or report a service request. Also ask about the ISP’s technicians – are there local technicians available in your area in case you need on-location support?
It’s better to ask now, rather than later as not all ISPs are the same and neither is their customer support.
8. Contract Length Options
Business ISP contracts are typically two years in length. However, many ISPs offer other term lengths as well. Longer term lengths may present savings for your business. In addition, we suggest that you read the fine print to learn exactly what the terms of service will be, including any penalty fees in case you need to cancel the contract early.
9. Your Budget Parameters
While you are weighing your options, be sure to include your budget and the cost of the ISP’s services as considerations. Having a fast connection is important to a business but be mindful of your budget. That’s why keeping an eye on your changing needs will benefit your business as it grows!
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