Having a reliable internet connection is essential for any modern business. With the right type of connection, you can keep your operations running smoothly and provide customers with better service. But with so many different options available today, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
It's important that you evaluate the various types of business internet connections to make sure you select one that provides you with the speed and reliability that your operations require. During your assessment, you must also consider several factors, such as the size of your business, the type of activities you'll be using the internet for, and your budget.
With that in mind, let's take a look at the common types of internet connections that are available for businesses.
Cable internet
Cable internet uses the same infrastructure as cable television and is one of the most reliable and widely available options for businesses. It typically provides download speeds of up to 2,000 Mbps, making it a great choice for activities like streaming videos or downloading large files.
Unfortunately, cable internet can be expensive, and the speeds are shared with your neighbors, meaning that your connection may slow down during peak hours.
Cellular internet
Cellular internet is often seen as a backup connection, but it has come a long way in recent years and can be an excellent option for certain applications. It's ideal if you need to stay connected while on the go since it's available almost anywhere. Plus, it doesn’t require any installation or hardware setup, so it's easy to get up and running.
Take note, however, that the speed and reliability of cellular internet can vary greatly depending on the provider and your location. The latest generation of cellular technology, 5G, boasts of speeds of more than 1 Gbps, but the average cellular connection lies around 70 Mbps.
Related reading: How much internet bandwidth do you really need to work remotely?
DSL internet
DSL stands for digital subscriber line, and it's a popular and affordable internet connection that uses copper telephone lines to transmit data. It can deliver speeds of up to 100 Mbps, making it suitable for basic internet use like emailing and web browsing.
The main drawback of DSL is that the speeds are limited by distance, so if you're located far from your provider's hub, you may experience slowdowns.
Fiber-optic internet
Fiber-optic internet has become the gold standard in business internet connections, with download and upload speeds of up to 940 Mbps. It's also extremely reliable and less susceptible to outside interference, such as bad weather.
However, it's worth noting that fiber-optic internet is not available in all areas, and installation can be costly. Plus, you may need to invest in hardware and other equipment to get the most out of your connection.
Satellite internet
Satellite internet is an old technology, but it's still a great option for rural areas where other connection types are not available. It can provide speeds of up to 150 Mbps and is not affected by distance, since it's delivered via satellites orbiting the Earth.
On the downside, satellite internet tends to have data caps at lower prices and can be expensive compared to other options. Still, if you're in an area with no other options, satellite internet can be a lifesaver.
The best way to figure out which type of internet connection is right for you is to speak to a professional who can assess your business's needs and recommend the most appropriate solution. Our specialists at outsourceIT can help you compare prices, speeds, and service packages so that you get the most out of your investment. Call us today to get started!
