Whether you are a sole trader or a large corporate business, being connected to the Internet is vital to your success, no matter what industry you are in.

Being connected to the Internet is essential in today’s business world and an unreliable or patchy connection can lead to loss of productivity and loss of income. With so much trading being done online nowadays, the internet offers businesses access to a whole new customer base and offers companies a valuable platform to create crucial brand awareness.

Much like the broadband you use in your own home, there are many options for business broadband on the market to choose from. Business broadband packages can be tailored to suit your business so you can choose the service which is right for you.

How to choose a broadband package

When choosing your business broadband package you need to pick one that is reliable and secure. Having a broadband connection that is weak or irregular can lead to a loss in productivity and cause serious security risks. Hackers can easily get into weak connections and this could put any sensitive information you possess at great risk. Needless to say, this would be disastrous for any company.

Picking a broadband package that offers you dedicated lines and guaranteed speeds is essential for a company that needs a reliable and fast Internet connection. Having your broadband delivered through dedicated lines means that you won’t be sharing your internet connection with anyone else. This is ideal for large and smaller businesses who want exclusive access to the internet to guarantee broadband speeds and quick connection.

Types of connection

ADSL

An entry-level broadband service which is delivered over analogue copper telephone lines. ADSL provides download speeds of between 2MB and 24MB (dependant on the distance to the exchange), whilst upload speeds are typically below 1MB (hence the A in ADSL – asymmetric). ADSL is gradually being replaced by FTTC/FTTP products (see below), but is still used when fibre infrastructure is not possible. ADSL2+ and Annex M are two extensions to ADSL that can increase data transfer speeds.

Superfast and fibre optic

No matter what size your business is, you will need a fast Internet connection that you will be able to rely on. Superfast broadband and fibre optic broadband packages offer businesses unrivalled levels of security and optimal efficiency and fibre optic broadband travels down cable made from a mixture of copper and fibre (FTTC and/or FTTP) that allow for the superfast speeds. Choose a fibre optic broadband package you can tailor to your business needs to guarantee the best value for money.

Ethernet

Larger businesses may want to consider an Ethernet connection, which is ideal for large premises and multiple offices. If data is crucial to your business and you rack up large amounts of data usage then an Ethernet connection may suit your company best. This type of internet connection allows you to share large data files, use conferencing solutions and experience high quality voice and video services. Ethernet also offers increased reliability and increased security levels, which is vital when sharing any kind of company data.

MPLS

MPLS networks are the perfect solution for large companies with multiple office sites. MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) allow businesses to connect all sites efficiently and effectively which will reduce costs. Large businesses can also benefit from large bandwidths and a private network to ensure the highest level of security.

EFM

Ethernet First Mile has become a popular connection for small businesses as it is reliable, consistent and comes at a competitive price point. Access is via a low-cost leased line technology from an all-copper data connection where bandwidth is dedicated to your business alone.

WLA (Microwave or Satellite Internet)

This is a wireless network option with a high-frequency band and is useful for businesses in remote locations which are not served by cabled connections. Other advantages include: high capacity, speed, and security. The two main disadvantages are: microwaves are limited to ‘line of sight propagation’, so you must have a clear line to the transmission equipment, and also microwaves can be affected by rain, so in times of heavy precipitation there can be some connectivity interference.

Bespoke packages designed to grow as you do

With all the choices available to companies, it can be tricky to know what business broadband to go for when picking your package. It is important to try and choose a broadband provider who will offer you a tailor-made package in order for you to receive the best value for money. You don’t want a provider who will try to sell you a huge broadband package with Ethernet networks if you only have a small office and 5 employees.

Similarly, large businesses may need help in understanding just how much broadband width and speed they will need in order to achieve optimum efficiency and productivity.

Business Broadband Providers

List of Business Broadband Providers in the UK

Look for a business broadband package which allows room for growth and updates should your business need it. Your end goal will be to create a large and successful company and you will need your business broadband to be able to grow alongside your business.

Read more

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How should I select my business broadband provider? – It’s important to do your research and ask important questions before you select a broadband provider. But what are the must-have things you should take into consideration?