If your startup small business is looking for an internet provider, or your existing small business needs a new provider we’ve got all the information you need right here. A lot of people believe that the only difference between internet providers and connections is price. There is a lot more you should be aware about though before you sign up to a contract.
Connection Types
First things first, what are the differences between types of internet connections? So you’ve heard broadband, and high-speed to describe pretty much all internet services, but what does it even mean? These terms basically cover anything that’s not dial-up. They’re broad, vague terms. What you really need to know are the different, specific connections, so here they are:
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Fiber – This is the newest and most advanced type of connection out there at the moment. Fiber optic connections allow for download speeds of 15 to 150 mbps and upload speeds of up to 35 mbps. Most internet providers are opting for this connection as it tends to be not only the fastest but the most reliable. If you have several people on the connection too it means that the higher your download speed, the more efficient your office space will be!
Cable – as one of the most popular options for an internet connection, cable is run on traditional television cable lines. Its download speeds can vary from 50 to 100 mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 10 mpbs. It can be used simultaneously by a few dozen people but the upload and download speeds are less efficient than a fiber connection. Because cable lines are shared speeds can be slower during peak hours (9-5).
DSL – As the cheapest type of connection you have to expect that the speed won’t up to scratch compared with the other types. Download speeds can reach 15 mbps but upload speeds might only be 1 mbps. There can up to a dozen of user on the same line, but they will need to have a level of patience!
How to Find the Best Wireless Internet Provider for You
So now that you understand the differences between the connections, how can you choose the right small business internet provider for you? Here are a few of the things you need to look for:
- Value for money
- Download/ upload speed (Mbps)
- Internet Security
- Reliability
The Top Small Business Internet Providers
Source: cordcuttersnews.com
Verizon FiOS –
With 300 Mbps download speed and 65Mbps upload rates, Verizon FiOS is one of the best choices for small business internet providers. While it is a bit more expensive than its competitors, if you are looking for high-speed and reliable, Verizon is something you should consider expanding your budget for.
If speed is what you need but your budget just cannot stretch, you can save money by signing a longer-term contract or, bundling your phone service into the same deal. The great part about singing up to Verizon is that you can avail of the Wi-Fi hotspots all over the country if you need to travel with your business.
Charter Communications –
Source: prnewswire.com
If you want to start with an internet service that suits the amount of people working in your business rather than paying for more than you need, Charter Communications may be a great choice for you. You can choose between packages with 30, 50, or 100 Mbps all depending on how many people will be connected to the service.
Charter also do TV and phone services and by bundling all of your bills into one, not only is it more convenient, but it can actually work out a lot cheaper. Charter aim to suit you and are therefore a great choice for a smaller, or startup business.
Mediacom –
Source: kcrg.com
For small and large businesses alike, Mediacom caters to pretty much everyone’s needs. If you’re a smaller business you can avail of plans with speeds of 5 to 10 Mbps, or if you have more employees you can avail of the Ultra plan with speeds of 105 Mbps.
Similar to the other providers on this list, you can bundle phone and TV services with your internet bill but it is a little more expensive than the others too. The other perk to Mediacom is that you can also bundle music services which is a great addition to certain types of businesses.
Source: findcableservice.com
AT&T U-Verse
With the most reasonable pricing on the list you need to commit to at least a year with AT&T. Though the speeds are a little slower, if your business is that bit smaller, and you don’t perceive your employee numbers growing a huge amount, it’s definitely a great choice.
AT&T cater to several different kinds of businesses with bundle plans, data backup, tech support, and even smartphones. It can be a great choice for any smaller business so be sure to check out if it suits you.
Featured Image: Thinkstock/ NicoElNino