First, you need a very reliable Internet option that is working when you need it. It could hurt your bottom line if you lose customers and sales because of unreliable Internet service. Next, remember that a higher speed is better. The more connections you need, the higher the bandwidth. Some applications, such as file sharing and online backups, require higher upload speeds. A fast Internet connection allows for:

• Increased productivity from quick file download/uploads.
• Better communication online with customers and colleagues via email, social media, and instant messaging.
• Effective website hosting offering the best possible experience for customers, with fast load times needed to allow customers to browse product pages and make purchases.
• Improved efficiency for sharing and real-time editing of documents with customers and colleagues.
• Faster updates of critical operating systems, software, and anti-virus programs.
• Easy access to prospects, customers, and colleagues in distant locations.

It’s important to take time and think about which small business internet service provider is right for your business.

For broadband service, there are a number of options to choose from today.

 FIBER OPTIC SERVICE: fiber optic service, operates over a 100% optical network using light to send data over great distances at incredible speeds: “the speed of light.” These blazing fast speeds enable multiple users on your network to download, upload, stream, and share files simultaneously.

DSL: DSL, which stands for Digital Subscriber Line, offers a reliable connection over regular telephone lines to deliver fast download speeds. Because DSL uses a dedicated line, the speeds it provides are very stable and consistent.

CABLE: Cable delivers data through coaxial cables. It was developed as an upgrade from traditional “over-the-air” broadcasting and is available to customers with distribution lines in their area. One key disadvantage to cable technology is that customers in a geographic area share the bandwidth, so they may experience slow response times during peak periods.

SATELLITE:  connections use satellites to beam the Internet feed wirelessly to a customer’s installed satellite dish. For customers in rural areas, they are often the only broadband option. However, satellite services tend to be both slower and more expensive than other technologies. They are limited in their ability to connect to streaming content, and can be disrupted by weather.

It’s important to understand that when it comes to selecting your business Internet service, not all providers are the same. Look for a provider who offers you a complete and reliable communication solution that will allow your employees to share information quickly and easily. In particular, keep the following factors in mind:

• Reliability: What is the provider’s reputation for reliability? Do they have a proven track record in the industry?
• Service: How are they rated in independent customer surveys?
• Speed: What is the upload and download speed you can expect? Faster upload speeds save time and help increase productivity when performing high-bandwidth activities such as sending large files or backing up data to the cloud. Another important factor to consider is whether the bandwidth you are buying shared or dedicated to your business.
• Breadth: In most cases, the faster the Internet service, the higher the price. Look for a provider who offers a wide variety of plans and pricing so you can find the plan most appropriate for your business needs—and upgrade whenever needed.
• Support: If you experience outages or other problems with your business Internet, how quickly can you get assistance? Does the provider offer online, phone, and chat customer support? How painless is the installation process?
• Cost: Many ISPs offer discounts when you package their Internet service with their phone and/or television service, a practice called “bundling.” Some providers include Internet security  at no additional cost. Check to see if the provider you’re using offers bundled rates at a discounted price to save you money.
• Contracts and Terms: Does the provider you’re considering offer a firm, written estimate, spelling out exactly what services you’ll receive? Is a modem provided, or do you have to purchase and install it yourself? Do you have to commit to a certain contract length with early termination fees if you cancel early? Choose an ISP that offers terms that you’re comfortable with and that spells out exactly what you’re getting.

Small business owners need reliable and fast Internet service to keep them connected to their customers and suppliers. VASSIC is here to help you navigate through the maze of service offerings.