7 Best Business Internet Service Providers of 2024
You've built a thriving business and you rely on the internet for all your transactions, products, and communication with clients. You need a reliable business Internet Service Provider (ISP) with fast connections at affordable prices.
While most business ISPs provide fast internet connections, there are several other factors that you must account for. The most essential one is the type of internet connection you want. There are four internet connections on the market, namely:
- Fiber-optic cables
- DSL cables
- Cable internet
- Satellite internet
You may feel overwhelmed but fear not. In our guide below, we reviewed the best 7 business internet providers available for you along with the features that you need to look for when choosing your internet package.
Let’s get started!
Best Business Internet Service Providers
1. Verizon
Best overall business ISP for small and big companies
Verizon stands out in several ways when compared to other business internet service providers.Verizon is praised for its lightning-fast fiber-optic speeds and guaranteed uptime. These are important factors to consider if you wish to increase the number of users on their networks without sacrificing reliability.
Additionally, the company's reputation for providing superior customer service to its business customers is a plus. Other internet service providers—for example, Comcast Business—are renowned for the opposite.
With Verizon’s 99.99% Fios uptime guarantee, the service provider ensures that you will only experience a maximum of five minutes downtime in one month. Verizon has a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that will credit your monthly bill if the uptime is less than 99.99%.
However, Verizon is not without flaws. Verizon's fiber-optic network in the northeastern United States is limited to a few dozen zip codes. That is a significantly smaller footprint than other business internet service providers.
Moreover, the plans are more expensive than other similar internet packages from another provider. Verizon's DSL plans are significantly slower than the competition, which the company's higher prices do not compensate for the poorer connections.
Finally, customers reported some concerning complaints about latency. Latency is the delay or waiting time that it takes for Verizon to send information from one connection to another. With high latency, your connection may stall or slow down, causing low-quality Voice-over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls and interruptions during upload and download.
Pricing
Verizon has three internet plans catered for small to high volume businesses, called the Fios-branded plans. The connections are delivered via fiber-optic cables for fast and reliable internet.
All three plans have ‘symmetric’ connections, meaning that you can upload and download large files at high speed. Symmetric connections are also essential for HD video calls or VoIP calls without any interruptions.
Big companies will greatly benefit from Verizon’s Fios Gig Connection with its blazingly fast connection to suit the most demanding internet needs. The plan has an internet speed of 1Gbps and downloading speed of 940 Mbps.
In addition to the monthly cost of Verizon internet services, you may be charged for installation or early cancellation. Verizon does not charge installation fees we could find, but you will pay $99.99 to activate a new Fios 100 Mbps internet connection.
Moreover, if you cancel a two-year agreement early, you will be responsible for 35% of your base monthly charges for the remaining months of the contract. To operate your business's internet, including the Wi-Fi network, Verizon requires a $24.99 router for DSL lines.
Since fiber plans require more advanced equipment, you are required to purchase the $199.99 (or $9.99/month) Fios Quantum Gateway. You can also extend your Wi-Fi range for an additional $99.99 (or $6.99/month) by purchasing a network extender.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Fast internet speed with fiber-optic cables
- Reliable uptime of 99.99%
- SLA credits in case of downtime
- Good customer support
Cons:
- Expensive plans
- Additional fees for installation, equipment and early termination of contract
- High latency
- Not available everywhere
2. AT&T
Powerful business ISP with efficient customer support services
While AT&T business internet is known for its rapid internet speed and affordable cost, the service provider is also backed by a 99.95 percent uptime guarantee. AT&T company agrees to keep your connection “up,” or online, for 99.95 percent of each calendar month, which equates to a maximum downtime of approximately 44 minutes per month.
To begin, AT&T excludes certain events from its “network availability” service level agreement, including scheduled network maintenance and force majeure (unavoidable or random) events.
With the exception of those circumstances, if AT&T does not meet the guarantee during any month, you will receive a one-day credit toward your monthly service fee. However, your business relies heavily on an always-on internet connection, this may not appear to be the best course of action.
AT&T alo has a high customer satisfaction score that includes reliability, cost and customer service. According to customer reviews, AT&T customer support team is very helpful and dependable. Customer support is available via live chats on the website and phone calls.
Besides, AT&T allows their clients to rent their equipment monthly or purchase them. When renting, you get guaranteed compatibility, no additional costs and tech support from AT&T. In contrast, buying the equipment includes specific hardware that fit your business and keeping them at the end of the contract.
Another plus is the monthly fee of $60/month for 25 Mbps for small businesses. You can enjoy the slower internet speed if your business does not have high internet demands. Moreover, AT&T has internet plans combined with Direct TV or phone packages to suit your needs.
Pricing
With AT&T, you can choose among three categories of internet connections, namely broadband internet, wireless broadband and dedicated internet. The internet plans are based on the speed and broadband available.
AT&T business fiber offers download speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (1 Gbps)—among the fastest available on the market. The fiber-optic business plans include symmetrical upload and download speeds. Choose a symmetrical fiber plan if you frequently use VoIP and video teleconferencing.
If you are still unsure about the plans, you can opt for the 30-day trial plan to test out the internet connection. If you are not satisfied, you can return the hardwares and receive a full refund. Moreover, while the fiber plans have a lower installation fee of $99, you cannot avoid the cost by installing the hardware yourself.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Plans start at $60/month
- Guaranteed uptime
- 30-day trial
- Speed up to 1Gbps
Cons:
- Expensive higher tier plans
- Inevitable installation fees
- Limited fiber plans availability
3. Viasat
Best satellite ISP for rural businesses in remote areas
Previously known as Exede, Viasat is one of two giant US-based satellite internet providers, competing with HughesNet for a share of rural businesses in need of high-speed internet. Viasat launched its most technologically advanced satellite system to date in 2018.
Viasat's newer, faster plans have been rolled out across the country since the satellite's launch, providing businesses with access to high-speed satellite internet service that comes close to matching the speeds of traditional internet technologies such as DSL and cable.
Viasat offers business internet speeds ranging from 35 Mbps to 100 Mbps. While the speeds cannot compete with the fast plans available through fiber-optic internet connections, they are the fastest available satellite speeds for businesses.
The service provider claims that their latest technology has dramatically accelerated page load times and minimized latency effects. However, the company acknowledges that even with their advancements, you can experience slower internet connections than you would with DSL or cable internet.
However, the major disadvantage is the high latency since it can significantly degrade the performance of virtual private network (VPN) services. Although a private network can be run over a satellite connection, Viasat does not recommend it as VPNs may be extremely slow and not function.
Unfortunately, Viasat has limited data across all of its monthly plans. When exceeding the data caps, you may pay up to $10/GB for broadband plans. However, only the unlimited plan does not have data caps.
To get an internet connection, Viasat will install equipment including a satellite dish (receiver) on your premises. The receiver will be connected to a modem which provides the internet connection.
However, the major drawback is that you cannot install the hardware yourself due to its complex process. Therefore, the cost of the installation fee is embedded in your monthly plan. Viasat states that the installation will be done within five business days after purchasing a plan.
In contrast, the equipment has a 90-day warranty for any defects. Yet, beyond the 90 days, an additional protection plan called EasyCare is required at $8.99/month. Since satellite connection requires more equipment, it is risky to go without the warranty.
Pricing
Viasat plans require a 24-month contract, which means you are essentially tied to the provider for two years. The fees for the business internet service provider vary according to your location.
As is the case with the majority of internet service providers, you will almost be charged an early termination fee (ETF) if you wish to terminate the contract early. Since residential internet customers pay $15 per month remaining on their contract, businesses can anticipate paying something similar.
Viasat Unlimited plans include “soft” data usage caps. If you reach that limit, your internet service will not be interrupted, but you will notice a slower connection.
Viasat has also rebranded its old plans to Metered Broadband plans. While the plans provide adequate download and upload speed, they have lower data usage limits. However, the metered broadband plans are cheaper and are available everywhere across the U.S.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Faster satellite speed
- Wide range of speeds and data limits
- No hard caps for data usage
- Unlimited plans
Cons:
- Expensive for higher-tier plans
- Data limits include daytime and after-hours data
- High latency
- Not as fast as fiber optic and DSL
4. Ooma Connect
Excellent 4G ISP with reliable internet connections
Connect is described by Ooma as a combination of fixed wireless internet and phone service that customers can use in one of two ways. To begin, it can be used to replace older, slower, and increasingly unreliable DSL and satellite connections still prevalent in remote and rural areas.
According to Ooma’s research, 22% of their small business clients are still using the DSL service. The aim of Ooma connect is to provide user-friendly and plug-and-play hardware to improve the internet connection.
Ooma built a 2×8 MIMO antenna into its LTE 460 Adapter to offer customers with the best possible throughput and reliability in remote areas. The Connect device is used as a hotspot for businesses without any overheating and connection issues.
Besides, with Connect you will not lose the primary internet connection with aging and wired problems like the DSL and Satellite connections. Connect also has a backup feature that enables your company to store its data on a cloud-based storage.
Ooma Connect has a Continuous voice feature that uses both connections, DSL and wireless plans, simultaneously when you are on a call. To prevent any interruptions during phone calls, Connect will run traffic between both DSL and wireless connections.
However, the fixed plan does not account for video conferences and VoIP calls since the 4G LTE data plan does not support it. Yet, with the new 5G innovation, Connect will be upgraded to adapt to the technology.
Pricing
Ooma Connect partnered with Sprint and T-Mobile networks for their 4G features. The device is available at $599.99 or can be rented at $30/month. Along with the device, the internet data plans start at $29.99/month for 10 GB.
If you are interested in the Continuous Voice, the feature comes at $59.98/month. Ooma Connect can also be a primary internet gateway with the 50 GB plan at $99.99/month or 125 GB plan at $199.99/month.
Connect has a higher tier plan that can include the features of Ooma Office VoIP service but you can only purchase Office separately. Unfortunately, there are no bundle advantages available yet.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Low Cost
- Portability
- Ensures connections for remote users
- Backup storage
- Uninterrupted phone calls
Cons:
- Needs continuous supply of electricity
- High prices
- No bundle advantages
5. Spectrum
Best business ISP for stellar TV and internet packages
Spectrum offers a variety of enticing internet bundles, some of which include cable television. Businesses that require entertainment for their customers while they wait, shop, or eat stand to benefit the most from these bundles.
However, Spectrum's solo cable internet plans are helpful for other business types. That's because the plans are affordable, come without data caps, and include a slew of enticing technology features.
Spectrum is a Charter Communications brand that has extended its broadband cable and other internet services across the U.S. since acquiring Time Warner Cable in 2016. Spectrum advertises a maximum upload speed of 35 Mbps.
However, download speeds are not impressive when compared to other competitors. Upload speeds are critical when it comes to VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications. Additionally, Spectrum has a low customer satisfaction rating among its clients.
Spectrum has a guarantee of 99.9% uptime for its internet plans. While the figure is decent, several other service providers offer uptime of up to 99.99%, like Verizon.
Another indicator of reliability is latency. Latency, also known as lag, is the time required for a packet of data to complete a round trip from one internet connection point to another. When streaming video or conducting video conferences, high latency—measured in milliseconds—is an especially noticeable issue.
In contrast, to other competitors, Spectrum does not offer any latency guarantees. If latency is a primary concern for your business, consider a company that guarantees latency, such as Verizon.
To make up for the lack of latency guarantee, Spectrum has a 24/7 customer support for all of its business customers. The support team is available via phone calls while the website has a knowledgeable database with articles and FAQs.
Pricing
Spectrum has a fiber-optic network through the US to provide lightning-speed plans for its clients. While the packages start at $49.99/month, the pricing details will depend on your location and their coverage map.
Spectrum is known for its bundles with Internet and TV services. Starting at $79.98/month, you obtain 200 Mbps internet with access to 50+ TV channels.
If you are not interested in contracts, Spectrum offers contract-free options that are available for businesses only. Besides, you can also try the 30-day trial to test the plans. The only non-refundable aspect is the $99 installation fee.
Fortunately, the service provider provides free services such as cloud backup for up to 100 GB, email services, internet security and free modem leasing for plans up to 300 Mbps. In contrast, private business WiFi and Static IP address have an additional fee.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Free services
- TV and internet bundles available
- 24/7 customer support
- Fast cable speeds of up to 940 Mbps
- Plans start at $49.99
- Contract-free options
- 30-day trial
Cons:
- Slow upload and download speed
- Poor customer satisfaction
- Installation fee is not refundable
- Fiber-optic is not available everywhere
- Additional cost for static IP address
6. Frontier
Robust business ISP with Best VoIP services
Frontier Communications offers internet services to small businesses in select states and ZIP codes, and if you qualify, there are several compelling reasons to consider it for your business. Frontier's premier VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) solution and Frontier AnyWare are powerful services for small businesses.
Frontier AnyWare is a highly customizable, cloud-based phone and communications system available at an affordable price while the VoIP plan allows you to call from your computer or phone without interruptions.
However, Frontier lags behind several competitors for its pure internet power, customer service, and availability. Nonetheless, the company's footprints are expanding, and there is an increase in customer interest in Frontier business internet.
With Frontier fiber-optic offerings, the packages include symmetric download and upload speeds. The fast connections are beneficial if your company requires a high level of online computing power and large-file uploading.
The combination of fast symmetric speeds and top-tier VoIP provides an impressive pairing of internet and communication services. However, the fastest package, FiberOptic 1G plan is at $239.99/month which is a steep price for small businesses.
Frontier targets businesses with fewer than 20 employees with its small-business products. If your company is greater than that, you will fall into the “medium-enterprise” category. The service provider has a three-year price guarantee that ensures the price remains constant.
Moreover, you can also access several bundles with broadband internet packages such as Max internet and phone. The phone call feature if you have frequent long-distance calls. Other bundles include TV channels to entertain your customers.
If your company revolves around communications, you can add the Frontier AnyWare VoIP service to any plans. You should note that the price of the bundles will vary according to your location.
Besides, Frontier has a 24/7 business-centered customer support to help for any emergency cases. While customer support is available 24/7, Frontier suffered from a low customer satisfaction score.
If you are interested in email support, Frontier provides email accounts with 1TB of mail storage for all plans. Paired with Frontier secure cloud backup and extra computer protection, your data is fully protected from cyber-attacks. However, the security features are paid add-on services.
In contrast, all plans also include 99.9% uptime reliability, meaning that the average downtime per month would be 43.8 minutes. Compared to other competitors, Frontier’s uptime is average but not the best compared to Verizon’s 99.99% uptime guarantee.
Pricing
Frontier offers a 36-month price guarantee for all its internet plans. Starting at $55.99/month, you can have access to fast fiber-optic connections. However, there are a few additional charges, including the early cancellation fees of the contract.
For early cancellation, you will have to pay for the months left on the contract and extra fees. Unfortunately, Frontier is not very clear on the exact amount of the additional charges.
In contrast, you can equip your business with advanced hardwares, such as a business-grade router for more security along with video systems, voice systems and wireless networks. In fact, you can buy the equipment for better remote access.
Customer Review
Pros:
- Decent uptime
- 24/7 customer service
- 36-month price guarantee
- Free email storage of 1TB
- Dedicated line connection
- Variety of bundles
Cons:
- Bundles are available in specific locations only
- High prices for premium tier plans
- Poor customer support
- No trial period or money-back guarantee
- No clear information on additional costs
7. Comcast
Best ISP for businesses with tight budgets
Comcast Business uses fiber-optic connections in certain areas of the U.S., which transmit light via glass or plastic threads rather than electromagnetic cables. The primary benefits of fiber are reduced signal loss and interference, as well as symmetric upload and download speeds.
Comcast is a common and stable high-speed internet service provider. However, the major drawback is the bad customer service reputation. Several customer reviews state that Comcast customer service is not helpful to tackle emergency situations.
Comcast has five business plans designed for small to medium businesses with ranging download speed of 25 Mbps to 1 Gbps. All plans include free professional installation of equipment which is a big advantage that most competitors do not offer.
To test out the internet services, you can choose the 30-day trial period before settling on one. Besides, you can also connect to Comcast WiFi Pro to create and manage the data of two categories of networks, namely employees and customers.
All plans come with Static IP addresses to give advanced functions such as running private web servers. However, the feature comes with an additional charge. The Business phone service with Voice Mobility is also offered with a $20 price tag.
If you are having problems with your WiFi or accounts, you can download the Comcast Business App. The mobile application, available for both iOS and Android users, can troubleshoot WiFi internet to identify any hiccups. .
Moreover, Comcast also offers several bundles with a two-year contract. The packages provide several combinations of TV channels, voice lines, and internet speed for up to 1Gbps.
Pricing
Comcast provides business deals targeted at small to medium companies. For micro-companies of 2 employees, Comcast provides 35 Mbps for light web browsing and email functions. The Starter Internet plan is not recommended for large file traffic.
The Business Internet 100 is targeted to companies with 10 employees who have high internet demands. The 100 Mbps speed can support cloud-based applications and website hosting for scalable businesses.
In contrast, the Business Internet 300 is a good choice for medium companies. The fast speed and bandwidth of the package provides video and audio streaming without any disturbances.
Customer Review
Pros:
- High speed and reliable internet
- 24/7 customer service
- Scalable plans for growing businesses
- 30-day trial
- Wide range of bundles
- Mobile App for troubleshooting
Cons:
- Bad customer support
- Additional prices for several services
- Available in certain states only
Types of Business Internet: Fibre, Cable, and More
Choosing the best type of Business Internet service can be tricky with the large variety of choices available. Do not panic! We have broken down each connection type along with its benefits and drawbacks.
1. Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
A DSL connection is a high-speed fixed wireline broadband Internet connection that transmits information along your business’s telephone lines. With the two-wire technology, you can enjoy uninterrupted broadband Internet and smooth phone service.
All office devices are connected to a DSL modem via a wired or wireless Local Area Networks (LAN). if your business uses light to moderate web browsing, file sharing, and cloud backups, then DSL is perfect for you.
Depending on your location and the nearest facility, your connection may be powerful enough to support audio streaming and video conferences. If you are interested in DSL connections, Verizon offers excellent DSL plans.
2. Cable Internet
An Internet cable uses pre-installed coaxial cables to deliver an internet speed ranging from 10 Mbps to 1Gps. Choosing a service provider that offers high speeds without bandwidth limits is ideal for a business.
You can upload or download files, have digital collaboration, and video conferences without any interference. Cable internet is suitable for most businesses and rivals with higher-end fiber internet.
To stand out from the competition, several providers offer cable internet bundles including TV and phone services. Spectrum is a reliable internet service provider with good cable connections.
3. Fiber Internet
Fiber internet is usually offered by most Business Internet Providers. With tremendous high speed and reliability of 1Gps or higher, your business transmits data as light along the thin glass fibers.
The rising popularity of fiber-optic internet promotes its availability across several regions. This type of internet is the fastest among internet types with competitive prices. Both AT&T and Verizon provide lightning-fast internet speed with reliable uptime.
4. Satellite Internet
By using satellite internet, you can access the internet anywhere. Satellite internet is a smart choice for remote or rural operating businesses. However, you should note that the speed of your internet connection will depend on your service provider and environmental conditions.
Trees, rain, snow, and sunspots can cause interference with satellite signals which could lead to downtime and slower speeds. Moreover, satellite internet is mostly used by residential clients rather than businesses. Viasat offers good satellite internet connections at affordable prices.
5. Shared Networks And Dedicated Networks
Shared network internet is usually chosen by small businesses who share the bandwidth with a common network connection. Since the bandwidth is shared among several users, the speed will fluctuate depending on users’ connection load.
In contrast, dedicated networks have excellent performance and fast bandwidth speeds. Dedicate Networks often come with a Service Level Agreement (SLA) to ensure that your bandwidth speed occurs at a fixed speed. With a higher uptime, larger enterprises often choose dedicated networks.
How To Choose The Best Business Internet Service Provider
There are several factors that should be considered when you choose the ideal Internet Service Provider (ISP) for your business. Keep reading to understand the different aspects when choosing an ISP.
1. Speed
Speed is one of the primary features to look for in your internet package. To determine your business’s ideal speed, consider the number of your employees and the purpose of using the internet.
Ideally, fiber internet would be perfect for a business with its unflinching internet connection and download speed compared to cable and DSL internet. Note that as the speed increases, the cost will also rise proportionally.
For small businesses of up to 10 employees, a speed of 100 Mbps will work well for you. However, for larger enterprises, you can go up to 1 Gbps plans or more. Verizon and AT&T are famously known for their fast fiber-optic internet connections.
2. Customer Service
Your service provider must have good around-the-clock customer service. Check out customer reviews to get a deeper insight into the provider’s support. The internet may be fickle and time down may signify money lost for various businesses.
Your ISP must also have a phone or chat assistance that is not automated to tackle your specific problems. From our list, Verizon has the most efficient customer service according to customer reviews.
3. Technician Available
In case of an emergency, your ISP may provide a technician that will come to your facility to fix your internet connection. Some internet service providers even offer next-day technician assistance for rapid solutions.
However, technician assistance may come at a price, so read the fine print carefully. Frontier has technician assistance for both installation and reparation of internet equipment.
4. Average Annual Downtime
Various ISPs claim that they offer near-perfect uptime of approximately 99%. However, in case of downtime, a Service Level Agreement (SLA) would be beneficial for your business.
The SLA ensures that the ISP will compensate for any downtime in the form of credits, discounts, or early contract termination. From our list, Verizon has an impressive uptime of 99.99% guarantee.
5. Data Caps
Some internet providers will impose bandwidth limits or data caps and will charge a higher rate if your business exceeds the limit. While data caps are more common among residential packages, some cable, fiber, and DSL business plans may also include data caps. Both Comcast and Viasat provide unlimited data packages at higher-paid plans.
6. Contract Length
Depending on your preferences, choose a contract length that suits your business. The average contract length is two years, but you can also choose shorter or longer terms.
It is crucial that you look out for early termination fees which are usually steep if ever you choose to cancel the contract early. Some IPS also provide free trials on all their packages to try out their services. AT&T, Spectrum and Comcast provide 30-day free trials to test out their features.
7. Fine Print
Most ISPs include TOS (Terms Of Service), SLA (Service Level Agreement), and acceptable use policies in their fine prints. Those rules determine how you can use the ISP services, bandwidth limits, or limits. By carefully reading and understanding the policies, you will have a better understanding of whether the plan is good for your business or not.
8. Net Neutrality
Net neutrality is the basic policy to give all online data equal connections and treatment. Information of the clients of service providers should flow freely and without blocking data transmissions.
All information should not be censored but have equal access, that even the government cannot touch. The policy prevents any ISP to prioritize certain traffics over others or block traffic from specific tiers while charging their clients across all tier plans. This is an important area to look at to prevent any future mishaps.
9. Bundles
To stand out from competitors, many ISPs provide packages that include internet services along with voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP), TV, or phone service. VoIP is especially useful if your business involves voice communications or multimedia media sessions.
Your business can save a few dollars when choosing a package that includes all the services needed. For on-premise customer businesses, a TV deal is worth considering since it can be a distraction for waiting clients.
10. Static IP Address
IP (Internet Protocol) addresses are the identities of computers over the internet. Computers can identify and communicate with each other through IP addresses. There are two types of IP addresses, dynamic and static.
While dynamic IP addresses are temporary and commonly used for residential clients, static addresses are permanent and designed for businesses. Static IP addresses come at a higher price but are essential if your business has hosting servers, virtual private networks (VPNs), or need more stability and security. Spectrum and Comcast provide static IP addresses at additional prices.
11. Email services
Your business could greatly benefit from the email services that ISPs offer. For a more professional look, you can have email addresses that include your business’s name instead of generic Gmail accounts (example: you@businessdomainname.com).
ISPs provide a fixed monthly price for individual emails or custom domain names to reflect your business website. Spectrum, Frontier and Comcast provide email storage embedded in their monthly plans.
12. VPN
A VPN or virtual private network encrypts your connection for more security on your data. Only your computer and VPN server may decode your connection and is thus referred to as a tunnel.
If security is a concern, all your information is secured in the private network for your business. A VPN also protects your business information from external hackers and cyber attacks. Yet, not all ISPs offer VPN services. You may then use independent VPNs, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
13. Cloud Share
With cloud share, your business does not need space-hogging drives and hard copies. Instead, all your information can be stored off-site, in the cloud that allows users to access the same file simultaneously.
Besides, cloud share also supports subscribed software and enables remote users to access all data needed while being away from the office. This feature is beneficial for ‘work at home’ employees during the pandemic. However, you should consider the additional fees that come with cloud share and may further increase when more storage is needed.
14. Equipment
ISPs will provide hardware equipment such as modems, cables, and routers depending on your internet connection. Some service providers may rent out the equipment with you or you can purchase them upfront. For long-term contracts, we recommend that you buy the equipment since rental fees can easily add up to a higher price tag.
15. Security and Web Hosting
To protect your data, ISP may provide antiviruses, anti-spyware, or anti-malware to protect your business from any cyber-attacks. Some ISPs also offer backup service protection that ensures your data is not lost in case of a system crash.
Business Internet Service Provider FAQ
Now that you understood the different features and aspects of choosing a business internet service provider, you may still have some pertinent questions that need answers. Below you will find the most frequent questions and answers regarding ISPs. Let’s dive in!
Having a good bandwidth ensures that your internet connection does not slow down when users are using the internet at the same time. To know how much bandwidth is needed, you first consider external factors that will potentially affect the speed of your connection.
The number of your employees is a good estimate of how many users will be connected to the internet simultaneously. Besides, your devices may also limit your internet speed, especially when using older wireless equipment.
For example, your internet connection is at 250 Mbps but your computer only supports 100 Mbps. Therefore, taking into account all the external factors, a minimum bandwidth of 150 Mbps would be ideal for a starting small business. For growing businesses, 500 Mbps will meet the higher internet demands of the company.
Your internet speed will depend on the function of your business over the internet and the number of your employees using the same network. For one or two users, 5 Mbps is useful for light browsing, email, and research.
In contrast, if you are downloading large files, require business communication and basic Wi-Fi, then 25 Mbps is ideal for your business. You should note that 25 Mbps supports up to 5 users at a time.
eCommerce businesses will need a minimum of 75 Mbps for numerous POS transactions, file sharing, or video streaming. However, if your eCommerce has more than 10 users, 75 Mbps may not be enough for you.
150 Mbps is an ideal bandwidth that covers all the necessary functions for a small business. The 150 Mbps bandwidth supports 20 users and offers data backups, cloud computing, or video conferencing.
For growing businesses, a bandwidth of 250 Mbps to 1Gbps will suit the advanced and higher internet demands of the company. The bandwidths provide multiple server hosting, zero interruptions, and constant cloud-based computing.
Business Internet speeds are generally faster than residential internet. For easier uploading, downloading, video calls, and POS, business internet service providers offer packages ranging from 100 Mbps to 1Gbps.
Besides, ISPs prioritize the speed of their business clients over residential users. Therefore, the contention ratio, the number of premises sharing the same broadband in your area, will be in your favor.
With dedicated networks, your business may even have its own broadband network that is not shared with other clients, for a faster and uninterrupted internet connection. With the dedicated lines, the speed can even go above 1Gbps for high-volume organizations.
A business ISP stands for business Internet Service Provider. Business ISPs connect companies to faster and higher-tier internet packages for effective communications between the company and clients.
Business ISPs also provide more secure broadband with antivirus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware features to shield your connection against any cyber-attacks. Business packages also contain Virtual Private Networks (VPN) that are password protected and only accessible to your employees.
The bundles also include business email accounts with business domain names including storage for each user. You can also benefit from remote access that is not available for residential clients.
Remote access is a useful feature for employees working from home as they have access to all data on the shared network. Since many businesses have eCommerce components with their regular operations, business ISPs provide up to 20 GB of Web space for their website. Some ISPs include the storage free of charge in their packages or provide the service at additional charges.
Which Small Business Internet Service Provider is Right for You?
You have reached the end of our guide on Business ISP. Hopefully, you were able to gain a deeper understanding of the services and drawbacks of ISP along with the different features to look for.
For eCommerce businesses, we recommend Verizon and AT&T business plans for their fast fiber optic connections. With their reliable uptime guarantee, you are assured that your website will always be on the internet 24/7.
If you have a starting business who does not have high internet demands, Comcast starter plan is ideal for you. With its affordable price and basic internet support, the plan will cover all your basic needs.
For businesses with clientele waiting times, Spectrum provides bundles with TV services including 50+ channels.
Rural small businesses may not have access to fiber and DSL connections. Viasat is the ideal solution for you as you can connect to satellites for remote access. Besides, Ooma Connect can also boost your connection for more reliable internet.