The Internet is becoming a necessity in daily life and more so, in business. Whether you use it for your online business, sending and receiving e-mails or holding conferences, the Internet service provider you choose can make a world of difference to your business.
Choose the wrong one and you'll spend your time worrying about internet instead of running your business. Here are a few factors you need to consider when choosing an ISP.
Coverage
Some internet service providers only cover certain areas and not others. How good is their connection in your area? Find out from other businesses in your locality.
Sometimes, their coverage could be limited to only certain types of connections. They may have a broadband connection but not fiber optic. Make sure your service provider is able to provide the service you need in your area.
If you are highly dependent on the internet, you need to go for a connection that has minimal downtime. Fiber optic or ethernet connections will give you greater reliability.
Cost
Money matters. After all, that's why you're in business. You don't want to pay more than you should for Internet services.
Compare prices charged by different service providers for the same product. What perks do they offer?
Customer Service & Technical Support
How is the ISPs customer service? How long do they take to respond to issues? How efficient is their technical support in the field?
Some ISPs will only respond during working hours or within stipulated timelines. Does this agree with your schedule? If your business is heavily reliant on the internet or if you work after hours, you want an ISP that offers around the clock technical support and quick response.
Equipment
What is the quality of internet equipment used? Check out their modems and routers. Do they look sturdy or rather fragile? More than that, are they reliable?
Speed & Reliability
Slow or unreliable internet is annoying, and may even harm your business. When it comes to speed, of course, there's the official speed and then there's the actual speed on the ground.
Find out what people are saying about your prospective choice. Talk to businesses in your building that are using that ISP.
Is the ISP committed to reliability? Let this commitment be put in writing and in tangible terms such as reimbursement in case of a lengthy downtime.
Your choice of Internet service provider can be a blessing or a curse to your business. Before you settle on one, consider the ISP's coverage, reliability, speed, technical support, equipment, and cost. To learn more, contact a company that specializes in IT support near you.
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