Finding broadband that truly suits your business can feel like a bit of a minefield. There are plenty of deals out there, all promising great speeds and low prices, but how do you know which one’s actually right for you?
The good news is, it doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you know what to look for, it’s really just a matter of matching the right service to the way your business works.
Here are three down-to-earth tips to help you make the right call.
Think about how your business uses the internet
Before you get into comparing packages, it’s worth taking a moment to look at how your team actually uses the internet during a normal day. Are people mostly checking emails and browsing the web, or do they regularly upload files, hold video meetings, and use cloud-based tools?
If it’s just a handful of people doing light tasks, you probably don’t need anything fancy. But if your business relies heavily on digital tools, or if you’ve got several people working online at the same time, you’ll want something with a bit more power behind it. It’s also smart to think ahead, if you’re planning to expand in the near future, it might be worth choosing a broadband option that can grow with you, rather than having to change contracts later on.
Check what’s available locally
The next step is seeing what types of broadband you can actually get where your business is based. Not every type is available in every location, especially if you’re outside a big town or city.
Fibre broadband is usually the go-to for most businesses, as it offers decent speed and reliability. But there’s more than one kind. Standard fibre, often called FTTC (fibre to the cabinet), is the most common and works well for general use. Full fibre (or FTTP – fibre to the premises) is faster and more stable, and if your business depends on strong connectivity throughout the day, it’s worth considering.
For companies that can’t afford slow speeds or downtime, think design studios, tech firms, or large teams, a leased line might be the best route. It gives you a dedicated connection with matching upload and download speeds, but it comes at a higher cost, so it’s really only worth it if your day-to-day work demands that level of reliability.
Most broadband providers let you check coverage based on your postcode, so it’s quick and easy to find out what’s on offer where you are. So it’s a good idea to do a bit of research and compare business broadband prices before deciding.
Don’t just focus on the monthly cost
Price matters, of course, but the cheapest deal isn’t always the best value in the long run. A low monthly rate might come with extra charges, slower speeds, or less reliable service. So it’s worth digging a little deeper before signing anything.
Have a look at the contract length and what’s included in the package. Is installation free? Are there penalties if you leave early? How quickly do they promise to fix any issues? Service Level Agreements (SLAs) can tell you a lot about how a provider treats its business customers.
Support is another big one. Some providers only offer help during office hours, while others have 24/7 customer service, which can be a lifesaver if you run into problems outside the usual 9 to 5.
Finally, take a few minutes to check what other businesses have said. Reviews or testimonials often give a clearer picture of what to expect than a sales page ever could.
In the end, the best broadband is the one that fits your business, not just today, but as it grows. Take a little time to weigh up what really matters, and you’ll find a service that keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes.
