Broadband generally refers to any internet connection that is faster and newer than the relatively obsolete dial-up connections. Most modern households and businesses can access a broadband service via wireline (a complex network of cables) or wireless broadband.
Choosing the best internet connection for your business may seem like a chore given the sheer number of options available today. Speed, setup and subscription cost, bandwidth and reliability are all factors that shape our attitudes towards different types of internet connection. That said, here are the major types of internet connections available for your business.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
Supplied by telecom companies, DSL is a low-tech yet surprisingly high-speed internet connection. DSL is very widespread as it is delivered through traditional copper telephone lines. Businesses connect to DSL services via a modem that other office devices can connect to wirelessly or via LAN (wired local area networks)
DSL is a suitable option for businesses that perform light to moderate web browsing and file sharing. Its maximum download and upload speeds of 15Mbps and 1Mbps, respectively, are enough to support audio streaming, video conferencing, cloud backups and occasional downloads.
Fiber
Fiber-optic internet is the new kid on the block with insanely high bandwidth potential, vastly superior speeds and correspondingly high prices. If you're interested in 1 gig internet, fiber-optic is the way to go. Fiber connections are very reliable, offering download and upload speeds upwards of 35Mbps and 1Gbps thanks to thin glass fibers that transmit data in the form of infrared light pulses.
Businesses of all sizes can confidently rely on fiber-optic internet for their daily activities; however, it may be overkill for small businesses. With plenty of fiber internet providers, you can easily find the right solution to fit your needs. Fiber-optic internet is an excellent pick for your business if you require heavy web browsing, constant file sharing, server hosting and HD streaming.
Cable Internet
Similar to cable TV, cable companies provide cable internet via pre-installed coaxial cables or, more recently, HFC (hybrid-fiber coaxial) connections. Your business can access cable broadband using a modem at speeds ranging between 10 Mbps-1Gbps.
Cable internet is very stable and ideal for businesses that require moderate web browsing, file sharing, digital collaboration and video communication. Although not as fast as fiber, cable connections can offer great value for money since most providers bundle them with TV and phone services.
Fixed Wireless
Unlike other popular connections like DSL and cable, fixed wireless internet is delivered wirelessly through radio waves transmitted by internet towers. Fixed wireless internet typically has no caps, and users can enjoy speeds similar, if not faster, than wired broadband services. For instance, business internet plans from NodeOne – one of the fastest fixed wireless internet providers in Perth and WA – offer speeds of up to 150Mbps.
However, the biggest advantage of fixed wireless internet is its hassle-free setup. Businesses can access the internet from the remotest of areas since no physical cables are required during installation. All your business needs is an unobstructed line of sight to the nearest fixed wireless tower.
Satellite
Satellite internet is arguably the future of the internet. It requires a dish to capture data transmitted from orbiting space stations in the form of radio frequencies. Satellite internet is currently slower than other mainstream options since the gap between earth and space stations slows down the data transfer rate.
Final Thoughts
Internet connections are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The best internet connection for your business will depend on your unique demands and budget. Choose a connection type that provides the right balance of reliability, speed and cost.
