In an increasingly internet-dependent world, businesses are now more than ever tasked with finding solutions that meet customer as well as in-house needs. Most companies have discovered meeting these needs is, in itself, not the issue. The challenge arises from needing to meet demands faster than the competition. In order to do this, businesses are forced to evaluate their internet services and how these services directly impact business capabilities, efficiency, deliverables, and revenue.

For those outside the tech realm, tech terminology can seem quite intimidating. This post is not intended to add to that confusion. Instead, we’re going to clearly break down all things Business Class Internet and why your business is at a disadvantage without it.

Is Business Class Internet Really Necessary for my Business? 

The short answer to this question is that it’s really up to your business. However, there’s a reason (well, multiple reasons) most businesses utilize Business Class Internet. It’s even in the name after all! Business Class Internet, and other high level internet types, make all the difference in performance.

Consider the following advantages of Business Class Internet on business performance:

• Increased reliability and accountability
• Can be tailored to fit business needs and objectives
• A variety of Internet Service Providers offer Business Class Internet, which means your business has options
• Reduced frustration and increased employee morale in having a faster internet option
• Higher speeds and synchronous, or symmetrical, speeds

Now, with the above reasons in mind, you tell me if you think Business Class Internet is worth it.

Cost

This is usually the deciding factor for businesses thinking about Business Class Internet, and it’s understandable. As good as something can sound in theory, if the price isn’t right then the discussion is over. That brings us to the big question: what is the cost of Business Class Internet?

Well, there is no answer, or not a single one anyway. This is because Business Class Internet has average speeds anywhere from 50Mbps to 1GB and can range from $75/mo to $1,000+. This is due to the fact that there is no universal standard for Business Class Internet. It’s not a one size fits all solution because every business has unique needs.

However, one of the advantages of working with Simplified Communications, is that, as an independent broker, we can put together an ideal package, utilizing the best services for the best prices available.

For existing customers that really need to watch the spending, and you’ve been in your contract for 12-18 months, we may be able to reduce your costs. 

Not All Internet is Created Equal

To determine the best internet for your business, it’s important to understand the totem pole of internet types. Residential/standard internet comes in at the bottom, with the lowest cost but restricted upload speeds and slow, best-effort service agreements that might make you want to pull your hair out.

​Business Class Internet is a huge step above residential with its ability to offer higher speeds and synchronous speeds for upload and downloads. Business Class Internet also often comes with a Static Internet Protocol (IP) address and improved service level agreements for quicker service, which means any internet problems that occur can be addressed swiftly.

Then there is Enterprise Class Internet sitting atop of the totem pole. This is the internet solution for businesses who rely heavily on the internet. Enterprise Class Internet includes dedicated service, quality level service agreements offering same-day repair, and project management.

Trying to decide between Business Class and Enterprise Class Internet? Know that dual connectivity is an option as well. This is a combination of Business Class and Enterprise Class Internet. Depending on the needs of your company, this might be the best fit for you! Reach out to our team to find out which service is best for your current trajectory and growth in your business!

Business Class Internet Reliability

When signing up for Business Class Internet, you will also sign a service level agreement that lays out the level of uptime and service you will receive. This is important because technology is not without issues. But having quick solutions and nearby customer service representatives goes a long way in addressing issues the same day and ensuring your Business Class Internet is functioning properly again in no time. Additionally, you will receive dedicated account managers and business specialists who monitor your network for both performance and security.

Service level agreements will vary from carrier to carrier, but you are typically offered five minimum guarantees:

1. Dedicated bandwidth
2. Uptime: percentage of the time your internet will be up and running
3. Jitter: the fluctuation of latency over time
4. Latency: time it takes for a packet to arrive at its destination
5. Mean time to repair

Another reason why Business Class Internet is regarded for its reliability is because it provides customers with a Static IP address. Your IP address is your network’s online address. A Static IP address is permanent, in contrast to a dynamic IP address that changes regularly. Most businesses request a Static IP because it makes their network both more secure and more reliable. This is important especially if you have employees working across various locations or you use a virtual private network (VPN).

Know Your Provider Options

Business Class Internet is offered by most of the top Internet Service Providers such as:

• Comcast 
• Spectrum 
• Lumen 
• Verizon 
• AT&T

Unsure of which is for you? Simplified Communications usually recommends utilizing the Business Class Internet option from your preferred Internet Service Provider, but we’d be happy to share our expert advice if you’d like to learn more.

All the above information is meant to serve as a comprehensive guide for anyone wishing to learn more about Business Class Internet or businesses considering the transition to Business Class Internet.

​We understand this can seem like an intimidating process to some, but know that our Simplified Team is here to walk you through it. With us by your side, we’ll get you through all things Business Class Internet and, by doing so, get you an internet service that can finally keep up with you!