By: John Shepler
Faster internet speeds are generally preferred. While a select few enjoy seamless connectivity due to high bandwidth and low latency, most users remain limited by affordability and availability. However, there’s no need to settle for restricted internet speed without exploring the available options.
The Internet Landscape Has Evolved
One factor hindering faster internet adoption is complacency with existing providers. We might be content with a service chosen years ago, unaware of recent advancements. What was once considered cutting-edge is now outdated in the rapidly evolving world of internet technology.
Outdated Options: T1 and DSL
T1 lines and DSL, once at the forefront, have largely become obsolete. While T1 lines persist in areas with limited alternatives, DSL has become outdated. Although T1 lines are now more affordable and can be combined for greater bandwidth, superior alternatives are available for most users.
Cable Business Broadband: A Popular Choice
Currently, business cable internet is the favored entry-level broadband service, outperforming T1 lines in speed and affordability. However, availability is limited outside metropolitan areas. The DOCSIS standard, continually upgraded, allows for speeds of 100 Mbps, with the latest iteration (DOCSIS 3.1) enabling up to 10 Gbps.
It’s worth noting that these speeds typically apply to downloads, with upload speeds significantly slower. This discrepancy is generally acceptable for standard internet usage but can be limiting for tasks involving large file uploads. Additionally, cable broadband shares bandwidth among users on the same cable, unlike dedicated bandwidth options.
Fiber Optic Ethernet: The Gold Standard
For those seeking future-proof, ultra-reliable, high-speed internet with vast dedicated bandwidth and minimal latency, fiber optic connections are ideal. Ethernet over Fiber (EoF) is rapidly replacing expensive legacy SONET fiber services.
Carrier Ethernet, seamlessly integrating with local area networks, offers adaptable bandwidth ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps, with potential for 100 Gbps in specific locations. This cost-effective solution allows users to start with their current bandwidth needs and effortlessly upgrade as required, often without hardware modifications.
High-Speed Wireless Solutions
Despite being the superior choice, fiber optic internet isn’t universally accessible, especially in rural areas. While feasible for buildings near existing fiber lines, construction costs can be prohibitive for others.
Wireless internet offers a viable alternative when cable and fiber connections are not feasible. Two options stand out: fixed point business internet, utilizing a small antenna to capture signals from nearby towers, and two-way business satellite internet, employing a small dish aimed at satellites.
Fixed Point Wireless
Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) offer fixed point wireless internet, akin to cable broadband without physical cables. Users can enjoy speeds up to 50/5 Mbps with shared bandwidth at an affordable monthly rate and no data limits. Enterprise-grade options provide dedicated, symmetrical bandwidth comparable to Ethernet Fiber, ranging from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with low latency suitable for voice and video applications. Similar to other services, a strong WISP signal is essential for optimal performance.
Satellite Wireless
Broadband business satellite internet offers near-universal coverage. Satellites strategically positioned in orbit provide extensive coverage, reaching even remote areas and maritime vessels. While traditionally employed by businesses with limited connectivity needs, newer satellite technology rivals wired and fiber options. Current offerings provide speeds around 15 Mbps, with potential for up to 100 Mbps in the near future. However, due to the vast distances involved, latency remains around half a second, which may impact the performance of time-sensitive applications like voice, video, and cloud services.
The availability of diverse internet connectivity solutions for businesses of all sizes is remarkable. Whether you represent a large corporation, a mid-sized company, or a small enterprise, exploring the range of high-speed broadband internet services at your location is highly recommended.
