For more than a week, around half a million cable internet customers have experienced intermittent or total service disruptions as Insight Communications overhauls its network. What was supposed to be a single-night transition has become a prolonged ordeal for users in Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana. The issues extend beyond internet connectivity for computers and routers; contacting technical support has been impossible due to overwhelmed phone lines. This is particularly problematic for VoIP users who rely on broadband for phone service.

Tech-savvy individuals understand that unforeseen problems often arise during planned installations and upgrades. Regrettably, Insight’s situation has escalated into a major crisis. Customer frustration is mounting as the company struggles to provide a clear timeline for full service restoration. While the outage inconveniences students, gamers, downloaders, and casual internet users, it presents a potential financial catastrophe for businesses reliant on the supposedly “always-on” connection.

You might assume your monthly internet fee guarantees constant connectivity, but that’s often not the case. DSL and cable internet are typically categorized as “information services” rather than regulated telecommunications services. These “best effort” services mean the company will strive to provide acceptable service but offer no guarantees regarding bandwidth consistency or availability.

This lack of guarantee means installation and continuous service aren’t assured. Short outages, particularly during late-night/early-morning hours, are common for maintenance. Additional outages might result from line disruptions, equipment malfunctions, or issues at the provider’s end. While the company will attempt to address outages promptly, their “best effort” might seem inadequate during widespread service disruptions.

News reports highlight the plight of home-based and small business owners, including travel agents, tech professionals, consultants, and sales representatives, facing substantial financial losses. While some rely on dial-up or mobile hotspots as temporary alternatives, many are at a standstill, watching their income dwindle while awaiting service restoration.

For those whose income depends on a fast internet connection, this situation is both predictable and avoidable. Relying on a data service without a service level agreement (SLA) is inherently risky. While it’s easy to feel secure during periods of minimal issues, it’s crucial to consider the potential cost of downtime. Upgrading to a professional-grade service becomes essential when your business’s financial well-being hinges on a stable connection.

Dedicated internet, often referred to as T1, provides a reliable solution. Delivered via telephone cable, it’s available wherever standard phone service exists. This regulated telecommunications service includes an SLA outlining remedies for outages. While not guaranteeing uninterrupted service, T1 lines are typically restored swiftly, minimizing downtime.

Unlike shared DSL and cable services, dedicated internet ensures consistent bandwidth solely for your use. While a T1’s speed might seem modest compared to consumer-grade options, its dedicated nature guarantees consistent performance. Additionally, multiple T1 lines can be combined for increased bandwidth as your business expands.

Contrary to common assumptions, dedicated internet is surprisingly affordable. While prices vary by location, a typical T1 connection costs around $500 per month. Larger cities often have lower prices, while remote areas might experience higher costs. Fractional T1 lines offer a less expensive option for businesses with lower bandwidth requirements. Consider the potential financial impact of even a single day without internet access. A seemingly inexpensive residential connection could end up costing more in lost revenue than a reliable T1 line.

Don’t fall victim to the allure of cheap broadband. Contact us for a quick quote on dedicated internet or integrated internet and phone services. Complete the short form on our website, and a consultant will be in touch to discuss available services and installation timelines. You can also reach us via our toll-free number.