Whatever sector you are in, your business will use the internet. Whether it is for daily operations, e-commerce, marketing, customer service, staff communication, research, or cloud storage, without an internet connection everything grinds to a halt.
Choosing the right type of internet and router set-up can make the difference between a business running smoothly and constantly firefighting and playing catch-up.
According to the UK Business Data Survey 2026, 86 per cent of businesses use digitised data every day for standard operating tasks. However, even the smallest of businesses and sole traders will use the internet even if it is only via mobile data for taking card payments.
Broadband internet is an essential service for a business, combined with a reliable connection and router. But how do you know what your business needs?
What do businesses use the internet for?
While some businesses are entirely internet-based, others use it as a tool for certain processes. Knowing how you use it in your organisation will determine the type of connection you will need.
- Communication – email, chat, meetings and video calls and file sharing
- Sales and marketing – online selling, social media, advertising, search engine marketing and website updates
- Money – card payments, online banking, payroll and accounting
- Data processing, storage and research
How is business broadband different from domestic connections?
Consumer broadband is typically subject to less heavy use than a business broadband connection; however, the volume of data that a connection can handle is not the only difference.
Because business broadband is business critical, packages often come with additional services and benefits. Among them are:
Service Level Agreements
These outline the maximum wait times for repairs and fixes, and guarantees on data speeds and uptime. If service level agreements are not met within a timeframe, then a complaint can be made, and a potential refund or credit can be requested.
Static IP addresses
A static IP is a permanent address for your connection. It can allow you to run servers, access your work computer remotely and provide better security options. Since it does not change, the IP allows for a more stable VoIP and VPN use without the signal dropping out.
Additional client support
When there is a problem with the internet, you need to know that there is someone you can contact for immediate help to get your business moving again. Priority support for business clients usually comes as standard with a business broadband package.
Business customers are also protected by the Telecoms Consumer Charter in terms of pricing and bills, and protected from fraud by the Telecoms Fraud Charter.
Symmetric connections
Unlike consumer connections which lean toward faster download speeds, a business package will often have equally fast upload and download speeds. This allows you to upload documents, images and video much quicker.
How much does a business internet connection cost?
Business internet connections can vary in price depending on how large the organisation is and how heavy the usage is.
For small businesses, such as cafes, independent shops and restaurants, or sole traders, who use the connection for emails and card payments, monthly costs could start at £25 excluding VAT.
For small to medium-sized businesses with more employees and the need for video calls, cloud storage and VoIP, estimates start at £50 per month.
For much larger organisations who need dedicated lines (dedicated internet access), the price rises. The need for high speeds, server hosting and large volumes of data used by upward of 50 employees means the package would need to be bespoke to the organisation.
The connection type will also have an impact on the pricing. If your business is in a remote or rural location, a wireless connection may be your only option, whereas in a developed urban area fibre optic infrastructure is more likely to be available.
What other factors should be considered for business broadband?
Signing a new contract for an internet package that is fit for purpose and within budget is just one step in the process. Another factor to consider is how the router, WiFi extensions and network access are set up for your organisation.
While some organisations may have the technical expertise in-house, many businesses do not. A badly installed system is far more likely to fail, and cost you customers in the process.
To prevent that scenario, expert knowledge is needed to get your organisation online with your new connection. A dedicated business IT support service can help efficiently calibrate the system with minimal disruption and even set up VoIP for your business.
Before you sign up for a new business broadband package or if you need assistance with routers, talk to Sinorrah about your usage and needs. We can help you come up with a solution that ensures you are always connected.