Business broadband comparison

Thursday 7 July, 2011

By Garnet Roach - garnet@consumerchoices.co.uk

Comparing business broadband providers online is the best way to get a deal that’s right for your company.

Using a free price comparison service gives you all the information you need in one place, allowing you to make an informed decision and then take advantage of the best deals online.

Information at your fingertips

It’s never been easier to find the right broadband deal; whether you're looking for a standalone business broadband package or an all-in-one internet and phone deal to help you cut costs even more.

But comparing deals is just the first step. Although it’s easy to let cheap business broadband deals tempt you into signing a long contract, you need to make sure you'll get a service that works for your company - even if that means paying out a little bit more each month.

Do your research and ask around - what are other similar businesses looking for from their broadband provider?

It can also help to speak to an expert direct before you commit. They will be able to recommend a package based on your business size, the number of employees you have and how you use the internet - as well as advising you on how you can tailor your deal to suit your needs.

Choosing the right business broadband package

There are a number of different factors you need to take into account to make sure you find the right deal.

• Broadband speed - You can now choose from a wide range of download speeds, from 2Mb symmetrical lines all the way up to 40Mb and more if you choose a fibre optic broadband package. But before you go for the fastest, most expensive deal on the market, ask yourself whether you really need it
• Download allowance - Although it’s usually called a “download allowance”, all the data that you download and upload counts towards your data limit. A business broadband provider will appreciate that you might need a higher allowance than a home broadband customer
• Contract length - Most business broadband packages come with a 12, 18 or 24-month contract - so make sure you're completely happy with your deal before you commit.

Added extras

As well as the standard features of any business broadband package, providers offer a host of added extras that you can use to enhance your service. These include everything from a static IP address that allows you to connect remotely to your office PC, to priority network access that will help your data travel faster online.

Other features include:

• Lower contention ratios - Domestic packages come with a 50:1 contention ratio so you'll be sharing your line with 49 other people at the same time. But some business packages cut this to 20:1 or even offer a dedicated line for the fastest, most reliable service
• Priority customer service - Any issues will be dealt with as a priority
• Flexible contracts - Some providers offer rolling one-month contracts, though you make be charged an extra connection or monthly fee for a flexible service
• Free webspace and email addresses - Make your business look more professional
• Business-grade security - Protect your company from viruses, trojans and hackers while keeping spam to a minimum.

The benefits of comparing broadband deals

When you start comparing deals, you will discover that business broadband does not have to be expensive; packages start at around £10 a month excluding VAT and after initial set-up costs.

However, you do need to think about more than just price. The package you choose will also depend on the size and nature of your company and what you need from your broadband.

Even if you're already signed up to a business broadband package and are out of your contract, you'll be able to save hundreds of pounds by switching supplier.