How Much Speed Do We Need?

Madison Communications hears this question frequently from our business customers, and there’s no single right answer. For some small businesses, a download speed as fast as 100 Mbps may work fine. Larger businesses with many devices and data-intensive applications may need a download speed as fast as 1 GIG (1,000 Mbps) for optimal performance (multi-gig internet speeds coming soon!).

How many devices are using your internet service?

Add up all the desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, Point of Sale (POS) terminals, security systems, and other internet connected devices at your business location. Remember to also include devices used by visitors and customers on your Wi-Fi network, if applicable. The more devices you have, the more speed you need.

How do your employees use the internet?

If your employees’ online activities consist mainly of email, web browsing, and POS terminals, then a moderate internet speed may suffice. However, if you have many employees simultaneously streaming HD video, engaging in video conferences, uploading and downloading large files, and using cloud-based applications and storage, then your business may be a candidate for upper-level speeds.

What are your performance requirements?

Think about the impact to your business if your internet service were to slow down from heavy use on insufficient bandwidth. Would your employees be able to do their jobs? Would customer service be adversely affected? It’s important to equip your business with plenty of internet speed for your current usage and upgrade your plan as your needs grow.

If you want to discuss an internet speed upgrade for your business, call Madison Communications at 1-800-422-4848.