Selecting the appropriate internet speed for business is crucial for optimizing business operations and it’s not always fastest is the best. Here’s are five top tips to help you determine the ideal internet speed.
-
Understand Internet Speed
Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps), indicates the rate at which data is downloaded or uploaded. The higher the speed, the faster data can be transferred.
Modern day cloud computing also makes the uploads speed of your internet as important as the download.
Internet speed for business
-
Assess Your Business Activities
Think about the different business activities that require varying speeds. How do you connect to your business-critical applications such as email, accounting software, CRM etc. are cloud based over the internet or based on a server onsite:
- Basic Browsing and Email: 1-5 Mbps per user
- HD Video Streaming: 5-10 Mbps per stream
- 4K Video Streaming: 25 Mbps per stream
- Video Conferencing: 2-5 Mbps per call
Large file transfers and data backup also drain available bandwidth and should be done out of hour when possible.
-
Consider the number of users and devices
Multiple users and devices (Laptops, Tablets, Mobiles) all connected to your network increase demand on your internet connection. But also, the demand for your internal computer network infostructure.
A member of staff could have two, three or even four devices connected to your network. Is your router/firewall and Wi-Fi capable of that amount simultaneous users.
-
Evaluate priorities for your devices
Every connected device, including computers, smartphones, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices, contributes to bandwidth usage. Ensure your speed accommodates all devices.
Consider downloading and upload user limits to ensure no one user grinds the business to a stop by overusing bandwidth. Consider implementing guest Wi-Fi with slower speed limits for mobile phones, especially if you all staff to connect their personal mobiles to your office Wi-Fi.
-
Evaluate your network infrastructure
Ensure your network infrastructure and the configuration you have can support your desired internet speed and the speed of the circuit you are paying to use.
Routers, Firewalls, Wi-Fi along with any structured cabling and switches all have limits that they can transfer data and could all be possible bottlenecks that give perception of slow internet speed and stop you getting the speed your business needs.