If you haven’t yet switched to fibre internet, then end the year on a great note by investing in your business with the best connectivity option available. Fibre is a proven asset for corporates, but small business owners might also not realise the incredible benefits of fibre optic for their daily operations. Here is a look at how fibre can turbocharge your business!
What is fibre optic?
This is a form of internet that transfers data through plastic fibres or thin glass instead of traditional cables. There are three types of fibre internet options:
- FTTN (Fiber-to-the-node): This is the slowest option where the fibre optic cables reach your area with copper connecting you to the fibre.
- FTTH (Fiber-to-the-Home): This is a bit closer, with fibre cables connecting to your building, but not necessarily your home or office.
- FTTB (Fiber-to-the-Building) This is the fastest and most reliable connection, with fibre optic connected directly to your home or office.
How Fibre Internet helps small businesses
If you’re running a small business and looking for ways to maximise productivity in the long run, you probably need to assess your internet connectivity. Almost all business operations require fast, reliable internet for everything from business communication to research, and fibre is the best choice.
1. Faster uploads and downloads
Fibre optic has much faster speeds than other internet options, which means faster uploads and downloads. If your business relies on file sharing and other data-intensive tasks, you will immediately notice the benefits of this superior option.
2. Cloud services and data backup
Modern storage solutions are often cloud-based as this minimises the need for on-site hardware, while providing a safe and vast storage space for your business documentation. Fibre optic internet connectivity means better access to cloud-based services for storage and back, as well as other collaboration tools. You can quickly access any stored data making for seamless business operations.
3. Scalability
You might have a small business operation now, but when you start getting going, you might want to find your business is growing. With fibre optic internet, growing your business is a seamless experience as you can increase your internet capabilities as the business expands. On the other side of the spectrum, you can decrease your internet offering if you’re looking to scale down.
4. A reduction in downtime
Nothing is more disruptive to a business than constant breaks in the internet service which then impacts communication. With traditional cables, you probably find your internet is suspended when the weather turns – a common occurrence these days – there’s electromagnetic interference or cable theft. When you’ve got tight deadlines to meet and easily annoyed customers to attend to, your internet must be always functional.
5. Better signal strength
If you’re using traditional broadband internet that uses DSL or ethernet over copper, the further away you move from the switch, the quicker the signal degrades. With fibre optic, the signal doesn’t degrade as quickly which means you and your employees can work from anywhere.
6. Improved productivity
With limited downtime and faster internet speeds, you’re able to download faster, collaborate better, and improve productivity overall. When there’s reduced lag and latency, you’re able to engage online through video conferencing and more. It’s just better for business!
7. Increased security
Unlike other forms of communication, fibre optic is incredibly secure. If you’re a small business owner dealing with sensitive customer data or looking to protect your own, then you should have a secure line.
8. Cost savings
When you’re eliminating speed issues, increasing the reliability of your internet, and improving business productivity, you’re saving on costs over time. The cloud-based storage options, as well as the implementation of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) telecommunications will further save you on long-term costs.
9. Remote and flexible work
The rise in the remote working option has driven the need for enhanced internet capability. As a small business owner, you can save a lot in rental and costs associated with running an office if your employees can work remotely. Fibre optic internet offers the ideal solution as you can stay connected online, no matter where you are. The significant support for HD video means you can teleconference or video conference from anywhere.
10. Future-proofing
Finally, fibre optic technology is a way to protect your business operations in the future – something that is particularly relevant for small businesses.
Read More: How to choose the best fibre for small business
For the best in business fibre, get in touch with ECN today. They offer high-performance data for reliable internet connectivity!