Alternative ways MSPs can provide internet connectivity
In this article, we will discuss how you can get internet connectivity other than the common leased lines, broadband and bonded broadband. Know when you should consider such alternates and what advantages and disadvantages are associated with it.
In many recent years, MSPs (Managed Service Providers) have fallen into higher demand for various businesses seeking optimal internet connectivity. However, before choosing an MSP for your business connectivity, it is beneficial to understand what it is, the different types of connectivity available, and the advantages/challenges it can bring to your company.What types of internet connectivity is there?
Internet connectivity is one of the most essential aspects of any business. Thus, it can be difficult to choose the right type of internet connectivity provider from the wide range of options. They are as follows:Broadband
Standard business broadband is one of the most common options for internet connectivity. This consists of having a broadband provider who supplies the internet connection for your business, through a broadband router at your location. With your business devices connected to the router through cable or wireless connection, you will have the internet connection speed specifically given by the provider.Bonded broadband
Bonded broadband is similar to standard broadband, except it combines multiple broadband lines together to give you a greater internet connection, as opposed to one standard broadband line. For instance, you can combine ASDL or cable broadband lines together, and each individual connectivity speed will combine to give you a total increased speed.Leased line
This involves a 'leased' (rented) connectivity line that is given to a business through a service provider. Whereas broadband lines are used by multiple recipients, leased lines are dedicated internet connections that are exclusive to the one recipient who is renting it.MSPs
Managed Service Providers are third party companies that are given management over various IT structural requirements in a business, including networking. The MSPs use RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) to manage your internet connectivity needs remotely.When should a business consider using an MSP for internet connectivity?
There are various reasons why a company might want to consider using an MSP for their internet connectivity.
Firstly, if your company has a limited budget, it can be much more cost-effective to have an MSP. Whilst the cost of the MSP can range from cheaper to more costly than broadband, they also handle a vast range of IT services surrounding connectivity - such as security and issue-resolving - meaning you will not need to spend additional costs to fix any problems.
Also, many businesses will either not have or not be able to afford an IT specialist. This will prove difficult when any IT issues arrive that can disrupt the running of your business and cause many costly problems. MSPs take this burden for you and handle all your IT requirements as well as connectivity.
You may also have a business in a rural location that cannot gain access to sufficient broadband
connectivity. Thus, MSPs will provide you with specialist connectivity that can provide you internet
wherever you are, due to them handling your network requirements remotely using RMM.What are the advantages of alternative connection types over standard broadband?
As well as the above, there are various other advantages to choosing alternative connection types such as MSPs for your business as opposed to standard broadband.
Firstly, standard broadband allows multiple recipients to use the internet connection provided in the area, whereas alternatives such as MSPs allow for direct, exclusive connectivity. This will remove any contending for internet connectivity and, thus, give you a faster, uninterrupted internet connection.
Connectivity types such as MSPs can also offer a more advanced form of cyber-security than standard broadband. With expert teams continuously managing your services and robust firewalls to protect your networking, your data and connectivity will have greater protection from any threats.
Also, with all your services being handled by one connectivity provider, you will only have to communicate with one provider directly to resolve any issues, as opposed to separately involving broadband providers and calling them to resolve issues. With all your needs in one place, your business will operate smoother and faster if met with any connectivity issues.What are the problems with installing alternative internet connections?
Whilst there are many advantages to alternative connections such as MSPs, there may be a few challenges.
Firstly, unlike standard broadband, providers such as MSPs are more heavily involved in the structure of the business IT services. This means that there will be a greater need for MSPs to be sensitive to the cultures and inner workings of the business. Therefore, It may prove difficult for MSPs to effectively integrate into the business and learn their ways of operation.
Also, with providers such as MSPs on the continuous rise in popularity, there is a greater risk of commoditization. This will result in MSP companies fighting to stay ahead of the industry by offering further services, but this can potentially lead to increased prices as each MSP seeks to raise the standard.
