In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the world of business internet has transformed drastically since the days of T1s and MPLS networks. Today, businesses are spoiled for choice with a range of connectivity types available for their needs, including cable, fiber broadband, fixed wireless, and cellular. These options are not only faster and cheaper but are also designed to cater to businesses located in various regions, including remote locations. As we navigate the digital age, let's take a closer look at these business connectivity types and how they're changing the face of enterprise networking.
Cable
The introduction of cable connectivity was a significant step up from traditional connectivity types. Originally based on coaxial cables, cable internet has since undergone numerous upgrades, leading to an enhancement of their networks with fiber optics. This enhancement has resulted in a massive increase in bandwidth, with most cable providers now offering download speeds of up to 1 Gig.
Despite the increased bandwidth, cable connectivity is mainly asymmetrical, providing lower upload speeds. However, this landscape is gradually shifting as some cable providers have started offering symmetrical broadband fiber to the premise (FTTP) in select markets. This breakthrough has not only revolutionized cable connectivity but also paved the way for more diverse options for businesses.
Fiber Broadband
Local Exchange Carriers' (LECs) offering for business internet used to primarily revolve around DSL. Fast-forward to today, and the landscape has evolved into fiber broadband options such as fiber to the node (FTTN) and fiber to the premise (FTTP).
FTTN, for example AT&T U-verse, is essentially an upgraded version of DSL where a fiber line runs from the central office to the node, and copper runs from the node to the premise. On the other hand, FTTP, for example Verizon FiOS, offers end-to-end fiber connectivity. With symmetrical bandwidth and blazing fast speeds, fiber broadband has become the new gold standard in business connectivity.
Fixed Wireless
For businesses in remote locations where wired internet is inaccessible, fixed wireless presents an excellent solution. This type of connectivity offers a mix of asymmetrical and symmetrical options, depending on the provider's infrastructure.
However, it's important to note that this connectivity type requires a line of sight to the provider's tower and may necessitate a site survey. Nevertheless, the emergence of fixed wireless has brought high-speed internet service to remote communities, thanks to the efforts of local and regional providers.
Cellular
Cellular connectivity has made tremendous strides over the years. It's not only quick and easy to deploy but also cost-effective and provides true redundancy when serving as a failover to wired internet. And for primary use cases, there are high data and unlimited data options such as AT&T’s Broadband over Wireless and Verizon’s Business Internet. The advent of 5G has elevated cellular connectivity even further, making it a future competitive alternative to wired internet.
How s2s Can Help
With a diverse range of connectivity options available, selecting the right one for your business might seem daunting. That's where s2s comes in. We are an ISP agnostic Managed Service Provider (MSP) that specializes in ISP aggregation and Managed Internet Service. Our team of telecom specialists is dedicated to helping you navigate the vast ocean of connectivity types and choosing the best internet available for your business locations.
Whether you're looking for a primary connection or a redundant one, we've got you covered. We invite you to contact us for a complimentary review of your network, and let us help you navigate the next phase of your business connectivity journey.
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