Being connected to the online digital world is essential for businesses. A reliable internet connection enables companies from one-person operations to large enterprises to use digital services, communicate with suppliers, market to customers, and even offer perks like free Wi-Fi.
You likely already use some kind of internet connection for your business. But is it the right fit or holding you back? If you or your staff frequently complain about slow internet, or if your connectivity bills are very high, or if you are adding several new devices or people to your existing network, maybe it's time to consider alternatives.
Even if your internet connection is fine, are you reaping enough of its benefits? Are you using online sales and marketing, voice lines, information from Internet of Things sensors, or keeping your operations, staff, and customers safe with cybersecurity? Make sure your business is future fit. Because as your business grows you may want to add VoiP calling, monitor and track people, places or things via IoT, add cloud, hosting and security solutions. These can only be done on a business grade internet connection
The connected world offers many benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
Selecting connectivity
Connectivity starts with the right broadband package. Those looking for hassle-free and portable connections should consider LTE for business internet—particularly suited for sole proprietors, companies with little staff, and people who run their business on the go*.
A business with multiple users often requires consistent, high-speed internet with few limitations. For them, business fibre is the best choice. But what if fibre isn't available in your area? No problem! Wireless Internet offers competitive fibre-like speed and no-fuss broadband internet alternatives. And with LTE back-up available, because no business can afford to be offline.
Adding business enhancements
Once you have a business internet connection, you can connect to Wi-Fi, send emails, and market your services on social media. Now you can also access specialised services that enhance your operations.
Businesses can optimise their data lines by adding Voice-over-IP (VoIP), which is just like having a landline phone with a number but without the hassle of renting and installing a physical line. You can add multiple VoIP numbers without needing to add phone lines, and you can use an affordable virtual switchboard if you want to manage them.
Connecting a business to the online and digital worlds opens up numerous opportunities. For example, online marketing offers many ways to promote your business and its brands, from setting up custom web domains and creating websites to online advertising and e-commerce stores.
Internet of Things (IoT) products help businesses manage their operations and resources in real-time. Businesses can manage utilities, track footfall, and even monitor fridge temperatures and office comfort levels, creating significant savings and insights. Most companies, supply chains, and building managers can deploy IoT services affordably, starting small and scaling it up as their operations grow.
Staying secure
Cybercrime is unfortunately a reality that all companies must deal with. Yet, they are not alone. There are several ways to help businesses keep their people, data, and systems secure.
A virtual private network (VPN) ensures private and encrypted access for branches, contractors, and supply chain partners. VPNs create one secure network across all your branches and connected services, provide private interactions, and enable you to prioritise and manage your broadband traffic, saving you money.
VPNs are also a great way to help remote-working employees connect securely with your business systems. An enhanced Secure Remote Access service will help out-of-office workers connect via the internet while staying safe.
There are many other ways to strengthen your business security. Email is the most common way that criminals use to attack businesses. Email security services help keep your accounts secure in affordable ways that are effortless to manage. You can keep all your systems secure as well with perimeter security, which includes firewalls that block unwanted visitors and proactive intrusion prevention that stops attacks before they can do damage.
What about devices like phones and tablets? No problem—monitor and manage your company's smart devices with secure device management. Whether they are company devices or your employees' personal devices, you can keep them safe and secure.
Getting more from connectivity
Chances are your business is already connected. But is it the right fit? Many business choose their internet based on price and speed only. But a business needs a business-grade Internet service that serves as the foundation for everything else you may want to add to it (VoIP, IoT, Cloud services etc) as your business grows. Selecting the best connectivity for your needs saves money and offers dynamic Business solutions.
Once your company is online, you can add services that will boost sales and productivity: from online stores to employees who can work from anywhere, a connected business is in touch with a world of possibilities.
Don't let those opportunities pass by. Discover what the right connectivity services can offer today.
*Can be used wherever power is available.