smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

A huge proportion of small businesses still use unsuitable consumer internet packages, despite the fact that, without breaking the bank, a good business broadband service can offer much faster download speeds, far greater reliability and, crucially, free 24 hour support when things go wrong.

But why is this? The simple answer is that with so many similar sounding broadband packages competing for subscribers broadband has never been cheaper; it’s understandable that many small businesses and sole traders are tempted to keep costs downs and select their broadband provider on price alone.

Yet when your business relies on the internet; is it wise to risk cutting corners and web credibility by placing your faith in a service ill equipped to support your needs?

The benefits of business broadband

Speed

Business broadband offers faster download speeds than home broadband. This is a key factor as web pages become ever heavier with more graphical content and embedded videos. Yet alarmingly, many home broadband packages offer download speeds as low as 2 Mb; and when multiple people are sharing such a service it can quickly feel like a dial up connection all over again.

Peace of mind

Business broadband offers far greater support than home broadband. In a world where a rival’s products or services are only a click away, an unreliable internet connection can cost valuable time and money. That is why it is crucial to find a business broadband provider that understands the needs of small busineses.

Free 24/7 support and free-antivirus software should be the minimum level of support that you can expect to receive.

A low contention ratio

Business broadband provides a lower contention ratio than home broadband. If your business is suffering from slow connection speeds at peak traffic times it is likely that the number of people sharing the line with you is too high. A switch to a business broadband service with a lower contention ratio, where there are fewer users sharing your line, will not only guarantee faster download speeds it will also ensure a more stable connection.

Greater value

Business broadband often provides a free domain name and a static IP address. A domain name allows small businesses the opportunity to create their own content with their own name and this helps build both credibility and market awareness. Whilst a static IP address allows a user to access their PC anywhere in the world and enables them to run their own email server, web server and private network.

UK Online business broadband

'UK Online’s Business Broadband Package was created specifically to help small businesses and is committed to providing them with first-class service together with a business strength broadband option.

The Service:

'The package is available from £19.99 per month (+VAT) and comes with a free connection for a limited period.

- 8Mb connection - download a 10Mb file in under 12 seconds
- Unlimited service with no download limits
- A low 20:1 contention ratio
- UK based 24/7 freephone technical support with no premium rate call charge
- Up to 20 email addresses with domain name, webmail and SPAMfilter
- Free McAfee Security for 12 months (worth £50)
- Free connection - SAVE £25 for a limited period'

To sign up or to find out more visit www.ukonline.net or call 0800 053 0604.

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