Medium Business Internet

For medium-sized businesses, internet redundancy is crucial for business continuity. Consider these options:

• Secondary wired connection: A backup connection from a different provider using a different technology (e.g., fiber primary with cable backup)
• 4G/5G failover: Wireless backup that automatically activates if your primary connection fails
• SD-WAN solutions: Technology that can intelligently route traffic across multiple connections
• Load balancing: Distribute traffic across multiple connections for both redundancy and increased bandwidth

Additionally, implement these best practices:

• Regularly test your failover systems
• Develop a business continuity plan for internet outages
• Consider cloud-based applications that can be accessed from alternative locations
• Ensure critical systems have offline capabilities when possible

Medium-sized businesses should prioritize these security features in their internet plans:

• DDoS protection: Defends against distributed denial-of-service attacks that can take down your internet connection
• Advanced firewalls: Business-grade firewalls with intrusion detection and prevention
• Content filtering: Blocks malicious websites and inappropriate content
• VPN capabilities: Secure remote access for employees working outside the office
• Malware and ransomware protection: Scans traffic for threats before they reach your network
• Security monitoring: 24/7 monitoring for suspicious activity
• Email security: Protection against phishing and email-based threats

Many providers offer tiered security packages that can be added to your internet plan. Consider working with a managed security service provider (MSSP) for comprehensive protection, especially if you handle sensitive data or must comply with industry regulations.

Medium-sized businesses with multiple locations should consider these connectivity options:

• SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network): Modern solution that intelligently routes traffic across multiple connection types, optimizing performance and providing redundancy
• MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching): Traditional private network solution that provides secure, reliable connections between locations with guaranteed performance
• Site-to-site VPN: More affordable option that creates secure tunnels between locations over the public internet
• Metro Ethernet: High-speed connectivity for locations in the same metropolitan area

When connecting multiple locations, consider:

• Working with a single provider that can service all locations for simplified management
• Implementing centralized management for network visibility across all sites
• Ensuring consistent security policies across all locations
• Planning for scalability as your business adds more locations

When upgrading your internet as your business grows from small to medium-sized, consider these factors:

• Bandwidth needs: Assess your current usage and project future needs based on growth plans
• Connection type: Consider upgrading from cable or DSL to fiber for better reliability and symmetrical speeds
• Dedicated vs. shared: Evaluate whether dedicated internet access is now necessary for your operations
• Network infrastructure: Upgrade internal networking equipment (routers, switches, access points) to handle increased bandwidth
• IP address requirements: Secure additional static IP addresses for new services or applications
• Enhanced SLAs: Negotiate stronger service level agreements with financial guarantees
• Redundancy: Implement backup connections for business continuity
• Security: Enhance security measures to protect more users and data

Work with a business internet specialist who can assess your specific needs and help you plan a scalable solution that will accommodate your continued growth.