When it comes to running a business, who you are connected with matters when forming partnerships, gaining clients and stimulating profit growth. The same holds true when talking about Internet connectivity. If your workforce is efficiently connected to the people and information it needs for processes, your operations run more effectively.

So how should you connect your business to the Internet and the cloud? Broadband and Ethernet are two common choices for businesses. To help decide on the right solution, let's check out the differences and benefits of each service.

Broadband Pros and Cons

Broadband is usually the first type of connectivity option that is selected because it is so widely available and used by both businesses and residents. Also known as an Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), the service runs over standard telephone lines. The line then enters the business and is hooked directly into a modem as the Internet signal is sent to the router. Then your computing devices obtain the signal either using a hard line connection, such as an Ethernet cable, or with Wi-Fi. 

Broadband can offer great download and upload speeds over a shared public network depending on the carrier and the type of service you obtain: mobile Broadband, Wi-Fi, cable high-speed internet or DSL. The strength of the signal will also vary based on your location and business infrastructure. Since Broadband travels over telephone systems, installation is effortless as anyone can access the line. So it is the cheaper alternative, especially for home businesses and smaller operations where they may have fewer users connecting to the Internet.

While it offers connectivity anywhere, speeds can become slowed down based on the amount of Internet traffic over the shared public network. So a business may see a drop in quality during peak hours and greater speeds during off-peak hours. In addition, service delivery may be impacted based on how far away your business is located to Internet exchange points.

Ethernet Pros and Cons

Ethernet is often thought about when connecting several computers into a local area network (LAN). Yet technology has allowed Ethernet to evolve beyond local connectivity as it has become a desired way for businesses to connect to the Internet and to the cloud. This connection uses fiber-optic cables that are professionally installed into a business to provide high-bandwidth services from a dedicated network. 

One of the top advantages is that Ethernet can be customized to your business, which makes download and upload speeds consistent and exceptional since you are not sharing the connection with anyone else. Carriers will offer Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that are tailored to your business and Internet needs so you can obtain fast updates and repairs.

Due to Ethernet being a dedicated network using fiber-optic cables, installation is more complicated. It will take longer to install the cables throughout the business. Also, Ethernet is typically more expensive than Broadband. 

Selecting Between Ethernet and Broadband

Every business has its own unique specifications for Internet connectivity. Selecting the right connection and carrier service will be based on several factors including your computer infrastructure, region/country and your budget. At ATSI, we can help you determine the right Ethernet and Broadband services that will fit your company, as we will vet carrier providers and ensure your Internet connection service is implemented to your specifications. Contact us today to learn more.