As we look forward to what we all hope is a happy, healthy and successful 2022, we’d like to take a moment to expand upon some of the information we’ve provided in past blogs.

More specifically, let’s talk bandwidth. Here’s a quote from a past blog titled “Sorry Bandwidth”: 

“‘How do I know how much bandwidth my company needs? That’s the million dollar question. Internet Service Providers are quick to tell you how important it is to have the right amount of bandwidth. But they lack any unified procedure for calculating exactly what is that amount. Some will tell you that whatever number you come up with, it’s a good idea to double it. That just doesn’t sound like a good business approach to us.”

This is a common problem with both businesses and homes. A problem that can easily be solved if you know exactly how much bandwidth you need. That’s where a network performance assessment can come in handy.

Below is the bandwidth utilization for a current client over a six day period. As you can see, the most bandwidth they used was 24Mbps (Megabits per second). They only reach that threshold when they hold their bi-monthly webinar but it has to be accounted for when determining how much bandwidth they need.

After our assessment, we determined that the client’s Internet issues had to do with latency. They are transmitting data over a cable modem and we recommended they switch to fiber. We found a provider in the area that offers fiber. 

Here’s the problem both homes and businesses face when looking for a new provider. They will often try to convince you that you need more bandwidth. In this case, the provider recommends that if you have a home or business with more than 10 devices connected to the Internet (what home or business doesn’t) that you need their 700Mbps package. For almost DOUBLE the cost of their 300Mbps package.

Remarkably, they recommend that if you have more than 18 devices connected (again, what business doesn’t), you should go with their 1 Gig service (that’s 1000Mbps) at almost DOUBLE the 700Mbps price.

Our client needs a 50Mbps package that would cost less than all the ones they advertise, but they’ll have to call the provider to inquire. Where they will be advised that it won’t be sufficient. With the information they have in hand, our client knows it will be more than enough bandwidth to keep the company running smoothly. And they will save a lot of money.

Our 2022 advice to you is to get a network performance assessment so when your current provider contract is up, or you decide to look for another provider, you know exactly what bandwidth plan suits your needs – and your budget – best.

Have a safe, healthy, successful, happy new year.