So you have decided to upgrade your small business with an NBN connection. You might be exposed to a pool of NBN service providers such as Aussie Broadband, Harbour ISP and Vodafone. Each of these service providers come with various plans targeted to individuals wanting NBN at home and office.
It is recommended that you look closely at NBN Business plans for your office instead of just subscribing to the cheapest, individual plans that are available.
Key features of NBN Business plans
Specifically created NBN plans for businesses may appear the same as any consumer plan but many features are provided that help a business grow better.
1> IP Address
For business plans, the NBN providers offer static IP address as opposed to the dynamic IP address that is provided to consumers. Having a static IP helps you to keep your servers aligned for creating a communications network. It helps to ensure you can create and run email servers and use other communications technologies smoothly.
2> High-speed modems
For business plans, few ISP providers might club a specific modem that is tested for heavy usage and have the ability to handle bandwidths that are generally well-suited for businesses. These modems are either provided at a lesser cost or sometimes free for long-term contracts. Do read the fine print on contracts since they can attract penalties on early disconnection.
3> VoIP landline
Businesses require an active phone line for functioning. NBN business plans can have bundled VoIP landline service at a lesser price. Apart from providing a VoIP phone, your ISP might even offer a mobile plan in the package.
4> Enhanced communication
Businesses require various enterprise telephone technologies that are covered under NBN business plans. Services such as a virtual PBX and hosted PBAX can help you reduce your costing since they can work without expensive initial outlay and extra rental costs. And you can take this very virtual phone number everywhere for greater flexibility.
5> Better customer support
Business NBN providers often have a separate line for customer support. This ensures that you get a priority at fault resolution and face minimal downtime. Also, the service provider can help you in setting up cloud-based technologies and even help in enhancing your network’s security to thwart any cyberattacks on your systems.
Points to remember
If you are ready to get an NBN business plan for your office, ensure that your research covers the following points.
- Find what type of connection your ISP provider offers. Currently, there is no way to select a particular connection and the type largely depends upon your vicinity.
- Check if the bundled package for the business plan comes with free calls locally and costs less for international calls.
- Do they provide a router or offer support to set up your pre-existing router.
- Any additional cost such as setup fee, one-off costs, and postage and handling charges.
- Research ISP used by other businesses around you and get feedback on the quality of their service.