All modern companies rely on network technology to get their work done. After all, most communication happens online and we store data on cloud services. Businesses shouldn’t leave their choice of internet type to chance. After all, the right network can help your business increase productivity, improve ROI, and even reduce security risks. Conversely, if you choose the wrong type, you may slow down your work or even cause your business not to function correctly.

To avoid choosing the wrong business internet, we are breaking down the two most common types of internet for enterprise customers so you can decide which is the best for you: Direct Internet Access and Traditional Business Broadband.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand the pros and cons of both so you can make the best choice for your particular business.

What is Direct Internet Access?

Direct internet access (DIA) is a type of internet that comes from a dedicated internet line. It comes in various connections, such as dedicated fiber, T1- DS1, dedicated copper, T3, or dedicated fixed wireless.

It’s a private connection that sends a set amount of bandwidth to your business and is not shared. Companies with many connected employees or those who would lose business without a strong internet connection are often drawn to this type of internet.

What is Traditional Business Broadband?

Traditional Business Broadband is a common type of business internet that uses a shared internet connection, meaning you share the same connection as many users in your area. Because the lines are shared, there is no guarantee of your service, and your network connection quality can vary. Common names for business broadband include shared fiber, cable, DSL, satellite, or wireless.

The connection depends on network traffic, the time of day, and your location. Because of its unpredictable nature, some business owners look for other options.

direct internet access vs traditional business broadband

DIA vs Traditional Business Broadband: Let’s Compare

Now that we’ve defined the two most common types of business internet, it’s time to dig in and explore what makes them different. Below we’ll explore both of their advantages and disadvantages so you can decide which is the best for your operation.

Performance

As we mentioned above, DIA has a dedicated internet line. Because of this, you’ll have highly reliable internet with consistent speeds. In addition, you’ll never have to deal with other internet traffic slowing you down.

While modern-day business broadband can meet the needs of most businesses, DIA might be a better option if you are in an industry that requires consistent high speeds and bandwidth. Examples of such businesses include call centers, warehouses, and trading companies.

Bandwidth

When it comes to broadband, bandwidth can vary due to the time of day or volume of users on the internet. In addition, broadband is dependent on other factors since you are sharing a connection. This can cause your internet speed to slow down, causing a frustrating work experience.

However, DIA gives you a fixed amount of bandwidth that is not shared with other customers. For example, your contract will state exactly what you are getting, and you will receive the agreed-upon amount 100% of the time. The bandwidth will also be symmetrical, which means your upload and download speeds will be the same. You’ll never have to worry about bandwidth because you know exactly what you signed up for.

Price

Business broadband wins this category, which is less expensive than DIA. Because you share your internet connection with other customers, the price is lower. How much less? GlobalInternet compared direct internet access with broadband in eight regions and found that broadband was as much as 241% lower in cost. Those are some significant savings.

Because of this, traditional broadband may be a better option if you are on a tight budget and have a small number of employees. However, you’ll have to determine if the cost will help your bottom line and increase ROI or if it would just be nice to have. For example, if you are running a large warehouse that depends on the internet for productivity, you won’t want to take the risk of having inconsistent internet. On the other hand, if you are a small start-up with three employees who only use the internet for cloud software and Zoom calls, you can probably rely on broadband internet comfortably.

Choose Your Internet Based on Your Business Needs

By now, you understand what direct internet access and business broadband are. Use this information to decide what type of connectivity your business needs. Think about how your business uses the internet, the number of people you have connected, and how performance will impact your day-to-day. These factors will help you make the best internet decision for your own business.

Do you need help deciding? Contact our specialists at 877-722-3833 and we will help you pick the right service for you.