subject: Is It Prudent To Obtain A Broadband Package That Has All The Features? [print this page] There are two main options available to the UK consumer when it comes to broadband providers. The first option is ADSL broadband. BT is the main provider of copper wire ADSL broadband. The other option is fibre-optic broadband as supplied by Virgin Media.
You can get various features depending on which business broadband provider you choose. Your choice of broadband package will depend on whether you want it for business or home use. Some packages come with a set limit to how much you can download a month, whereas others will have unlimited downloading each month. Different packages have different maximum line speeds but the maximum speed you will receive depends on how well developed the cable network is in your area. Contracts have varying durations so bear this in mind if you want the flexibility to change your package in a year for example. The monthly download limits and the line's speed will affect how much you are charged each month.
Different extras may come with different broadband packages. Business broadband packages can include for example a wireless router, static IP addresses, a set amount of webspace, security software and POP3 mailboxes. If considering a business broadband package, check whether it has better security than a similar domestic package, including things such as data backup or a firewall. The support that comes with a business broadband package is in general better than the support with a domestic package so find out if things like 24/7 free-phone support are included with the business package. Find out if the package supports a networked office if this is something you require. Check to see if a broadband package offers a static IP address if you want to operate mail servers.
To get a better deal on broadband you may want to consider a bundle including TV and/or phone call packages. If you are looking for TV and/or phone call deals in addition to broadband, these bundles can prove cost efficient. It is best to choose a solely broadband package however if you don't want TV and/or phone packages.
Whatever broadband package you choose should cover your needs but it is not necessary to have it exceed them. A broadband package with unlimited/large download limits is best if you will be doing lots of downloading. If you don't use the internet a lot, it may be better to get a cheaper broadband package that has lower line speeds and/or small monthly download limits, as there is no need to pay for extra features that you won't use. If you want business broadband then pick a package with excellent security features and 24/7 support. Broadband packages with all the features are good if you require the features, but if not it can be much more cost effective to use a broadband package that meets your needs without paying for extra features you don't need.
