In today’s digital age, internet accessibility and a reliable internet connection are necessary. However, internet cost is still a significant cost for many small businesses, especially for the ones who are just starting. Even though the internet cost differs from region to region, it is possible to manage and further reduce the internet cost. Here are a few ways through which small businesses can manage their internet cost and save some bucks.
1. Analyze Your Internet Bill
The first step towards managing the internet cost comes from analyzing internet bills. It is recommended to check the internet bill for the past several months to get a holistic idea. Try to understand how much the internet service provider charges and its services. What is the download and upload speed you are supposed to receive? You can use the website, Speed Test to check whether you receive the promised speed. Also, check the data cap on the internet.
It should be followed by checking whether you stay within the data limit or regularly pay overage fees. Finally, the data usage analysis will allow you to understand if you are paying for data which is going unused or not.
2. Identify Your Internet Speed Requirement
Even though everyone wants a high internet speed, it is not often required. It is common for users to pay for high internet speed even though it does not provide any value. Understand the internet speed requirement for the different business operations.
For example, any organization simply surfing the web and emailing and using up to two devices should do well with 25 Mbps. On the other hand, an organization with more than five devices in the network and sharing large files might need internet speed as high as 200 Mbps. So first, use Airtel to check your internet speed and then figure out whether you can subscribe to a lower internet speed plan.
3. MinimizeMinimize Devices
It is tough to minimize devices for a business because of the rising popularity of connected devices. However, small companies generally can minimize devices by excluding devices like smart TVs, smart thermostats and voice assistants. It is also recommended to reduce smart home gadgets. It is because these devices consume a huge amount of bandwidth which you can save when you eliminate them. Moreover, few devices mean fewer data overage fees and more efficient use of internet services.
4. Compare The Available Options
The market of internet service providers is blooming. Subsequently, in a competitive market, finding an equivalent or even better option at a low cost is possible. Therefore, comparing the available options is a good idea to see if you can choose a service provider that charges less for internet service. However, when comparing the open option, in addition to the price, one should also pay attention to its service.
5. Consider Your Modem/Router
If your internet service provider has offered you a modem or router, you should check whether it charges any rent. If yes, how much are you paying to rent it? Sometimes, buying a modem or router is more cost-effective than renting it.
6. Unbundle
Users, including business owners, often buy bundled subscriptions, thinking they are saving money. This illusion often comes in the form of numerous services in exchange for little extra money. However, one should ask if they really need the bundled subscription. Most of the bundled subscription includes entertainment services. Also, small businesses do not require such entertainment services; it is more fitted for home networks. Therefore, if you are availing of bundled subscriptions, unbundling it can help you cut the internet cost.
7. Switch To Mobile Hotspots
Broadband networks have become so common that most mobile internet data goes unused. Therefore, switching to a mobile hotspot is a wise idea to avoid overcharging due to extra data consumption. Most mobile plans offer internet services. One can use this internet when doing basic activities on the internet like checking bills and reading online content.
Lastly, one can also try switching companies regularly to take advantage of their promotional pricing. Most companies provide reasonable promotional pricing to lure new customers for a certain period, often for a year. Therefore, one can utilize the internet plan in its promotional pricing before switching to another company.
