Advantages and disadvantages of accounting software
In this guide:
- Accounting software
- How to keep business accounts
- Advantages and disadvantages of accounting software
- Types of accounting software
- Choosing the right accounting package
- Accounting requirements checklist
- Key features of accounting packages
- Specialised requirements for your accounting package
- Implementation checklist for new accounting package
How to keep business accounts
Different ways of keeping small business accounts, including spreadsheets and accounting software packages.
In order to run any business, you need to keep accounts or pay someone to do this for you. Keeping accounts is a legal requirement, but keeping them well is vital to running your business effectively. There are many ways of keeping accounts, including:
- paper-based accounts
- spreadsheet accounts
- computerised accounting packages
Paper-based accounts
Traditionally, accounts were kept on paper with handwritten entries. Many small businesses relied on the traditional methods of bookkeeping, often using specially printed books to organise records. However, handwritten accounts can take a significant amount of business time and it is easy to make mistakes.
If you currently keep paper records such as a notebook or paper receipts, you can continue doing so. However, if you are a VAT-registered business, you must also keep your records of sales and purchases digitally (unless you are exempt). Find out more about Making Tax Digital for VAT.
Accounting spreadsheets
You can set up computing spreadsheets to keep accounts. They can do the sums for you and update all data in a series of spreadsheets simultaneously. However, designing and maintaining a spreadsheet accounts system can be a significant task. Mistakes made in a spreadsheet may go unnoticed and not get corrected until the end of the year.
If you choose to keep digital records on a spreadsheet, you should use bridging software to make sure your spreadsheet is Making Tax Digital compliant. You can use the HMRC online service to search for bridging software.
Accounting software packages
The ease and efficiency of accounting software generally make it a better choice for most businesses. If you choose carefully, the right package can:
- save you time and money
- reduce mistakes in your calculations
- help you gain insights into your business that you would not easily see in paper accounts
A software package that is compatible with Making Tax Digital for VAT will also allow you to keep digital records and submit VAT returns, to ensure that you meet your responsibilities towards HMRC. To find out more, watch a video about getting compatible software.
Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of accounting software.
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Advantages and disadvantages of accounting software
Find out how the right accounting software can help your business, and understand the potential pitfalls.
Reliable accounting software is likely to benefit many businesses. However, such software sometimes comes with its share of problems, so it is important not to overlook the possible issues.
Advantages of accounting software
Benefits of accounting software include:
- simple data entry - it is typically fast, straightforward and only required once
- fast processes - delays, for example between a sale and invoicing, are minimal
- digital record keeping - essential for compliance with Making Tax Digital for VAT
- automation of reports and analysis - eg on profit and loss, debtors and creditors, customer accounts, inventory counts, sales, forecasting, etc
- automation of tasks - eg calculating pay, producing payslips, calculating and submitting VAT, etc
- reduction of errors - eg transposition of figures, incorrect or incomplete recording of transactions, etc
- integration with other systems, such as online banking and e-filing
Using accounting software can help you save time and money, and offer you valuable insight into your business. If you choose the package carefully, investing in a computerised accounting system can be one of the best decisions you can make for your business.
Find tips on choosing the right accounting package and use this HMRC service to search for Making Tax Digital for VAT compliant software.
Disadvantages of accounting software
Certain problems and disadvantages are worth considering if you are looking to use accounting software in your business. For example:
- Price - the package cost, although small in relation to your other costs, is higher than a paper-based system.
- Implementation - manual accounts are generally easier to set up and can be more flexible than computerised accounting. You will probably need some initial help setting up accounting software. Your accountant or system provider will usually charge you for this service.
- Support - you may need to purchase yearly maintenance and support for your package.
- Specialised needs - an accounts package will typically suit most types of business. However, specialist businesses may need to refine the package or change their processes to use accounting software successfully. See more on specialised requirements for your accounting package.
Accounting software may sometimes also have a steep learning curve, so if you are more comfortable writing up ledgers and books, keeping manual accounts may be a simpler option.
Do I need to use accounting software?
Not all businesses will benefit from using accounting software. However, you can't successfully manage your business without some sort of an accounting system. Whether you choose manual over computerised accounting, it's entirely up to you. See how to keep business accounts.
Small or new businesses are probably likely to use manual accounts or a combination of manual and computerised systems until their accounting needs become more complex. You can use our accounting requirements checklist to help you assess and prioritise your accounting needs.
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Types of accounting software
Understand the different types of accounting software, from free software and small business packages, to cloud accounting and enterprise-level software.
Accounting software allows you to monitor and manage the financial health of your business. Many different types of accounting packages are available on the market, with options to suit different business sizes, sectors, industries and even work processes.
Free accounting software
It is possible to get small business accounting software for free. However, free software often comes with limitations - for example, disruptive advertising or locked access to advanced features that are bundled into paid tiers.
If you're not sure which accounting software to use, freeware may allow you to try out different products without having to commit. It can also help you familiarise yourself with using different features so you have a better idea of what type of product you might need.
Small business accounting software
Small business accounting software typically provides all the basic bookkeeping features like invoicing, payroll, reporting and more. These are usually simple programs, easy to use, available off-the-shelf or over the internet. They may have different tiered price plans, providing more functionality for additional fees.
Some small business accounting packages may allow you to integrate them with other services you use in your business, for example, job scheduling or online payments. Other solutions may allow you to create customised functions or modules to fit your specific needs.
Enterprise accounting software
Enterprise accounting software is a package of programmes that allows an organisation to track their financial transactions and the resulting data.
These types of packages are usually more expensive and offer all the standard financial tools and reports, as well as a wider range of features and functions. For example, they will often integrate:
- billing
- purchasing
- reconciliation
- supply chain software
- inventory control
- customer relationship management
- business intelligence through analytics and dashboards
Enterprise-level software commonly features industry-specific modules, eg for construction or manufacturing. Keep in mind that advanced features come at a higher price, so unless you run a complex operation or have very specific business needs, investing in such software may not be worth your while.
Online accounting software
Both free and paid for accounting software may be hosted online or on remote servers in the cloud. Such products offer accounting capabilities in a way that is similar to Software as a Service (SaaS) business model.
Online accounting software usually offers great flexibility and cost benefits. It frees you from having to install and maintain software on your premises and allows you to access your data and your services from remote offices or on the go. However, due to their nature, online accounting software systems pose certain risks, in particular to:
- data protection
- portability of your data
- business continuity options
- service level agreements around service provision
- reliance on internet access and connectivity
If you're considering cloud computing, read about the advantages and disadvantages of SaaS.
Within all the different categories of accounting packages, you can choose from many different options. It is important to choose a solution that fits your business needs. Avoid paying for extra features if you don't need them and, if possible, check trial versions first to make sure that the software meets your expectations.
Find software compatible with Making Tax Digital
All VAT-registered businesses should now be signed up for Making Tax Digital for VAT. If you're not signed up, HM Revenue & Customs will sign you up automatically unless you are exempt or have applied for exemption.
You should now keep VAT records and submit VAT Returns using compatible software. This may be:
- record-keeping software that updates and stores your records digitally and works directly with HMRC systems allowing you to file a VAT Return
- bridging software which works with non-compatible software like spreadsheets, accounting systems and other digital bookkeeping products and lets you send the required information digitally to HMRC in the correct format
If you haven't got it already, search for compatible software to ensure you can meet your Making Tax Digital obligations.
See more on choosing the right accounting package.
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Choosing the right accounting package
How to choose the right accounting package for your business and assess your needs and requirements for accounting software.
Finding the best accounting software that will deliver on all your business needs isn't always easy. Here are some things to consider:
- Is the software built for a particular size of business? For example, a micro business' needs will usually be different from those of a large company.
- Is the software a good fit for your specific industry or business sector?
- How much does it cost and are there any add-on expenses for maintaining the software?
- What features does the software offer? Can you customise it if the basic components don't fit your specific needs?
- Will the software help you comply with statutory requirements, such as audit trails, tax returns or annual accounts?
- Is the software accredited as compliant with all the necessary services? For example, the HMRC's Making Tax Digital for VAT or the PAYE recognition scheme.
- What support is available for the setup, staff training and running and maintenance of the system, and at what cost?
- What security measures are in place to back up data and keep business and customer information safe?
- Is your accountant familiar with the software and is the software itself compatible with the accountant's package? If you're working with an accountant to submit your business accounts, you will most likely want to be able to exchange accounts data electronically.
To help you search for the right software, HMRC offers two tools: find payroll software that is recognised by HMRC and find software for Making Tax Digital for VAT.
Define your business requirements
Once you determine what package options are available, you should define your business requirements and needs, and match them to the existing packages. To assist you with this, we have developed two resources:
- an accounting requirements checklist - to help you assess your business' basic accounting needs
- a list of key features of accounting packages - to help you understand the different tasks accounting software packages can carry out
If your business needs are complex or industry-specific tasks, see specialised requirements for your accounting package.
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Accounting requirements checklist
A checklist to help you work out your business' basic accounting needs before selecting an accounts package.
Keeping good accounts is vital for the health and survival of your business. In order to assess what your business' accounting requirements are, it may be helpful to consider the following:
- Is your business a limited company or do you operate as a sole trader? Sole traders may be able to use a personal accounts package rather than a business package, as they are unlikely to need payroll processing.
- Do you have to comply with Making Tax Digital for VAT? All VAT-registered businesses should now be signed up for Making Tax Digital for VAT. If you're not signed up, HM Revenue & Customs will sign you up automatically unless you are exempt or have applied for exemption. You should now keep VAT records and submit VAT Returns using compatible software.
- Do you have employees? If so, you may want an accounting package with a payroll function rather than separate payroll software. You may need to file certain PAYE returns online, so check that the software can handle e-filing and meets the HM Revenue & Customs payroll standard.
- What is the number of transactions that you expect to do in a month? If less than ten, you may find that a manual accounts system will be the best choice. If more than ten, you may need to select a package designed for higher levels of activity.
- What is the number of users of the accounts package at any given time? If one person does all the accounts work, a simple low-cost package may suffice. However, if several people are entering transactions at the same time, you will need something more sophisticated.
- What computer systems do you use? Most businesses use personal computers with a Windows Operating System and there is a wide range of accounts software for this platform. If you use Macintosh or Linux, your choice of software may be restricted and you may need to consider using a Windows-based PC just for the accounts package. Some applications rely on additional software to link a Macintosh computer to a Windows-based PC.
When you've worked out your business' basic accounting needs, you may want to consider any specialised requirements for your accounting package.
How to prioritise your business' accounting needs
When you are looking at your accounting needs, it is unlikely that a single software package will tick every box on your list. You may need to prioritise features that are essential to your core requirements. To help you do this, think about:
- how much time and cost a particular feature will save you
- what are the consequences of omitting the feature
- could you add the feature on in the future
- how your requirements are likely to change in the future
You could give each detailed feature a rating, for example:
- must have - without this feature the package is not usable
- advantageous - the feature would save a lot of time
- nice to have - useful, but not essential
This will allow you to compare your requirements against each accounting package. If the package doesn't meet your basic or 'must have' business requirements, discard it. From the rest, select the one that delivers the greatest number of advantageous and 'nice to have' features at a price your business can afford.
See also how to choose software for your business.
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Key features of accounting packages
Understand the key features of accounting software, and how they could meet your business' specific needs and requirements.
There are many types of accounting packages for business, with many different features and key functionalities. The software you should consider will depend on the type of business you have and how you run it.
Ideally, you should look for an accounts package that can meet all your basic business needs as well as detailed requirements. To help you work out your basic needs, see our accounting requirements checklist.
Detailed requirements for accounting packages
Requirements you may want to consider include:
- Basic bookkeeping - eg sales and purchase ledgers, nominal ledger and invoicing.
- Ability to keep digital records for Making Tax Digital for VAT purposes.
- VAT calculations - your accounts system should be able to keep track of VAT and calculate your VAT payment at the end of each VAT period.
- Payroll processing - if you have employees, consider a payroll function that calculates PAYE (Pay As You Earn) and National Insurance contributions weekly or monthly.
- Automatisation of management reports - you may need to prepare internal management reports periodically, and a system that gives regular management accounts will help improve business efficiency.
- Invoicing - any accounts package needs to be able to produce invoices, but you will probably want to be able to customise them and you may want to send them by email.
- Credit control - an accounts package can help by highlighting where customers have exceeded their limits and providing statements to chase them.
- Compatibility with other computer systems - including accounts system used by your accountant, as well as stock control systems, an e-commerce website or customer relationship management systems.
- Industry accreditation - from an independent industry body such as the Business Application Software Developers Association.
If your business needs are more complex, see also specialised requirements for your accounting package.
If you are struggling to find the right accounting package, it might be worth asking for advice, or finding out how others in your industry computerise their accounts.
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Specialised requirements for your accounting package
Tailored accounts packages can include specialised features, such as VAT schemes, stock control and electronic payment features.
When choosing an accounts package for your business, you may find that general-purpose applications don't entirely fit your requirements. Depending on how complex your needs are, you may need to consider:
- software with integrated or add-on modules for specific tasks, eg project accounting
- industry-specific solutions
- custom-built solutions
Some of the more common specialised features in accounting software are listed below. You can get accounts packages with all of these features if you need them, but the cost is likely to be higher.
Specialised VAT schemes
There are a number of these, the most familiar of which is the Cash Accounting Scheme where you pay VAT when your invoices have been paid. There are others such as the Flat Rate and Retail Schemes. If you use any of these schemes you should look for a package that supports them.
Foreign currency
If you buy and sell in foreign currencies your accounts may be more complex. You can purchase accounts packages that fully support foreign currencies, but these tend to be designed and priced for larger businesses. You can still operate with a cheaper package, but you will have to do more of the work manually.
Stock control
If your business sells products rather than services and you have a high turnover of sales, you may benefit from integrating your stock control function with your accounts.
Retail point-of-sale
If you have a high volume of small value sales, eg if you have a shop, you should look for an accounts system that supports this type of operation.
Electronic payments
There are significant benefits in paying invoices online using electronic funds transfer. Some accounts packages support this capability in an integrated fashion. If this would deliver significant benefits for your business it is worth investigating how the packages work and the costs that apply to this type of service.
Integration with other IT systems
You may wish to integrate your accounting software with your other software such as customer relationship management or e-commerce website. For example, you may want online financial transactions to be recorded directly to your accounting software.
To help you work out your business' accounting needs, see also our accounting requirements checklist.
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Implementation checklist for new accounting package
How to set up your accounts package and develop a software implementation plan for your business.
There are many approaches to setting up a new accounting package and making it work for your business. Most begin with careful planning and analysis of critical steps that you need to carry out for a successful implementation of the package.
Accounting software implementation checklist
Your implementation plan should consider the following:-
Step 1: Package installation
This will usually be in the form of a CD-Rom, or via internet if hosted in the cloud, and may require you to register the package with the supplier so it is fully licensed and works correctly. Depending on the complexity of the package, the supplier may install it for you.
Step 2: Initial company setup
You will need to enter details of your business including the year-end date, the form of VAT accounting you use and other details. Your accounts package may have several different Charts of Accounts - ie the headings you use in your accounts - so you can choose to suit your type of business. However, you may need to tailor this to your requirements. Your accountant should be able to advise you on this work, or undertake it for you. See how to choose an accountant.
Step 3: Parallel running
You may find it useful to run your old accounts and the new package alongside each other for a while to ensure that you are getting the correct results. However, it is difficult to maintain parallel running for very long because of the duplication of effort.
Step 4: Training
The staff who will work with the accounts package on a day-to-day basis should ideally have some formal training. You should time this training so that it is done shortly before the installation of the software.
Step 5: Support
It is a good idea to purchase a support agreement from your supplier for your new accounts package, at least for the first year of operation so that you have a readily available contact to help sort out queries and problems. Many small businesses find that a support agreement is a good investment even after this initial period.
For more best practice tips, see also software installation and maintenance.
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Types of accounting software
In this guide:
- Accounting software
- How to keep business accounts
- Advantages and disadvantages of accounting software
- Types of accounting software
- Choosing the right accounting package
- Accounting requirements checklist
- Key features of accounting packages
- Specialised requirements for your accounting package
- Implementation checklist for new accounting package
How to keep business accounts
Different ways of keeping small business accounts, including spreadsheets and accounting software packages.
In order to run any business, you need to keep accounts or pay someone to do this for you. Keeping accounts is a legal requirement, but keeping them well is vital to running your business effectively. There are many ways of keeping accounts, including:
- paper-based accounts
- spreadsheet accounts
- computerised accounting packages
Paper-based accounts
Traditionally, accounts were kept on paper with handwritten entries. Many small businesses relied on the traditional methods of bookkeeping, often using specially printed books to organise records. However, handwritten accounts can take a significant amount of business time and it is easy to make mistakes.
If you currently keep paper records such as a notebook or paper receipts, you can continue doing so. However, if you are a VAT-registered business, you must also keep your records of sales and purchases digitally (unless you are exempt). Find out more about Making Tax Digital for VAT.
Accounting spreadsheets
You can set up computing spreadsheets to keep accounts. They can do the sums for you and update all data in a series of spreadsheets simultaneously. However, designing and maintaining a spreadsheet accounts system can be a significant task. Mistakes made in a spreadsheet may go unnoticed and not get corrected until the end of the year.
If you choose to keep digital records on a spreadsheet, you should use bridging software to make sure your spreadsheet is Making Tax Digital compliant. You can use the HMRC online service to search for bridging software.
Accounting software packages
The ease and efficiency of accounting software generally make it a better choice for most businesses. If you choose carefully, the right package can:
- save you time and money
- reduce mistakes in your calculations
- help you gain insights into your business that you would not easily see in paper accounts
A software package that is compatible with Making Tax Digital for VAT will also allow you to keep digital records and submit VAT returns, to ensure that you meet your responsibilities towards HMRC. To find out more, watch a video about getting compatible software.
Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of accounting software.
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Advantages and disadvantages of accounting software
Find out how the right accounting software can help your business, and understand the potential pitfalls.
Reliable accounting software is likely to benefit many businesses. However, such software sometimes comes with its share of problems, so it is important not to overlook the possible issues.
Advantages of accounting software
Benefits of accounting software include:
- simple data entry - it is typically fast, straightforward and only required once
- fast processes - delays, for example between a sale and invoicing, are minimal
- digital record keeping - essential for compliance with Making Tax Digital for VAT
- automation of reports and analysis - eg on profit and loss, debtors and creditors, customer accounts, inventory counts, sales, forecasting, etc
- automation of tasks - eg calculating pay, producing payslips, calculating and submitting VAT, etc
- reduction of errors - eg transposition of figures, incorrect or incomplete recording of transactions, etc
- integration with other systems, such as online banking and e-filing
Using accounting software can help you save time and money, and offer you valuable insight into your business. If you choose the package carefully, investing in a computerised accounting system can be one of the best decisions you can make for your business.
Find tips on choosing the right accounting package and use this HMRC service to search for Making Tax Digital for VAT compliant software.
Disadvantages of accounting software
Certain problems and disadvantages are worth considering if you are looking to use accounting software in your business. For example:
- Price - the package cost, although small in relation to your other costs, is higher than a paper-based system.
- Implementation - manual accounts are generally easier to set up and can be more flexible than computerised accounting. You will probably need some initial help setting up accounting software. Your accountant or system provider will usually charge you for this service.
- Support - you may need to purchase yearly maintenance and support for your package.
- Specialised needs - an accounts package will typically suit most types of business. However, specialist businesses may need to refine the package or change their processes to use accounting software successfully. See more on specialised requirements for your accounting package.
Accounting software may sometimes also have a steep learning curve, so if you are more comfortable writing up ledgers and books, keeping manual accounts may be a simpler option.
Do I need to use accounting software?
Not all businesses will benefit from using accounting software. However, you can't successfully manage your business without some sort of an accounting system. Whether you choose manual over computerised accounting, it's entirely up to you. See how to keep business accounts.
Small or new businesses are probably likely to use manual accounts or a combination of manual and computerised systems until their accounting needs become more complex. You can use our accounting requirements checklist to help you assess and prioritise your accounting needs.
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Types of accounting software
Understand the different types of accounting software, from free software and small business packages, to cloud accounting and enterprise-level software.
Accounting software allows you to monitor and manage the financial health of your business. Many different types of accounting packages are available on the market, with options to suit different business sizes, sectors, industries and even work processes.
Free accounting software
It is possible to get small business accounting software for free. However, free software often comes with limitations - for example, disruptive advertising or locked access to advanced features that are bundled into paid tiers.
If you're not sure which accounting software to use, freeware may allow you to try out different products without having to commit. It can also help you familiarise yourself with using different features so you have a better idea of what type of product you might need.
Small business accounting software
Small business accounting software typically provides all the basic bookkeeping features like invoicing, payroll, reporting and more. These are usually simple programs, easy to use, available off-the-shelf or over the internet. They may have different tiered price plans, providing more functionality for additional fees.
Some small business accounting packages may allow you to integrate them with other services you use in your business, for example, job scheduling or online payments. Other solutions may allow you to create customised functions or modules to fit your specific needs.
Enterprise accounting software
Enterprise accounting software is a package of programmes that allows an organisation to track their financial transactions and the resulting data.
These types of packages are usually more expensive and offer all the standard financial tools and reports, as well as a wider range of features and functions. For example, they will often integrate:
- billing
- purchasing
- reconciliation
- supply chain software
- inventory control
- customer relationship management
- business intelligence through analytics and dashboards
Enterprise-level software commonly features industry-specific modules, eg for construction or manufacturing. Keep in mind that advanced features come at a higher price, so unless you run a complex operation or have very specific business needs, investing in such software may not be worth your while.
Online accounting software
Both free and paid for accounting software may be hosted online or on remote servers in the cloud. Such products offer accounting capabilities in a way that is similar to Software as a Service (SaaS) business model.
Online accounting software usually offers great flexibility and cost benefits. It frees you from having to install and maintain software on your premises and allows you to access your data and your services from remote offices or on the go. However, due to their nature, online accounting software systems pose certain risks, in particular to:
- data protection
- portability of your data
- business continuity options
- service level agreements around service provision
- reliance on internet access and connectivity
If you're considering cloud computing, read about the advantages and disadvantages of SaaS.
Within all the different categories of accounting packages, you can choose from many different options. It is important to choose a solution that fits your business needs. Avoid paying for extra features if you don't need them and, if possible, check trial versions first to make sure that the software meets your expectations.
Find software compatible with Making Tax Digital
All VAT-registered businesses should now be signed up for Making Tax Digital for VAT. If you're not signed up, HM Revenue & Customs will sign you up automatically unless you are exempt or have applied for exemption.
You should now keep VAT records and submit VAT Returns using compatible software. This may be:
- record-keeping software that updates and stores your records digitally and works directly with HMRC systems allowing you to file a VAT Return
- bridging software which works with non-compatible software like spreadsheets, accounting systems and other digital bookkeeping products and lets you send the required information digitally to HMRC in the correct format
If you haven't got it already, search for compatible software to ensure you can meet your Making Tax Digital obligations.
See more on choosing the right accounting package.
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Choosing the right accounting package
How to choose the right accounting package for your business and assess your needs and requirements for accounting software.
Finding the best accounting software that will deliver on all your business needs isn't always easy. Here are some things to consider:
- Is the software built for a particular size of business? For example, a micro business' needs will usually be different from those of a large company.
- Is the software a good fit for your specific industry or business sector?
- How much does it cost and are there any add-on expenses for maintaining the software?
- What features does the software offer? Can you customise it if the basic components don't fit your specific needs?
- Will the software help you comply with statutory requirements, such as audit trails, tax returns or annual accounts?
- Is the software accredited as compliant with all the necessary services? For example, the HMRC's Making Tax Digital for VAT or the PAYE recognition scheme.
- What support is available for the setup, staff training and running and maintenance of the system, and at what cost?
- What security measures are in place to back up data and keep business and customer information safe?
- Is your accountant familiar with the software and is the software itself compatible with the accountant's package? If you're working with an accountant to submit your business accounts, you will most likely want to be able to exchange accounts data electronically.
To help you search for the right software, HMRC offers two tools: find payroll software that is recognised by HMRC and find software for Making Tax Digital for VAT.
Define your business requirements
Once you determine what package options are available, you should define your business requirements and needs, and match them to the existing packages. To assist you with this, we have developed two resources:
- an accounting requirements checklist - to help you assess your business' basic accounting needs
- a list of key features of accounting packages - to help you understand the different tasks accounting software packages can carry out
If your business needs are complex or industry-specific tasks, see specialised requirements for your accounting package.
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Accounting requirements checklist
A checklist to help you work out your business' basic accounting needs before selecting an accounts package.
Keeping good accounts is vital for the health and survival of your business. In order to assess what your business' accounting requirements are, it may be helpful to consider the following:
- Is your business a limited company or do you operate as a sole trader? Sole traders may be able to use a personal accounts package rather than a business package, as they are unlikely to need payroll processing.
- Do you have to comply with Making Tax Digital for VAT? All VAT-registered businesses should now be signed up for Making Tax Digital for VAT. If you're not signed up, HM Revenue & Customs will sign you up automatically unless you are exempt or have applied for exemption. You should now keep VAT records and submit VAT Returns using compatible software.
- Do you have employees? If so, you may want an accounting package with a payroll function rather than separate payroll software. You may need to file certain PAYE returns online, so check that the software can handle e-filing and meets the HM Revenue & Customs payroll standard.
- What is the number of transactions that you expect to do in a month? If less than ten, you may find that a manual accounts system will be the best choice. If more than ten, you may need to select a package designed for higher levels of activity.
- What is the number of users of the accounts package at any given time? If one person does all the accounts work, a simple low-cost package may suffice. However, if several people are entering transactions at the same time, you will need something more sophisticated.
- What computer systems do you use? Most businesses use personal computers with a Windows Operating System and there is a wide range of accounts software for this platform. If you use Macintosh or Linux, your choice of software may be restricted and you may need to consider using a Windows-based PC just for the accounts package. Some applications rely on additional software to link a Macintosh computer to a Windows-based PC.
When you've worked out your business' basic accounting needs, you may want to consider any specialised requirements for your accounting package.
How to prioritise your business' accounting needs
When you are looking at your accounting needs, it is unlikely that a single software package will tick every box on your list. You may need to prioritise features that are essential to your core requirements. To help you do this, think about:
- how much time and cost a particular feature will save you
- what are the consequences of omitting the feature
- could you add the feature on in the future
- how your requirements are likely to change in the future
You could give each detailed feature a rating, for example:
- must have - without this feature the package is not usable
- advantageous - the feature would save a lot of time
- nice to have - useful, but not essential
This will allow you to compare your requirements against each accounting package. If the package doesn't meet your basic or 'must have' business requirements, discard it. From the rest, select the one that delivers the greatest number of advantageous and 'nice to have' features at a price your business can afford.
See also how to choose software for your business.
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Key features of accounting packages
Understand the key features of accounting software, and how they could meet your business' specific needs and requirements.
There are many types of accounting packages for business, with many different features and key functionalities. The software you should consider will depend on the type of business you have and how you run it.
Ideally, you should look for an accounts package that can meet all your basic business needs as well as detailed requirements. To help you work out your basic needs, see our accounting requirements checklist.
Detailed requirements for accounting packages
Requirements you may want to consider include:
- Basic bookkeeping - eg sales and purchase ledgers, nominal ledger and invoicing.
- Ability to keep digital records for Making Tax Digital for VAT purposes.
- VAT calculations - your accounts system should be able to keep track of VAT and calculate your VAT payment at the end of each VAT period.
- Payroll processing - if you have employees, consider a payroll function that calculates PAYE (Pay As You Earn) and National Insurance contributions weekly or monthly.
- Automatisation of management reports - you may need to prepare internal management reports periodically, and a system that gives regular management accounts will help improve business efficiency.
- Invoicing - any accounts package needs to be able to produce invoices, but you will probably want to be able to customise them and you may want to send them by email.
- Credit control - an accounts package can help by highlighting where customers have exceeded their limits and providing statements to chase them.
- Compatibility with other computer systems - including accounts system used by your accountant, as well as stock control systems, an e-commerce website or customer relationship management systems.
- Industry accreditation - from an independent industry body such as the Business Application Software Developers Association.
If your business needs are more complex, see also specialised requirements for your accounting package.
If you are struggling to find the right accounting package, it might be worth asking for advice, or finding out how others in your industry computerise their accounts.
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Specialised requirements for your accounting package
Tailored accounts packages can include specialised features, such as VAT schemes, stock control and electronic payment features.
When choosing an accounts package for your business, you may find that general-purpose applications don't entirely fit your requirements. Depending on how complex your needs are, you may need to consider:
- software with integrated or add-on modules for specific tasks, eg project accounting
- industry-specific solutions
- custom-built solutions
Some of the more common specialised features in accounting software are listed below. You can get accounts packages with all of these features if you need them, but the cost is likely to be higher.
Specialised VAT schemes
There are a number of these, the most familiar of which is the Cash Accounting Scheme where you pay VAT when your invoices have been paid. There are others such as the Flat Rate and Retail Schemes. If you use any of these schemes you should look for a package that supports them.
Foreign currency
If you buy and sell in foreign currencies your accounts may be more complex. You can purchase accounts packages that fully support foreign currencies, but these tend to be designed and priced for larger businesses. You can still operate with a cheaper package, but you will have to do more of the work manually.
Stock control
If your business sells products rather than services and you have a high turnover of sales, you may benefit from integrating your stock control function with your accounts.
Retail point-of-sale
If you have a high volume of small value sales, eg if you have a shop, you should look for an accounts system that supports this type of operation.
Electronic payments
There are significant benefits in paying invoices online using electronic funds transfer. Some accounts packages support this capability in an integrated fashion. If this would deliver significant benefits for your business it is worth investigating how the packages work and the costs that apply to this type of service.
Integration with other IT systems
You may wish to integrate your accounting software with your other software such as customer relationship management or e-commerce website. For example, you may want online financial transactions to be recorded directly to your accounting software.
To help you work out your business' accounting needs, see also our accounting requirements checklist.
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Implementation checklist for new accounting package
How to set up your accounts package and develop a software implementation plan for your business.
There are many approaches to setting up a new accounting package and making it work for your business. Most begin with careful planning and analysis of critical steps that you need to carry out for a successful implementation of the package.
Accounting software implementation checklist
Your implementation plan should consider the following:-
Step 1: Package installation
This will usually be in the form of a CD-Rom, or via internet if hosted in the cloud, and may require you to register the package with the supplier so it is fully licensed and works correctly. Depending on the complexity of the package, the supplier may install it for you.
Step 2: Initial company setup
You will need to enter details of your business including the year-end date, the form of VAT accounting you use and other details. Your accounts package may have several different Charts of Accounts - ie the headings you use in your accounts - so you can choose to suit your type of business. However, you may need to tailor this to your requirements. Your accountant should be able to advise you on this work, or undertake it for you. See how to choose an accountant.
Step 3: Parallel running
You may find it useful to run your old accounts and the new package alongside each other for a while to ensure that you are getting the correct results. However, it is difficult to maintain parallel running for very long because of the duplication of effort.
Step 4: Training
The staff who will work with the accounts package on a day-to-day basis should ideally have some formal training. You should time this training so that it is done shortly before the installation of the software.
Step 5: Support
It is a good idea to purchase a support agreement from your supplier for your new accounts package, at least for the first year of operation so that you have a readily available contact to help sort out queries and problems. Many small businesses find that a support agreement is a good investment even after this initial period.
For more best practice tips, see also software installation and maintenance.
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Cloud hosting
In this guide:
- Website hosting options
- What is website hosting?
- Factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider
- Difference between a domain and web hosting
- Pros and cons of using ISP for hosting
- Pros and cons of in-house hosting
- How to host your own business website
- Cloud hosting
- Website hosting and management
What is website hosting?
How does web hosting work and what's involved in getting your small business website online.
The term 'web hosting' mostly refers to companies renting out their web servers to businesses or individuals who wish to make their websites available on the internet.
What does it mean to host a site?
Hosting involves storing and maintaining files that make up a particular website on a web server that is connected to the internet 24/7. These can be HTML documents, images, audio, video and other types of files that, when viewed over the internet, deliver your website to its visitors.
The web server gives each hosted website a unique internet protocol (IP) address. This enables visitors to use the website's address (ie the domain name) to find and access the site via an internet browser. Read about the difference between a domain and web hosting.
Types of web hosting
There are three ways for a business to operate a website. You can:
- host it on your own server in-house
- outsource it to an external hosting provider
- host the website on a server owned and operated by an internet service provider (ISP)
Hosting your own web server in-house can be expensive and requires significant resources and technical knowledge. Alternatively, you can buy a hosting service from an external provider, such as an internet service provider.
Types of web hosting services
If you are thinking of hosting your website externally, you will generally have a choice between three types of web servers:
- shared
- dedicated
- virtual, including cloud hosting
As well as the server space, some web hosting services can also provide value-added services, such as:
- easy-to-use website building tools
- site statistics
- search engine optimisation features
- shopping carts
- one-click app installers
- unlimited number of email addresses
- customer support
- other control, maintenance and safety features
How much does it cost to host a website?
If you are a sole trader or a small business, it is possible to host a basic website on a free web host. However, there may be significant risks involved with the free service you receive as free web hosts typically have more frequent 'down time' than their commercial counterparts.
If you run a web-based business, or if having a website is important to your operations, a commercial web host may be a better choice. The average costs of commercial web hosting plans vary, depending on the:
- hosting provider
- the service they provide as part of the package
- the size of your website
- the expected traffic to your website
- whether you need email addresses
- whether you need e-commerce functionality, etc
With many hosting options available, it can be difficult to know what to look for. There are many factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider.
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Factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider
Key considerations when choosing a web hosting plan include your website's functionality, performance and reliability.
There are many different factors to consider when looking for a web host. The most important ones relate to your website's functionality, performance and reliability. Each of these can significantly affect the success of your site.
Website functionality
The functionality of a website largely depends on the software used. It can determine:
- the range of features it offers
- the ways in which it presents content to the user
- how the content is kept fresh and updated
When choosing a web host, make sure that the provider can support the applications, the specific scripts or software your website will be using.
Unless you have in-house expertise, you may need advice from your internet service provider or website designer. You should follow best practice in web design.
Website performance
To perform well, your website will need a fast connection to the internet. The speed of the connection will depend on the available bandwidth. If your connection is not fast enough, users will only be able to access your web pages slowly. This can cause particular problems if many users are trying to access your site at the same time. Most external hosting services refer to this as the 'backbone' - the speed of connection into their servers.
Type of web server
Your choice of web server is another key consideration when choosing a web host, as it will also affect the performance of your site. You can either go for:
- a dedicated server - where only your site is hosted on the machine
- a shared hosting service - where you share the machine with other sites
Shared hosting can negatively affect the speed and availability of your website. The server specification will be a critical factor in the performance of the site in this case - specifically the processor speed and the disk space needed for the website to operate effectively. See the pros and cons of using ISP for hosting.
Website reliability
Your website should be available 24/7 - you will need to maintain and support it. The more you rely on your website, the less you can afford to wait until the following morning to fix critical problems.
Website hosting security
Security is an ongoing concern on the internet, so any hosting solution you choose should demonstrate that it is secure and able to withstand hackers, fraudsters and other attacks.
Your web host should, at the very least, offer:
- backups and restore points - stored securely away from the main server
- disaster recovery plans - to help you recover your website in case of system failures
- network monitoring - to spot unusual activity and mitigate risks
- firewalls - including other basic intrusion prevention methods
- antivirus and malware scanning and removal
- SSL (secure sockets layer) certificates, if you need to transfer sensitive data such as online payments to and from the server
- some level of management support - most crucially with file management, access and user permissions, logins, applications, software updates, etc
You should ensure that the web host follows other best practices to protect your business online.
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Difference between a domain and web hosting
Understand the difference between a domain name and web hosting, and how they make your website accessible to your customers.
To set up a website, you will need both a domain name and a web host. These are closely connected, but entirely different things - you will need both if you want to make your website accessible to the public.
What is a domain name?
Your domain name is the name of your website or your URL. For example, www(dot)mynewbusiness(dot)com.
You can buy a domain name by going to a domain name registrar. Buying a domain name secures only that specific internet address. It doesn't give you the space on which to host your website. A domain name on its own won't make your website 'live' and available on the internet.
Difference between a website and a domain
For customers to access your website, the files that make it up (eg text and images) have to be stored on a web host - a computer server with high-speed 24/7 internet access.
The server assigns a unique internet protocol (IP) address to the hosted site. This is typically a string of numbers, not decipherable to humans. A domain name is a human-friendly way to identify an IP address of a particular website over the internet.
What is an IP address used for?
When your customers type your domain name into their web browser, it translates the domain name into the relevant IP address and sends a request to the web host server to bring up your website's files on their screen. This is essentially how your customers are able to view your website. So, for your website to be available online, you have to have both a domain name, as well as a hosted website.
If you have yet to choose your business domain name, there is a lot to think through - from the different types of domain names to trade marking considerations.
If you have a domain name but are looking for hosting, see factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider.
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Pros and cons of using ISP for hosting
How to use an internet service provider to host your website, and assess the benefits of shared vs dedicated hosting.
Using an internet service provider (ISP) for web hosting is an external hosting solution where the ISP is responsible for ensuring that your website is connected to the internet 24/7.
ISPs can provide different types of web hosting services, including:
- shared server hosting
- dedicated hosting
- co-location hosting
Shared server hosting
With this type of hosting, the ISP owns the server, which is located in its offices. The ISP uses this server to host several other websites as well as yours. Shared server hosting is cost-effective, but may not be an option if you want to use complex technologies such as databases, secure certificates and tools that enable you to customise webpages for different users.
Dedicated hosting
With dedicated hosting, your website is the only one hosted on a particular server. This option suits large websites with high user traffic, or those requiring special software or particularly high levels of security. While this approach offers the most powerful and secure solution, it is more expensive.
Co-location hosting
With co-location, you place your own server that you own or rent at the premises of the ISP to take advantage of their better technical infrastructure. With this option, you are generally responsible for maintaining the actual data and the website components.
See other factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider.
Advantages of using an ISP for hosting
- You do not need to invest in your own web server.
- Most ISPs have very fast connections to the internet.
- The ISP's server should offer a very high degree of availability (up time) and reliability.
- The ISP should have a secure operating environment, high-quality virus protection and the latest software patches to ensure the security of your site.
Disadvantages of using an ISP for hosting
- You need to trust your ISP to maintain the availability and security of your website.
- If the ISP is hosting too many other sites on a shared server, this may compromise your website's performance.
- If the ISP gets blacklisted (eg because of hosting adult content sites or spam sites), this can directly affect you. For example, you may find that your IP address is on various spam blacklists. This can cause your emails to be filtered out and junked or you may not be able to register with certain services, websites, forums, etc.
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Pros and cons of in-house hosting
Advantages and disadvantages of hosting your business website in-house, and resources needed to maintain your own web servers.
If you are setting up a corporate website, you will need to choose between outsourcing your hosting or hosting the site internally. Both approaches have pros and cons. You will need to weigh them up carefully to ensure that you choose the right fit for your business.
In-house hosting vs outsourcing
Outsourcing to an external web host may be an attractive proposition if you need an 'off the shelf' solution, or lack the skills and infrastructure internally to carry out the necessary work.
Typically, small and medium-size businesses prefer to contract out their hosting to either a specialist provider or an internet service provider (ISP). See pros and cons of using ISP for hosting.
In-house hosting may be a good choice for businesses large enough to have the expertise and the financial resources to ensure security and smooth operation of the hosting equipment and systems.
Not only will you need a web server, but you'll also require a high-speed connection to the internet, and you will be directly responsible for its day-to-day operation and 24-hour support. You will also have to take into account the cost of maintenance and software licences. See how to host your own business website.
Advantages of the in-house web hosting
- You have full control over access to the website.
- The choice of hardware, including the ease and expandability of upgrades, is yours.
- You also have control over the operating environment - the software and systems that run on the web server.
- You can manage web storage space and performance more effectively.
- You are not contractually or legally bound to use a specific provider.
Disadvantages of the in-house web hosting
- The cost of buying your own web server hardware, associated software and high-speed internet connectivity (typically using a dedicated connection).
- The technical skills you or your staff will require in order to develop, maintain and upgrade the website, and to keep up to date with the latest technical developments.
- The resources needed to provide round-the-clock support for the website in order to ensure its availability for users.
- The need for specialist security expertise in employing tools and techniques to maintain the security of your website.
If you're considering hosting your website internally, make sure that you can:
- provide 24-hour support internally on an ongoing basis
- build an in-house IT team with the right set of specialist skills to maintain the system
- implement appropriate monitoring systems and procedures
- take immediate and effective action when problems occur
If you're unable to guarantee this, a hosted option may be cheaper and less risky. See factors to consider when choosing a web hosting provider.
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How to host your own business website
What hardware, software and other resources will you need to host your own business website.
You can use an internet service provider (ISP) to host a simple website without worrying too much about the underlying technologies. However, if you want to host the website yourself, you will need to understand what's involved and what operating systems, software and applications you may need.
Server operating systems
There are three core operating systems that enable web servers to run. These are:
- Windows Servers
- Unix
- Linux
Email
This can be provided by your hosting company, but often businesses choose to outsource this to a dedicated email provider such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, formerly known as G Suite for business.
Web server software
This software sits on top of the operating system and runs the web hosting services. It deals with all elements of hosting the web pages, including requests from visitors to view them, and running programs or scripts. The most common types of web server software are:
- Apache
- Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS)
Web Authoring languages
These are the software languages used to develop applications on the website. Examples include:
- HTML (HyperText Markup Language) - a programming language used in the creation of simple web pages
- CGI (Common Gateway Interface) scripts - used to produce dynamic and interactive web pages, eg JSP, PHP, ASP, Cold Fusion and Perl
Application development tools
These are types of web editor software used to design and develop web pages, and incorporate features such as graphics, multimedia and user interactivity. Examples include Microsoft Expression, Adobe Dreamweaver and Adobe Flash.
Databases
Database technologies can store large quantities of information that can be used to update information on your website. The solutions available to you will depend upon the volume of information you wish to hold and the likely web traffic that the system will have to support. Examples of high volume, high-traffic database systems include:
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Oracle
- PostgreSQL
- MySQL
E-commerce
You can use a range of e-commerce software packages for the development of an e-commerce site. See how to set up an online shop with an e-commerce package.
Upgrade path
As your business expands and your website grows, it's important to have a plan for upgrading your hosting. There will often be additional costs and functionality required specific to the type of web application you are hosting. Sometimes it will be necessary to change your hosting arrangements to accommodate these additional requirements.
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Cloud hosting
What is cloud hosting, what are the advantages of hosting your website on cloud servers, and the risks involved.
With traditional web hosting, you buy or rent a physical machine - a server - that gives you resources like memory and processing speed. With cloud hosting, you are effectively renting virtual hardware and server space for your website.
How does cloud hosting work?
Cloud hosting uses the resources of a number of virtual servers to accommodate all the aspects of hosting your site. These resources are utilised as and when needed. You only pay for what you use and, because you can access these resources at any time, you don't need to pay for additional capacity.
Is the cloud a server?
The cloud itself is not a server. A server is physical hardware - dedicated entirely to your business or shared with others. A cloud server is a logical server that is built, hosted and delivered through the cloud. It has similar capabilities to a typical physical server, but it resides in a virtualised environment and is managed by your cloud hosting provider.
You can choose from several types of cloud services for full or partial hosting. The cloud option reduces costs of buying hardware and paying IT staff, and allows smaller businesses to share advanced IT resources.
Problems with cloud web hosting
You may experience several possible issues with cloud hosting:
Connectivity
You will need a fast internet connection to allow you to use cloud solutions. If you will mainly be using these at your business premises, you may need to check what internet connection speed is available, and what contingency plans are in place if connectivity is lost. See more on choosing a business broadband connection.
Cost of ownership
Cloud services are often delivered as a software as a service model, usually in the form of a monthly cost. Some companies prefer this from a cash flow perspective. You should consider the cost of cloud services over a period of three years to allow you to compare cloud products with more traditional software products.
Service level agreement
Check the conditions of your service level agreement, what happens if something goes wrong, who is liable for putting them right, and what are the timescales for fixing the issue.
Data security
It is important to understand the security of your data, including where the data will be stored and whether it will be encrypted. See how to comply with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).
To find out if cloud hosting is a good option for your business, read about the advantages of cloud computing and find tips for moving your business to the cloud.
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Website hosting and management
Customer support, content maintenance, server security and other features you may want to factor into choosing a web host.
Finding the best servers to host your website on can be daunting. There are many things to consider, not least:
- the type of site you wish to build
- how to manage it
- whether to host it in-house or on externally
As well as this, you should also think about server upgrades, monitoring and security, content management, and customer service. Read more on choosing a web hosting provider.
Server security
Websites can come under threat from hackers, viruses and other types of cyber attacks. If you are hosting your website in-house, you will need to put your own security measures in place.
If you use third-party hosting services, server security will generally be their responsibility. Look for assurances that they are running firewalls and malware detection, and monitor their servers for unusual activity. See more on cyber security for business.
Server upgrades and monitoring
You should monitor the web server performance - including its central processing unit, memory, disk usage, network performance and backup utilities. From time to time, you will also need to install new versions of the server software or upgrade hardware components.
If downtime is needed for updates, try to restrict these to overnight or when minimum disruption is likely for your customers. If you host your website externally, the provider will generally be responsible for upgrades and monitoring server performance.
Content management
Content management systems (CMS) allow authorised users across your business to easily add or modify web content without the assistance of specialist web staff or extensive technical knowledge. When choosing a hosting provider, keep in mind that the host should support whatever CMS you wish to use with your site. Read more about content management systems.
Tech support
Customer service is essential in web hosting. Even the best host can't guarantee a 100 per cent uptime, so it is inevitable that technical issues may turn up. Before this happens, you will want to know:
- what support channels the host offers, eg live chat, phone, email
- when is the support available, eg 24/7 or during business hours
- is there a limit to the support you can get as part of the package
See how to choose an IT supplier for your business.
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Broadband security and your business
What is broadband?
An introduction to broadband internet technologies, and how they work to enable online connectivity.
Broadband is a general term for a permanent, high-speed connection to the internet. It describes any telecommunications technology that allows for a transfer of large amounts of data using either:
- fixed telephone lines, eg DSL (digital subscriber line), cable and fibre optic technologies
- wireless access, eg Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Max, mobile and satellite technologies
Is broadband Wi-Fi?
No. Broadband is a term for a fast connection to the internet. Broadband can use wired or wireless technology.
Wi-Fi is simply a means of getting broadband without having to connect through wires. It uses radio wave technology as an alternative to network cables to provide connectivity.
How does broadband work?
A broadband connection, like a telephone line, is 'always on'. This means that, once you have switched on your computer or mobile device, you are connected and you can access the internet at any time.
Unlike the traditional 'dial-up' method, which has become largely redundant, broadband doesn't affect the phone line. This means that you are free to receive and make calls while online.
Most commonly, broadband is provided over your phone line, via cable or via satellite. You can also have broadband access via mobile networks. Read about the different types of broadband connections.
How much does broadband cost?
Broadband packages vary greatly, depending on the provider, the location of your premises and the services you need.
Normally, you pay a standard monthly fee to your provider for unlimited internet access, although certain broadband products may offer pay-as-you-go access.
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Types of broadband connections
An overview of the most common types of broadband connections, and the options available to your business.
There are several types of broadband connections available. The location of your business may determine the type of connection you can access.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line)
ADSL is a common broadband technology available in the UK but, where available, it is being replaced with faster Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the premises (FTTP) internet connections. ADSL uses existing analogue telephone lines and can deliver download speeds from 0.5 Mbps up to 24 Mbps. Maximum upload speeds generally range from 0.25Mbps up to 1Mbps.
The exact speed of ADSL connection will depend on:
- length and quality of the phone line between your premises and the telephone exchange
- if the exchange has been upgraded to offer newer, faster services
If you are a small office or sole trader, a basic business ADSL line may be enough to meet your needs. Growing businesses or those relying on, for example, online sales or cloud storage, may want to consider faster connections such as fibre broadband for business.
Cable broadband
Broadband services are often available via cable TV operators using high-speed fibre optic networks. Most cable companies offer bundled packages that include telephone, broadband connection and TV channels.
Wireless access
In areas where broadband is not possible via telephone or cable, it may be available using wireless technology. Local Wi-Fi hotspots are common in airports, hotels, cafes, pubs and motorway service stations. Some operators also offer mobile phone style 'roaming' facilities.
Worldwide interoperability for microwave access (Wi-max) is a fast-emerging alternative to Wi-Fi and makes it possible to provide broadband to areas where other technology is unsuitable.
Satellite broadband
Businesses in remote areas where ADSL, cable or wireless are not possible can access the internet by satellite. Download and upload speeds may vary, but faster speeds and more competitive deals are increasingly becoming available. There are also new satellite internet services using clusters of low earth orbiting satellites offering fast speeds and low latency.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband enables you to wirelessly connect a portable computer to the internet using the 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network. Mobile broadband can be useful for those working on the move. However, download speeds can be slow and coverage is not universal, especially in rural areas.
Leased lines
Larger businesses or those with specialist data needs may want to think about a dedicated 'point-to-point' leased line connection. This can provide higher bandwidths for both uploading and downloading, and better security and privacy over a line used exclusively by the purchasing business.
Each type of connection has its advantages and disadvantages. You should consider your options carefully and think about:
- your location, as not all broadband deals will be available in your area
- your current and future usage needs, including bandwidth and speed
- your budget, including setup fees, monthly line rental and contract terms and fees
Read about the advantages of business broadband.
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Advantages of business broadband
What are the benefits of business broadband, and how can the right broadband package improve the running of your business.
If you are running a small business or working from home, you may be using your home broadband connection to get on the internet. Business packages are often more reliable and may offer more security if internet access is critical to your business.
Business broadband vs home broadband
Business broadband often offers:
- better data transfer capabilities - eg more generous or unlimited upload and download allowances, and higher upload speeds than home broadband
- faster connection speeds - some packages offer priority to business users over the network at peak times
- lower contention ratio - ie the number of other internet users sharing a server with you is generally lower allowing for greater connection speeds
- greater efficiency - eg streamlining and automating online tasks, such as linking your online shop with the stock control system, transaction processing, order tracking and stock reordering
- static IP addresses - needed for businesses looking to host their own servers, eg for emails, CCTV systems, website hosting or remote connections via the internet
- tech support - eg service level agreements guaranteeing fix time and priority engineer support
- additional services - tailored to specific needs of your business, eg email services, data management, upgrades, backup plans, recovery, cloud services, etc
Other benefits of business broadband
Business broadband usually costs more than home packages. However, it is worth weighing the cost against the advantages. A reliable, robust connection can:
- get you closer to your customers and suppliers, with round-the-clock access to account information, order status and project details
- enable you to respond to customers' email queries or website orders within minutes
- ensure that communications channels, such as email and video conferencing systems, remain open between you and your staff
A broadband connection that suits the particular needs of your business can help you become more flexible and more able to adapt to your staff, customer and supplier needs.
If you're not sure which internet access technology would be best suited to your business, read about the different types of broadband connections.
If you think you may not require a specialised business broadband connection, an alternative may be using home broadband for business.
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Fibre broadband for business
What is fibre optic broadband, and what types of fibre broadband connections are available to your business.
Fibre broadband uses the latest fibre optic technology to provide faster speeds and more reliable internet service.
Types of fibre broadband connections
There are generally two types of fibre broadband connections:
Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) speed
FTTC uses fibre optic cable to connect the telephone exchange or distribution point to your phone line in the street cabinet that serves your premises. From the cabinet, your signal travels to your premises via traditional copper lines.
FTTC can typically achieve maximum 80Mbps download speeds, and 20Mbps upload speeds, although the actual maximum speed of your connection will depend on the length of your phone line to the street cabinet.
Fibre to the premises (FTTP) speed
FTTP connections provide end-to-end fibre optic connection from the exchange or the service provider's fibre network to your premises. They can deliver the fastest speeds, reaching download speeds of 1000Mbps and upload speeds of 300Mbps or more. They are usually limited to premises near the telephone exchange or fibre network. The main telecom operators in NI have plans to significantly increase availability of FTTP across NI so it is always worth checking availability.
G.Fast
At present, only a small number of providers offer packages using the hybrid G.Fast technology as it is only available to a limited number of FTTC subscribers around the UK.
G.Fast uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to the street cabinets, where a device is fitted that increases the maximum broadband speed users can get via their existing copper cables to be greater speeds than standard FTTC technology.
G.Fast can deliver speeds of up to 330Mbps download and 50Mbps upload, depending on the length and quality of the phone line between the premises at the street cabinet. It operates best over a short run of copper cable, ideally less than 350 meters from the cabinet.
Benefits of fibre broadband to business
With faster speeds and increased reliability, fibre broadband connections can make your business run more efficiently and be more profitable. It can help you:
- Get more done. Faster speeds mean you and your staff can do more bandwidth-heavy tasks simultaneously (eg send and receive large files, images and video) without experiencing slowdowns.
- Reach new markets. Fast, reliable speeds make online marketing easier and enable you to instantly communicate with customers in your area and across the world using social media, email marketing or via an online shop hosted on your website.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Connect with customers and suppliers quicker and in new ways, eg through VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony and video conferencing.
- Make use of cloud computing. Take advantage of hosted applications, such as instant data backups, to reduce equipment, software and licensing costs. Pay only for what you use.
- Work remotely. Work from home or on the go, with the same efficiency as if you were working from the office.
- Cut costs. Online data storage can save you space and money on physical storage systems
Find superfast fibre broadband providers in Northern Ireland.
Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
The government is providing voucher funding to help eligible businesses experiencing slow broadband speeds in rural areas. The vouchers are worth up to £4,500 to help cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. Read more about the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/fibre-broadband-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
Difference between business broadband and home broadband, and advantages of using home broadband for your business.
Not every business requires a specialised business broadband connection. Some may be able to use their home broadband service, especially if their requirements are limited.
Broadband products are generally similar for domestic and corporate users. They rely on the same technology and infrastructure, but commercial businesses typically have different needs to the average domestic user.
It is important to consider your specific needs and the type and nature of your business when you're choosing a broadband package for your company.
Do I need business broadband?
If you're working from home temporarily or occasionally, in most cases your normal home broadband should be sufficient.
However, keep in mind that a home broadband package is designed for personal use. It often comes with a number of restrictions that businesses may find disadvantageous.
If you are a small business, a start-up or a sole trader, and you are working from home more permanently, a home broadband package would only be a suitable option if:
- you don't use the internet frequently and at very specific times
- internet access is not vital to your business operations
- any 'downtime' or 'slowdown' would not significantly affect the survival or profitability of your business
- you don't need large data transfers (eg uploading or downloading of large files) to conduct their business operations
If you are a larger business, or a small business relying on a dependable, secure internet connection, then business broadband might be a better option for you.
Key reasons for getting business broadband
Business packages generally offer faster connection speeds, greater data transfer allowances, static IP addresses and usually more service reliability with better service level targets.
These features may come at a greater price, but they may help you run your business more efficiently. Read more on the advantages of business broadband.
Claiming business expenses if you're using home broadband
If you use home broadband for your business, you may be able to reclaim some cost if:
- you use it for business purposes
- the broadband contract is undertaken in the name of your company
- the service is provided at home but paid for directly by the company
However, you are unlikely to be able to seek reimbursement if:
- you already have a broadband account in your personal name
- you are already paying for the connection
- you cannot split the business and personal use each month
Find out more about reimbursing broadband internet charges.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/using-home-broadband-business
Links
Broadband security and your business
An overview of the threats to your broadband, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks to your business.
Broadband provides an 'always-on' connection. This increases the security risks that your business network or equipment could become exposed to, such as viruses or hackers.
These risks could potentially be disastrous for your business. They could compromise your critical data, and lead to loss or theft of valuable information.
Is business broadband more secure than home broadband?
Business broadband packages most often come with better security options and more proactive measures than home broadband, to ensure that your data and network remain secure. Your internet service provider (ISP) can include, as an integral part of their offering, a range of security systems such as:
- network-wide email screening service
- anti-virus / anti-malware software and hardware firewall to intercept malicious attacks
- off-site data backup solution
Find out more about common network security issues.
How to secure your broadband connection
You can take some basic steps to reduce the risks to your broadband. For example, you can:
- install additional security software or an enhanced hardware firewall to your system
- keep your operating system, firewall, virus protection and other software up to date
- draw up and enforce policies for employee email/internet use
You should check which security options are available to you as part of your package, or at additional cost, from your ISP. Alternatively, you can consult an independent security expert.
You can also read more about securing your wireless network and find out how to protect your business online.
ActionsAlso on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/broadband-security-and-your-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
What is broadband?
An introduction to broadband internet technologies, and how they work to enable online connectivity.
Broadband is a general term for a permanent, high-speed connection to the internet. It describes any telecommunications technology that allows for a transfer of large amounts of data using either:
- fixed telephone lines, eg DSL (digital subscriber line), cable and fibre optic technologies
- wireless access, eg Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Max, mobile and satellite technologies
Is broadband Wi-Fi?
No. Broadband is a term for a fast connection to the internet. Broadband can use wired or wireless technology.
Wi-Fi is simply a means of getting broadband without having to connect through wires. It uses radio wave technology as an alternative to network cables to provide connectivity.
How does broadband work?
A broadband connection, like a telephone line, is 'always on'. This means that, once you have switched on your computer or mobile device, you are connected and you can access the internet at any time.
Unlike the traditional 'dial-up' method, which has become largely redundant, broadband doesn't affect the phone line. This means that you are free to receive and make calls while online.
Most commonly, broadband is provided over your phone line, via cable or via satellite. You can also have broadband access via mobile networks. Read about the different types of broadband connections.
How much does broadband cost?
Broadband packages vary greatly, depending on the provider, the location of your premises and the services you need.
Normally, you pay a standard monthly fee to your provider for unlimited internet access, although certain broadband products may offer pay-as-you-go access.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/what-broadband
Links
Types of broadband connections
An overview of the most common types of broadband connections, and the options available to your business.
There are several types of broadband connections available. The location of your business may determine the type of connection you can access.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line)
ADSL is a common broadband technology available in the UK but, where available, it is being replaced with faster Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the premises (FTTP) internet connections. ADSL uses existing analogue telephone lines and can deliver download speeds from 0.5 Mbps up to 24 Mbps. Maximum upload speeds generally range from 0.25Mbps up to 1Mbps.
The exact speed of ADSL connection will depend on:
- length and quality of the phone line between your premises and the telephone exchange
- if the exchange has been upgraded to offer newer, faster services
If you are a small office or sole trader, a basic business ADSL line may be enough to meet your needs. Growing businesses or those relying on, for example, online sales or cloud storage, may want to consider faster connections such as fibre broadband for business.
Cable broadband
Broadband services are often available via cable TV operators using high-speed fibre optic networks. Most cable companies offer bundled packages that include telephone, broadband connection and TV channels.
Wireless access
In areas where broadband is not possible via telephone or cable, it may be available using wireless technology. Local Wi-Fi hotspots are common in airports, hotels, cafes, pubs and motorway service stations. Some operators also offer mobile phone style 'roaming' facilities.
Worldwide interoperability for microwave access (Wi-max) is a fast-emerging alternative to Wi-Fi and makes it possible to provide broadband to areas where other technology is unsuitable.
Satellite broadband
Businesses in remote areas where ADSL, cable or wireless are not possible can access the internet by satellite. Download and upload speeds may vary, but faster speeds and more competitive deals are increasingly becoming available. There are also new satellite internet services using clusters of low earth orbiting satellites offering fast speeds and low latency.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband enables you to wirelessly connect a portable computer to the internet using the 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network. Mobile broadband can be useful for those working on the move. However, download speeds can be slow and coverage is not universal, especially in rural areas.
Leased lines
Larger businesses or those with specialist data needs may want to think about a dedicated 'point-to-point' leased line connection. This can provide higher bandwidths for both uploading and downloading, and better security and privacy over a line used exclusively by the purchasing business.
Each type of connection has its advantages and disadvantages. You should consider your options carefully and think about:
- your location, as not all broadband deals will be available in your area
- your current and future usage needs, including bandwidth and speed
- your budget, including setup fees, monthly line rental and contract terms and fees
Read about the advantages of business broadband.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/types-broadband-connections
Links
Advantages of business broadband
What are the benefits of business broadband, and how can the right broadband package improve the running of your business.
If you are running a small business or working from home, you may be using your home broadband connection to get on the internet. Business packages are often more reliable and may offer more security if internet access is critical to your business.
Business broadband vs home broadband
Business broadband often offers:
- better data transfer capabilities - eg more generous or unlimited upload and download allowances, and higher upload speeds than home broadband
- faster connection speeds - some packages offer priority to business users over the network at peak times
- lower contention ratio - ie the number of other internet users sharing a server with you is generally lower allowing for greater connection speeds
- greater efficiency - eg streamlining and automating online tasks, such as linking your online shop with the stock control system, transaction processing, order tracking and stock reordering
- static IP addresses - needed for businesses looking to host their own servers, eg for emails, CCTV systems, website hosting or remote connections via the internet
- tech support - eg service level agreements guaranteeing fix time and priority engineer support
- additional services - tailored to specific needs of your business, eg email services, data management, upgrades, backup plans, recovery, cloud services, etc
Other benefits of business broadband
Business broadband usually costs more than home packages. However, it is worth weighing the cost against the advantages. A reliable, robust connection can:
- get you closer to your customers and suppliers, with round-the-clock access to account information, order status and project details
- enable you to respond to customers' email queries or website orders within minutes
- ensure that communications channels, such as email and video conferencing systems, remain open between you and your staff
A broadband connection that suits the particular needs of your business can help you become more flexible and more able to adapt to your staff, customer and supplier needs.
If you're not sure which internet access technology would be best suited to your business, read about the different types of broadband connections.
If you think you may not require a specialised business broadband connection, an alternative may be using home broadband for business.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/advantages-business-broadband
Links
Fibre broadband for business
What is fibre optic broadband, and what types of fibre broadband connections are available to your business.
Fibre broadband uses the latest fibre optic technology to provide faster speeds and more reliable internet service.
Types of fibre broadband connections
There are generally two types of fibre broadband connections:
Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) speed
FTTC uses fibre optic cable to connect the telephone exchange or distribution point to your phone line in the street cabinet that serves your premises. From the cabinet, your signal travels to your premises via traditional copper lines.
FTTC can typically achieve maximum 80Mbps download speeds, and 20Mbps upload speeds, although the actual maximum speed of your connection will depend on the length of your phone line to the street cabinet.
Fibre to the premises (FTTP) speed
FTTP connections provide end-to-end fibre optic connection from the exchange or the service provider's fibre network to your premises. They can deliver the fastest speeds, reaching download speeds of 1000Mbps and upload speeds of 300Mbps or more. They are usually limited to premises near the telephone exchange or fibre network. The main telecom operators in NI have plans to significantly increase availability of FTTP across NI so it is always worth checking availability.
G.Fast
At present, only a small number of providers offer packages using the hybrid G.Fast technology as it is only available to a limited number of FTTC subscribers around the UK.
G.Fast uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to the street cabinets, where a device is fitted that increases the maximum broadband speed users can get via their existing copper cables to be greater speeds than standard FTTC technology.
G.Fast can deliver speeds of up to 330Mbps download and 50Mbps upload, depending on the length and quality of the phone line between the premises at the street cabinet. It operates best over a short run of copper cable, ideally less than 350 meters from the cabinet.
Benefits of fibre broadband to business
With faster speeds and increased reliability, fibre broadband connections can make your business run more efficiently and be more profitable. It can help you:
- Get more done. Faster speeds mean you and your staff can do more bandwidth-heavy tasks simultaneously (eg send and receive large files, images and video) without experiencing slowdowns.
- Reach new markets. Fast, reliable speeds make online marketing easier and enable you to instantly communicate with customers in your area and across the world using social media, email marketing or via an online shop hosted on your website.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Connect with customers and suppliers quicker and in new ways, eg through VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony and video conferencing.
- Make use of cloud computing. Take advantage of hosted applications, such as instant data backups, to reduce equipment, software and licensing costs. Pay only for what you use.
- Work remotely. Work from home or on the go, with the same efficiency as if you were working from the office.
- Cut costs. Online data storage can save you space and money on physical storage systems
Find superfast fibre broadband providers in Northern Ireland.
Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
The government is providing voucher funding to help eligible businesses experiencing slow broadband speeds in rural areas. The vouchers are worth up to £4,500 to help cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. Read more about the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/fibre-broadband-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
Difference between business broadband and home broadband, and advantages of using home broadband for your business.
Not every business requires a specialised business broadband connection. Some may be able to use their home broadband service, especially if their requirements are limited.
Broadband products are generally similar for domestic and corporate users. They rely on the same technology and infrastructure, but commercial businesses typically have different needs to the average domestic user.
It is important to consider your specific needs and the type and nature of your business when you're choosing a broadband package for your company.
Do I need business broadband?
If you're working from home temporarily or occasionally, in most cases your normal home broadband should be sufficient.
However, keep in mind that a home broadband package is designed for personal use. It often comes with a number of restrictions that businesses may find disadvantageous.
If you are a small business, a start-up or a sole trader, and you are working from home more permanently, a home broadband package would only be a suitable option if:
- you don't use the internet frequently and at very specific times
- internet access is not vital to your business operations
- any 'downtime' or 'slowdown' would not significantly affect the survival or profitability of your business
- you don't need large data transfers (eg uploading or downloading of large files) to conduct their business operations
If you are a larger business, or a small business relying on a dependable, secure internet connection, then business broadband might be a better option for you.
Key reasons for getting business broadband
Business packages generally offer faster connection speeds, greater data transfer allowances, static IP addresses and usually more service reliability with better service level targets.
These features may come at a greater price, but they may help you run your business more efficiently. Read more on the advantages of business broadband.
Claiming business expenses if you're using home broadband
If you use home broadband for your business, you may be able to reclaim some cost if:
- you use it for business purposes
- the broadband contract is undertaken in the name of your company
- the service is provided at home but paid for directly by the company
However, you are unlikely to be able to seek reimbursement if:
- you already have a broadband account in your personal name
- you are already paying for the connection
- you cannot split the business and personal use each month
Find out more about reimbursing broadband internet charges.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/using-home-broadband-business
Links
Broadband security and your business
An overview of the threats to your broadband, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks to your business.
Broadband provides an 'always-on' connection. This increases the security risks that your business network or equipment could become exposed to, such as viruses or hackers.
These risks could potentially be disastrous for your business. They could compromise your critical data, and lead to loss or theft of valuable information.
Is business broadband more secure than home broadband?
Business broadband packages most often come with better security options and more proactive measures than home broadband, to ensure that your data and network remain secure. Your internet service provider (ISP) can include, as an integral part of their offering, a range of security systems such as:
- network-wide email screening service
- anti-virus / anti-malware software and hardware firewall to intercept malicious attacks
- off-site data backup solution
Find out more about common network security issues.
How to secure your broadband connection
You can take some basic steps to reduce the risks to your broadband. For example, you can:
- install additional security software or an enhanced hardware firewall to your system
- keep your operating system, firewall, virus protection and other software up to date
- draw up and enforce policies for employee email/internet use
You should check which security options are available to you as part of your package, or at additional cost, from your ISP. Alternatively, you can consult an independent security expert.
You can also read more about securing your wireless network and find out how to protect your business online.
ActionsAlso on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/broadband-security-and-your-business
Links
Fibre broadband for business
What is broadband?
An introduction to broadband internet technologies, and how they work to enable online connectivity.
Broadband is a general term for a permanent, high-speed connection to the internet. It describes any telecommunications technology that allows for a transfer of large amounts of data using either:
- fixed telephone lines, eg DSL (digital subscriber line), cable and fibre optic technologies
- wireless access, eg Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Max, mobile and satellite technologies
Is broadband Wi-Fi?
No. Broadband is a term for a fast connection to the internet. Broadband can use wired or wireless technology.
Wi-Fi is simply a means of getting broadband without having to connect through wires. It uses radio wave technology as an alternative to network cables to provide connectivity.
How does broadband work?
A broadband connection, like a telephone line, is 'always on'. This means that, once you have switched on your computer or mobile device, you are connected and you can access the internet at any time.
Unlike the traditional 'dial-up' method, which has become largely redundant, broadband doesn't affect the phone line. This means that you are free to receive and make calls while online.
Most commonly, broadband is provided over your phone line, via cable or via satellite. You can also have broadband access via mobile networks. Read about the different types of broadband connections.
How much does broadband cost?
Broadband packages vary greatly, depending on the provider, the location of your premises and the services you need.
Normally, you pay a standard monthly fee to your provider for unlimited internet access, although certain broadband products may offer pay-as-you-go access.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/what-broadband
Links
Types of broadband connections
An overview of the most common types of broadband connections, and the options available to your business.
There are several types of broadband connections available. The location of your business may determine the type of connection you can access.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line)
ADSL is a common broadband technology available in the UK but, where available, it is being replaced with faster Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the premises (FTTP) internet connections. ADSL uses existing analogue telephone lines and can deliver download speeds from 0.5 Mbps up to 24 Mbps. Maximum upload speeds generally range from 0.25Mbps up to 1Mbps.
The exact speed of ADSL connection will depend on:
- length and quality of the phone line between your premises and the telephone exchange
- if the exchange has been upgraded to offer newer, faster services
If you are a small office or sole trader, a basic business ADSL line may be enough to meet your needs. Growing businesses or those relying on, for example, online sales or cloud storage, may want to consider faster connections such as fibre broadband for business.
Cable broadband
Broadband services are often available via cable TV operators using high-speed fibre optic networks. Most cable companies offer bundled packages that include telephone, broadband connection and TV channels.
Wireless access
In areas where broadband is not possible via telephone or cable, it may be available using wireless technology. Local Wi-Fi hotspots are common in airports, hotels, cafes, pubs and motorway service stations. Some operators also offer mobile phone style 'roaming' facilities.
Worldwide interoperability for microwave access (Wi-max) is a fast-emerging alternative to Wi-Fi and makes it possible to provide broadband to areas where other technology is unsuitable.
Satellite broadband
Businesses in remote areas where ADSL, cable or wireless are not possible can access the internet by satellite. Download and upload speeds may vary, but faster speeds and more competitive deals are increasingly becoming available. There are also new satellite internet services using clusters of low earth orbiting satellites offering fast speeds and low latency.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband enables you to wirelessly connect a portable computer to the internet using the 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network. Mobile broadband can be useful for those working on the move. However, download speeds can be slow and coverage is not universal, especially in rural areas.
Leased lines
Larger businesses or those with specialist data needs may want to think about a dedicated 'point-to-point' leased line connection. This can provide higher bandwidths for both uploading and downloading, and better security and privacy over a line used exclusively by the purchasing business.
Each type of connection has its advantages and disadvantages. You should consider your options carefully and think about:
- your location, as not all broadband deals will be available in your area
- your current and future usage needs, including bandwidth and speed
- your budget, including setup fees, monthly line rental and contract terms and fees
Read about the advantages of business broadband.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/types-broadband-connections
Links
Advantages of business broadband
What are the benefits of business broadband, and how can the right broadband package improve the running of your business.
If you are running a small business or working from home, you may be using your home broadband connection to get on the internet. Business packages are often more reliable and may offer more security if internet access is critical to your business.
Business broadband vs home broadband
Business broadband often offers:
- better data transfer capabilities - eg more generous or unlimited upload and download allowances, and higher upload speeds than home broadband
- faster connection speeds - some packages offer priority to business users over the network at peak times
- lower contention ratio - ie the number of other internet users sharing a server with you is generally lower allowing for greater connection speeds
- greater efficiency - eg streamlining and automating online tasks, such as linking your online shop with the stock control system, transaction processing, order tracking and stock reordering
- static IP addresses - needed for businesses looking to host their own servers, eg for emails, CCTV systems, website hosting or remote connections via the internet
- tech support - eg service level agreements guaranteeing fix time and priority engineer support
- additional services - tailored to specific needs of your business, eg email services, data management, upgrades, backup plans, recovery, cloud services, etc
Other benefits of business broadband
Business broadband usually costs more than home packages. However, it is worth weighing the cost against the advantages. A reliable, robust connection can:
- get you closer to your customers and suppliers, with round-the-clock access to account information, order status and project details
- enable you to respond to customers' email queries or website orders within minutes
- ensure that communications channels, such as email and video conferencing systems, remain open between you and your staff
A broadband connection that suits the particular needs of your business can help you become more flexible and more able to adapt to your staff, customer and supplier needs.
If you're not sure which internet access technology would be best suited to your business, read about the different types of broadband connections.
If you think you may not require a specialised business broadband connection, an alternative may be using home broadband for business.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/advantages-business-broadband
Links
Fibre broadband for business
What is fibre optic broadband, and what types of fibre broadband connections are available to your business.
Fibre broadband uses the latest fibre optic technology to provide faster speeds and more reliable internet service.
Types of fibre broadband connections
There are generally two types of fibre broadband connections:
Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) speed
FTTC uses fibre optic cable to connect the telephone exchange or distribution point to your phone line in the street cabinet that serves your premises. From the cabinet, your signal travels to your premises via traditional copper lines.
FTTC can typically achieve maximum 80Mbps download speeds, and 20Mbps upload speeds, although the actual maximum speed of your connection will depend on the length of your phone line to the street cabinet.
Fibre to the premises (FTTP) speed
FTTP connections provide end-to-end fibre optic connection from the exchange or the service provider's fibre network to your premises. They can deliver the fastest speeds, reaching download speeds of 1000Mbps and upload speeds of 300Mbps or more. They are usually limited to premises near the telephone exchange or fibre network. The main telecom operators in NI have plans to significantly increase availability of FTTP across NI so it is always worth checking availability.
G.Fast
At present, only a small number of providers offer packages using the hybrid G.Fast technology as it is only available to a limited number of FTTC subscribers around the UK.
G.Fast uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to the street cabinets, where a device is fitted that increases the maximum broadband speed users can get via their existing copper cables to be greater speeds than standard FTTC technology.
G.Fast can deliver speeds of up to 330Mbps download and 50Mbps upload, depending on the length and quality of the phone line between the premises at the street cabinet. It operates best over a short run of copper cable, ideally less than 350 meters from the cabinet.
Benefits of fibre broadband to business
With faster speeds and increased reliability, fibre broadband connections can make your business run more efficiently and be more profitable. It can help you:
- Get more done. Faster speeds mean you and your staff can do more bandwidth-heavy tasks simultaneously (eg send and receive large files, images and video) without experiencing slowdowns.
- Reach new markets. Fast, reliable speeds make online marketing easier and enable you to instantly communicate with customers in your area and across the world using social media, email marketing or via an online shop hosted on your website.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Connect with customers and suppliers quicker and in new ways, eg through VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony and video conferencing.
- Make use of cloud computing. Take advantage of hosted applications, such as instant data backups, to reduce equipment, software and licensing costs. Pay only for what you use.
- Work remotely. Work from home or on the go, with the same efficiency as if you were working from the office.
- Cut costs. Online data storage can save you space and money on physical storage systems
Find superfast fibre broadband providers in Northern Ireland.
Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
The government is providing voucher funding to help eligible businesses experiencing slow broadband speeds in rural areas. The vouchers are worth up to £4,500 to help cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. Read more about the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/fibre-broadband-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
Difference between business broadband and home broadband, and advantages of using home broadband for your business.
Not every business requires a specialised business broadband connection. Some may be able to use their home broadband service, especially if their requirements are limited.
Broadband products are generally similar for domestic and corporate users. They rely on the same technology and infrastructure, but commercial businesses typically have different needs to the average domestic user.
It is important to consider your specific needs and the type and nature of your business when you're choosing a broadband package for your company.
Do I need business broadband?
If you're working from home temporarily or occasionally, in most cases your normal home broadband should be sufficient.
However, keep in mind that a home broadband package is designed for personal use. It often comes with a number of restrictions that businesses may find disadvantageous.
If you are a small business, a start-up or a sole trader, and you are working from home more permanently, a home broadband package would only be a suitable option if:
- you don't use the internet frequently and at very specific times
- internet access is not vital to your business operations
- any 'downtime' or 'slowdown' would not significantly affect the survival or profitability of your business
- you don't need large data transfers (eg uploading or downloading of large files) to conduct their business operations
If you are a larger business, or a small business relying on a dependable, secure internet connection, then business broadband might be a better option for you.
Key reasons for getting business broadband
Business packages generally offer faster connection speeds, greater data transfer allowances, static IP addresses and usually more service reliability with better service level targets.
These features may come at a greater price, but they may help you run your business more efficiently. Read more on the advantages of business broadband.
Claiming business expenses if you're using home broadband
If you use home broadband for your business, you may be able to reclaim some cost if:
- you use it for business purposes
- the broadband contract is undertaken in the name of your company
- the service is provided at home but paid for directly by the company
However, you are unlikely to be able to seek reimbursement if:
- you already have a broadband account in your personal name
- you are already paying for the connection
- you cannot split the business and personal use each month
Find out more about reimbursing broadband internet charges.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/using-home-broadband-business
Links
Broadband security and your business
An overview of the threats to your broadband, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks to your business.
Broadband provides an 'always-on' connection. This increases the security risks that your business network or equipment could become exposed to, such as viruses or hackers.
These risks could potentially be disastrous for your business. They could compromise your critical data, and lead to loss or theft of valuable information.
Is business broadband more secure than home broadband?
Business broadband packages most often come with better security options and more proactive measures than home broadband, to ensure that your data and network remain secure. Your internet service provider (ISP) can include, as an integral part of their offering, a range of security systems such as:
- network-wide email screening service
- anti-virus / anti-malware software and hardware firewall to intercept malicious attacks
- off-site data backup solution
Find out more about common network security issues.
How to secure your broadband connection
You can take some basic steps to reduce the risks to your broadband. For example, you can:
- install additional security software or an enhanced hardware firewall to your system
- keep your operating system, firewall, virus protection and other software up to date
- draw up and enforce policies for employee email/internet use
You should check which security options are available to you as part of your package, or at additional cost, from your ISP. Alternatively, you can consult an independent security expert.
You can also read more about securing your wireless network and find out how to protect your business online.
ActionsAlso on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/broadband-security-and-your-business
Links
Advantages of business broadband
What is broadband?
An introduction to broadband internet technologies, and how they work to enable online connectivity.
Broadband is a general term for a permanent, high-speed connection to the internet. It describes any telecommunications technology that allows for a transfer of large amounts of data using either:
- fixed telephone lines, eg DSL (digital subscriber line), cable and fibre optic technologies
- wireless access, eg Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Max, mobile and satellite technologies
Is broadband Wi-Fi?
No. Broadband is a term for a fast connection to the internet. Broadband can use wired or wireless technology.
Wi-Fi is simply a means of getting broadband without having to connect through wires. It uses radio wave technology as an alternative to network cables to provide connectivity.
How does broadband work?
A broadband connection, like a telephone line, is 'always on'. This means that, once you have switched on your computer or mobile device, you are connected and you can access the internet at any time.
Unlike the traditional 'dial-up' method, which has become largely redundant, broadband doesn't affect the phone line. This means that you are free to receive and make calls while online.
Most commonly, broadband is provided over your phone line, via cable or via satellite. You can also have broadband access via mobile networks. Read about the different types of broadband connections.
How much does broadband cost?
Broadband packages vary greatly, depending on the provider, the location of your premises and the services you need.
Normally, you pay a standard monthly fee to your provider for unlimited internet access, although certain broadband products may offer pay-as-you-go access.
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Source URL
/content/what-broadband
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Types of broadband connections
An overview of the most common types of broadband connections, and the options available to your business.
There are several types of broadband connections available. The location of your business may determine the type of connection you can access.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line)
ADSL is a common broadband technology available in the UK but, where available, it is being replaced with faster Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the premises (FTTP) internet connections. ADSL uses existing analogue telephone lines and can deliver download speeds from 0.5 Mbps up to 24 Mbps. Maximum upload speeds generally range from 0.25Mbps up to 1Mbps.
The exact speed of ADSL connection will depend on:
- length and quality of the phone line between your premises and the telephone exchange
- if the exchange has been upgraded to offer newer, faster services
If you are a small office or sole trader, a basic business ADSL line may be enough to meet your needs. Growing businesses or those relying on, for example, online sales or cloud storage, may want to consider faster connections such as fibre broadband for business.
Cable broadband
Broadband services are often available via cable TV operators using high-speed fibre optic networks. Most cable companies offer bundled packages that include telephone, broadband connection and TV channels.
Wireless access
In areas where broadband is not possible via telephone or cable, it may be available using wireless technology. Local Wi-Fi hotspots are common in airports, hotels, cafes, pubs and motorway service stations. Some operators also offer mobile phone style 'roaming' facilities.
Worldwide interoperability for microwave access (Wi-max) is a fast-emerging alternative to Wi-Fi and makes it possible to provide broadband to areas where other technology is unsuitable.
Satellite broadband
Businesses in remote areas where ADSL, cable or wireless are not possible can access the internet by satellite. Download and upload speeds may vary, but faster speeds and more competitive deals are increasingly becoming available. There are also new satellite internet services using clusters of low earth orbiting satellites offering fast speeds and low latency.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband enables you to wirelessly connect a portable computer to the internet using the 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network. Mobile broadband can be useful for those working on the move. However, download speeds can be slow and coverage is not universal, especially in rural areas.
Leased lines
Larger businesses or those with specialist data needs may want to think about a dedicated 'point-to-point' leased line connection. This can provide higher bandwidths for both uploading and downloading, and better security and privacy over a line used exclusively by the purchasing business.
Each type of connection has its advantages and disadvantages. You should consider your options carefully and think about:
- your location, as not all broadband deals will be available in your area
- your current and future usage needs, including bandwidth and speed
- your budget, including setup fees, monthly line rental and contract terms and fees
Read about the advantages of business broadband.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/types-broadband-connections
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Advantages of business broadband
What are the benefits of business broadband, and how can the right broadband package improve the running of your business.
If you are running a small business or working from home, you may be using your home broadband connection to get on the internet. Business packages are often more reliable and may offer more security if internet access is critical to your business.
Business broadband vs home broadband
Business broadband often offers:
- better data transfer capabilities - eg more generous or unlimited upload and download allowances, and higher upload speeds than home broadband
- faster connection speeds - some packages offer priority to business users over the network at peak times
- lower contention ratio - ie the number of other internet users sharing a server with you is generally lower allowing for greater connection speeds
- greater efficiency - eg streamlining and automating online tasks, such as linking your online shop with the stock control system, transaction processing, order tracking and stock reordering
- static IP addresses - needed for businesses looking to host their own servers, eg for emails, CCTV systems, website hosting or remote connections via the internet
- tech support - eg service level agreements guaranteeing fix time and priority engineer support
- additional services - tailored to specific needs of your business, eg email services, data management, upgrades, backup plans, recovery, cloud services, etc
Other benefits of business broadband
Business broadband usually costs more than home packages. However, it is worth weighing the cost against the advantages. A reliable, robust connection can:
- get you closer to your customers and suppliers, with round-the-clock access to account information, order status and project details
- enable you to respond to customers' email queries or website orders within minutes
- ensure that communications channels, such as email and video conferencing systems, remain open between you and your staff
A broadband connection that suits the particular needs of your business can help you become more flexible and more able to adapt to your staff, customer and supplier needs.
If you're not sure which internet access technology would be best suited to your business, read about the different types of broadband connections.
If you think you may not require a specialised business broadband connection, an alternative may be using home broadband for business.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/advantages-business-broadband
Links
Fibre broadband for business
What is fibre optic broadband, and what types of fibre broadband connections are available to your business.
Fibre broadband uses the latest fibre optic technology to provide faster speeds and more reliable internet service.
Types of fibre broadband connections
There are generally two types of fibre broadband connections:
Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) speed
FTTC uses fibre optic cable to connect the telephone exchange or distribution point to your phone line in the street cabinet that serves your premises. From the cabinet, your signal travels to your premises via traditional copper lines.
FTTC can typically achieve maximum 80Mbps download speeds, and 20Mbps upload speeds, although the actual maximum speed of your connection will depend on the length of your phone line to the street cabinet.
Fibre to the premises (FTTP) speed
FTTP connections provide end-to-end fibre optic connection from the exchange or the service provider's fibre network to your premises. They can deliver the fastest speeds, reaching download speeds of 1000Mbps and upload speeds of 300Mbps or more. They are usually limited to premises near the telephone exchange or fibre network. The main telecom operators in NI have plans to significantly increase availability of FTTP across NI so it is always worth checking availability.
G.Fast
At present, only a small number of providers offer packages using the hybrid G.Fast technology as it is only available to a limited number of FTTC subscribers around the UK.
G.Fast uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to the street cabinets, where a device is fitted that increases the maximum broadband speed users can get via their existing copper cables to be greater speeds than standard FTTC technology.
G.Fast can deliver speeds of up to 330Mbps download and 50Mbps upload, depending on the length and quality of the phone line between the premises at the street cabinet. It operates best over a short run of copper cable, ideally less than 350 meters from the cabinet.
Benefits of fibre broadband to business
With faster speeds and increased reliability, fibre broadband connections can make your business run more efficiently and be more profitable. It can help you:
- Get more done. Faster speeds mean you and your staff can do more bandwidth-heavy tasks simultaneously (eg send and receive large files, images and video) without experiencing slowdowns.
- Reach new markets. Fast, reliable speeds make online marketing easier and enable you to instantly communicate with customers in your area and across the world using social media, email marketing or via an online shop hosted on your website.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Connect with customers and suppliers quicker and in new ways, eg through VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony and video conferencing.
- Make use of cloud computing. Take advantage of hosted applications, such as instant data backups, to reduce equipment, software and licensing costs. Pay only for what you use.
- Work remotely. Work from home or on the go, with the same efficiency as if you were working from the office.
- Cut costs. Online data storage can save you space and money on physical storage systems
Find superfast fibre broadband providers in Northern Ireland.
Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
The government is providing voucher funding to help eligible businesses experiencing slow broadband speeds in rural areas. The vouchers are worth up to £4,500 to help cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. Read more about the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/fibre-broadband-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
Difference between business broadband and home broadband, and advantages of using home broadband for your business.
Not every business requires a specialised business broadband connection. Some may be able to use their home broadband service, especially if their requirements are limited.
Broadband products are generally similar for domestic and corporate users. They rely on the same technology and infrastructure, but commercial businesses typically have different needs to the average domestic user.
It is important to consider your specific needs and the type and nature of your business when you're choosing a broadband package for your company.
Do I need business broadband?
If you're working from home temporarily or occasionally, in most cases your normal home broadband should be sufficient.
However, keep in mind that a home broadband package is designed for personal use. It often comes with a number of restrictions that businesses may find disadvantageous.
If you are a small business, a start-up or a sole trader, and you are working from home more permanently, a home broadband package would only be a suitable option if:
- you don't use the internet frequently and at very specific times
- internet access is not vital to your business operations
- any 'downtime' or 'slowdown' would not significantly affect the survival or profitability of your business
- you don't need large data transfers (eg uploading or downloading of large files) to conduct their business operations
If you are a larger business, or a small business relying on a dependable, secure internet connection, then business broadband might be a better option for you.
Key reasons for getting business broadband
Business packages generally offer faster connection speeds, greater data transfer allowances, static IP addresses and usually more service reliability with better service level targets.
These features may come at a greater price, but they may help you run your business more efficiently. Read more on the advantages of business broadband.
Claiming business expenses if you're using home broadband
If you use home broadband for your business, you may be able to reclaim some cost if:
- you use it for business purposes
- the broadband contract is undertaken in the name of your company
- the service is provided at home but paid for directly by the company
However, you are unlikely to be able to seek reimbursement if:
- you already have a broadband account in your personal name
- you are already paying for the connection
- you cannot split the business and personal use each month
Find out more about reimbursing broadband internet charges.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/using-home-broadband-business
Links
Broadband security and your business
An overview of the threats to your broadband, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks to your business.
Broadband provides an 'always-on' connection. This increases the security risks that your business network or equipment could become exposed to, such as viruses or hackers.
These risks could potentially be disastrous for your business. They could compromise your critical data, and lead to loss or theft of valuable information.
Is business broadband more secure than home broadband?
Business broadband packages most often come with better security options and more proactive measures than home broadband, to ensure that your data and network remain secure. Your internet service provider (ISP) can include, as an integral part of their offering, a range of security systems such as:
- network-wide email screening service
- anti-virus / anti-malware software and hardware firewall to intercept malicious attacks
- off-site data backup solution
Find out more about common network security issues.
How to secure your broadband connection
You can take some basic steps to reduce the risks to your broadband. For example, you can:
- install additional security software or an enhanced hardware firewall to your system
- keep your operating system, firewall, virus protection and other software up to date
- draw up and enforce policies for employee email/internet use
You should check which security options are available to you as part of your package, or at additional cost, from your ISP. Alternatively, you can consult an independent security expert.
You can also read more about securing your wireless network and find out how to protect your business online.
ActionsAlso on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/broadband-security-and-your-business
Links
Types of broadband connections
What is broadband?
An introduction to broadband internet technologies, and how they work to enable online connectivity.
Broadband is a general term for a permanent, high-speed connection to the internet. It describes any telecommunications technology that allows for a transfer of large amounts of data using either:
- fixed telephone lines, eg DSL (digital subscriber line), cable and fibre optic technologies
- wireless access, eg Wi-Fi networks, Wi-Max, mobile and satellite technologies
Is broadband Wi-Fi?
No. Broadband is a term for a fast connection to the internet. Broadband can use wired or wireless technology.
Wi-Fi is simply a means of getting broadband without having to connect through wires. It uses radio wave technology as an alternative to network cables to provide connectivity.
How does broadband work?
A broadband connection, like a telephone line, is 'always on'. This means that, once you have switched on your computer or mobile device, you are connected and you can access the internet at any time.
Unlike the traditional 'dial-up' method, which has become largely redundant, broadband doesn't affect the phone line. This means that you are free to receive and make calls while online.
Most commonly, broadband is provided over your phone line, via cable or via satellite. You can also have broadband access via mobile networks. Read about the different types of broadband connections.
How much does broadband cost?
Broadband packages vary greatly, depending on the provider, the location of your premises and the services you need.
Normally, you pay a standard monthly fee to your provider for unlimited internet access, although certain broadband products may offer pay-as-you-go access.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/what-broadband
Links
Types of broadband connections
An overview of the most common types of broadband connections, and the options available to your business.
There are several types of broadband connections available. The location of your business may determine the type of connection you can access.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line)
ADSL is a common broadband technology available in the UK but, where available, it is being replaced with faster Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the premises (FTTP) internet connections. ADSL uses existing analogue telephone lines and can deliver download speeds from 0.5 Mbps up to 24 Mbps. Maximum upload speeds generally range from 0.25Mbps up to 1Mbps.
The exact speed of ADSL connection will depend on:
- length and quality of the phone line between your premises and the telephone exchange
- if the exchange has been upgraded to offer newer, faster services
If you are a small office or sole trader, a basic business ADSL line may be enough to meet your needs. Growing businesses or those relying on, for example, online sales or cloud storage, may want to consider faster connections such as fibre broadband for business.
Cable broadband
Broadband services are often available via cable TV operators using high-speed fibre optic networks. Most cable companies offer bundled packages that include telephone, broadband connection and TV channels.
Wireless access
In areas where broadband is not possible via telephone or cable, it may be available using wireless technology. Local Wi-Fi hotspots are common in airports, hotels, cafes, pubs and motorway service stations. Some operators also offer mobile phone style 'roaming' facilities.
Worldwide interoperability for microwave access (Wi-max) is a fast-emerging alternative to Wi-Fi and makes it possible to provide broadband to areas where other technology is unsuitable.
Satellite broadband
Businesses in remote areas where ADSL, cable or wireless are not possible can access the internet by satellite. Download and upload speeds may vary, but faster speeds and more competitive deals are increasingly becoming available. There are also new satellite internet services using clusters of low earth orbiting satellites offering fast speeds and low latency.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband enables you to wirelessly connect a portable computer to the internet using the 3G, 4G or 5G mobile phone network. Mobile broadband can be useful for those working on the move. However, download speeds can be slow and coverage is not universal, especially in rural areas.
Leased lines
Larger businesses or those with specialist data needs may want to think about a dedicated 'point-to-point' leased line connection. This can provide higher bandwidths for both uploading and downloading, and better security and privacy over a line used exclusively by the purchasing business.
Each type of connection has its advantages and disadvantages. You should consider your options carefully and think about:
- your location, as not all broadband deals will be available in your area
- your current and future usage needs, including bandwidth and speed
- your budget, including setup fees, monthly line rental and contract terms and fees
Read about the advantages of business broadband.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/types-broadband-connections
Links
Advantages of business broadband
What are the benefits of business broadband, and how can the right broadband package improve the running of your business.
If you are running a small business or working from home, you may be using your home broadband connection to get on the internet. Business packages are often more reliable and may offer more security if internet access is critical to your business.
Business broadband vs home broadband
Business broadband often offers:
- better data transfer capabilities - eg more generous or unlimited upload and download allowances, and higher upload speeds than home broadband
- faster connection speeds - some packages offer priority to business users over the network at peak times
- lower contention ratio - ie the number of other internet users sharing a server with you is generally lower allowing for greater connection speeds
- greater efficiency - eg streamlining and automating online tasks, such as linking your online shop with the stock control system, transaction processing, order tracking and stock reordering
- static IP addresses - needed for businesses looking to host their own servers, eg for emails, CCTV systems, website hosting or remote connections via the internet
- tech support - eg service level agreements guaranteeing fix time and priority engineer support
- additional services - tailored to specific needs of your business, eg email services, data management, upgrades, backup plans, recovery, cloud services, etc
Other benefits of business broadband
Business broadband usually costs more than home packages. However, it is worth weighing the cost against the advantages. A reliable, robust connection can:
- get you closer to your customers and suppliers, with round-the-clock access to account information, order status and project details
- enable you to respond to customers' email queries or website orders within minutes
- ensure that communications channels, such as email and video conferencing systems, remain open between you and your staff
A broadband connection that suits the particular needs of your business can help you become more flexible and more able to adapt to your staff, customer and supplier needs.
If you're not sure which internet access technology would be best suited to your business, read about the different types of broadband connections.
If you think you may not require a specialised business broadband connection, an alternative may be using home broadband for business.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/advantages-business-broadband
Links
Fibre broadband for business
What is fibre optic broadband, and what types of fibre broadband connections are available to your business.
Fibre broadband uses the latest fibre optic technology to provide faster speeds and more reliable internet service.
Types of fibre broadband connections
There are generally two types of fibre broadband connections:
Fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) speed
FTTC uses fibre optic cable to connect the telephone exchange or distribution point to your phone line in the street cabinet that serves your premises. From the cabinet, your signal travels to your premises via traditional copper lines.
FTTC can typically achieve maximum 80Mbps download speeds, and 20Mbps upload speeds, although the actual maximum speed of your connection will depend on the length of your phone line to the street cabinet.
Fibre to the premises (FTTP) speed
FTTP connections provide end-to-end fibre optic connection from the exchange or the service provider's fibre network to your premises. They can deliver the fastest speeds, reaching download speeds of 1000Mbps and upload speeds of 300Mbps or more. They are usually limited to premises near the telephone exchange or fibre network. The main telecom operators in NI have plans to significantly increase availability of FTTP across NI so it is always worth checking availability.
G.Fast
At present, only a small number of providers offer packages using the hybrid G.Fast technology as it is only available to a limited number of FTTC subscribers around the UK.
G.Fast uses fibre optic cables from the exchange to the street cabinets, where a device is fitted that increases the maximum broadband speed users can get via their existing copper cables to be greater speeds than standard FTTC technology.
G.Fast can deliver speeds of up to 330Mbps download and 50Mbps upload, depending on the length and quality of the phone line between the premises at the street cabinet. It operates best over a short run of copper cable, ideally less than 350 meters from the cabinet.
Benefits of fibre broadband to business
With faster speeds and increased reliability, fibre broadband connections can make your business run more efficiently and be more profitable. It can help you:
- Get more done. Faster speeds mean you and your staff can do more bandwidth-heavy tasks simultaneously (eg send and receive large files, images and video) without experiencing slowdowns.
- Reach new markets. Fast, reliable speeds make online marketing easier and enable you to instantly communicate with customers in your area and across the world using social media, email marketing or via an online shop hosted on your website.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Connect with customers and suppliers quicker and in new ways, eg through VoIP (voice over internet protocol) telephony and video conferencing.
- Make use of cloud computing. Take advantage of hosted applications, such as instant data backups, to reduce equipment, software and licensing costs. Pay only for what you use.
- Work remotely. Work from home or on the go, with the same efficiency as if you were working from the office.
- Cut costs. Online data storage can save you space and money on physical storage systems
Find superfast fibre broadband providers in Northern Ireland.
Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme
The government is providing voucher funding to help eligible businesses experiencing slow broadband speeds in rural areas. The vouchers are worth up to £4,500 to help cover the costs of installing gigabit broadband. Read more about the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/fibre-broadband-business
Links
Using home broadband for business
Difference between business broadband and home broadband, and advantages of using home broadband for your business.
Not every business requires a specialised business broadband connection. Some may be able to use their home broadband service, especially if their requirements are limited.
Broadband products are generally similar for domestic and corporate users. They rely on the same technology and infrastructure, but commercial businesses typically have different needs to the average domestic user.
It is important to consider your specific needs and the type and nature of your business when you're choosing a broadband package for your company.
Do I need business broadband?
If you're working from home temporarily or occasionally, in most cases your normal home broadband should be sufficient.
However, keep in mind that a home broadband package is designed for personal use. It often comes with a number of restrictions that businesses may find disadvantageous.
If you are a small business, a start-up or a sole trader, and you are working from home more permanently, a home broadband package would only be a suitable option if:
- you don't use the internet frequently and at very specific times
- internet access is not vital to your business operations
- any 'downtime' or 'slowdown' would not significantly affect the survival or profitability of your business
- you don't need large data transfers (eg uploading or downloading of large files) to conduct their business operations
If you are a larger business, or a small business relying on a dependable, secure internet connection, then business broadband might be a better option for you.
Key reasons for getting business broadband
Business packages generally offer faster connection speeds, greater data transfer allowances, static IP addresses and usually more service reliability with better service level targets.
These features may come at a greater price, but they may help you run your business more efficiently. Read more on the advantages of business broadband.
Claiming business expenses if you're using home broadband
If you use home broadband for your business, you may be able to reclaim some cost if:
- you use it for business purposes
- the broadband contract is undertaken in the name of your company
- the service is provided at home but paid for directly by the company
However, you are unlikely to be able to seek reimbursement if:
- you already have a broadband account in your personal name
- you are already paying for the connection
- you cannot split the business and personal use each month
Find out more about reimbursing broadband internet charges.
Also on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/using-home-broadband-business
Links
Broadband security and your business
An overview of the threats to your broadband, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks to your business.
Broadband provides an 'always-on' connection. This increases the security risks that your business network or equipment could become exposed to, such as viruses or hackers.
These risks could potentially be disastrous for your business. They could compromise your critical data, and lead to loss or theft of valuable information.
Is business broadband more secure than home broadband?
Business broadband packages most often come with better security options and more proactive measures than home broadband, to ensure that your data and network remain secure. Your internet service provider (ISP) can include, as an integral part of their offering, a range of security systems such as:
- network-wide email screening service
- anti-virus / anti-malware software and hardware firewall to intercept malicious attacks
- off-site data backup solution
Find out more about common network security issues.
How to secure your broadband connection
You can take some basic steps to reduce the risks to your broadband. For example, you can:
- install additional security software or an enhanced hardware firewall to your system
- keep your operating system, firewall, virus protection and other software up to date
- draw up and enforce policies for employee email/internet use
You should check which security options are available to you as part of your package, or at additional cost, from your ISP. Alternatively, you can consult an independent security expert.
You can also read more about securing your wireless network and find out how to protect your business online.
ActionsAlso on this siteContent category
Source URL
/content/broadband-security-and-your-business
Links