Although you don’t have to switch your internet service provider (ISP) when you’re moving your home or business—since most ISPs will transfer their service to your new location for no fee—moving often provides the perfect opportunity to reevaluate the service you’re getting for your money.
Just because a certain ISP has a nationwide presence doesn’t always mean it’s the best (or the cheapest) option. Learn how a local ISP can help you maintain system security and strength, often while reducing your monthly cost.
Evaluate Whether (and Why) You Want to Switch Services
Every business has different internet needs, and the one-size-fits-all plans offered by many of the biggest carriers may not meet all of these needs at once. Before you begin shopping around, you’ll want to prioritize your needs and wants so that you’ll be able to ask informed questions of any potential ISP providers.
Some of these needs and wants can include:
- Faster internet
- Lower monthly cost
- Greater coverage for multiple devices or data-heavy transactions
- Better or more responsive customer service
- A flexible, contract-free arrangement that allows you to switch between packages without paying connection or early termination fees.
As you’re making this list, you may find that your current ISP just isn’t able to fit the bill no matter which of their plans you select. This can make switching to a local ISP a no-brainer.
But only by evaluating all potential ISPs using these factors can you prevent going through the hassle of switching services just to find yourself equally dissatisfied with your new ISP after a short time. On the other hand, having this list handy (and updating it periodically as your business’s needs shift over time) can take all the legwork out of evaluating a new ISP if you decide to switch again in the future.
What Unique Benefits Can Local ISPs Offer?
Local ISPs are often the underdogs of the internet service provider realm. But while they don’t have the nationwide network enjoyed by the major telecommunications companies, they can offer some benefits that you just won’t find in other places. These include:
Responsive Customer Service
If you’re like most business owners or IT professionals, you don’t have the time to wait on hold when your internet isn’t working as it should. Local ISPs are far less likely than national ones to outsource their customer service, which means you won’t need to go through a complex phone tree or speak to someone halfway around the world to resolve a problem with your connection, bill, or service package.
Flexible, Customizable Plans
Many businesses don’t have the same telecommunication needs year-round. For example, if you run a pool supply shop, you may need major connectivity during the spring and summer months to process frequent credit card transactions, price-match online, or reorder supplies; but during the winter, business may be slow enough that paying for a top-of-the-line internet package doesn’t make sense. By going with a local ISP, you may be able to choose a contract-free arrangement that lets you switch between packages without paying extra fees.
Getting Started
If you’re not sure whether your current ISP is meeting your needs, you could benefit from a call with our experts. We’ll work with you to see what telecommunication speeds and services best for your business and how you can meet your needs in the most cost-effective way. Click here to schedule your free 30-minute phone consultation at whatever time is most convenient for you.