Whether you are a small team using your broadband to take card payments, or an office using AI automation, your internet connection is fundamental to the success of your business. If you are evaluating your current setup or moving to a new premises, here are five things you need to consider to ensure your connectivity provider is the best for your business.

1. Business vs. residential networks

It is often tempting to use a residential broadband package, or a community Altnet provider to save a few pounds, but the hidden costs of doing so in 2026 are significant. Residential networks are designed for “best effort” delivery, meaning your speeds may drop when the networks get busy with gaming and streaming video. This is not ideal if you are trying to send an important report before you leave for the day.

A true business network is built for “work-time” traffic. It offers lower latency for video conferencing and is supported by a Service Level Agreement (SLA). This is a legal commitment to how quickly a fault will be fixed. If your business cannot function without the internet, a residential “best effort” service is a risk you cannot afford.

2. The importance of a static IP address

Most residential connections use a “dynamic” IP address that changes every time you reconnect. For a modern business, a fixed (static) IP address is essential. You will need one if you want to:

• Run your own website or email server.
• Access your office computer or files securely from home via a VPN.
• Monitor high-quality CCTV systems remotely.
• Use certain types of secure financial or accounting software.

3. Consolidate your voice and data

Now that the old analogue lines have been replaced, your business phone calls travel over the internet (VoIP). To keep things simple and efficient, look for a provider that can supply a digital phone line alongside your broadband.

By using one supplier for both, you can keep your existing business numbers, ensure your voice traffic is prioritised so calls never drop, have one point of contact for questions and receive everything on a single, transparent bill.

4. Specialist support over call centres

When you have a question about your connectivity, you need an answer from an expert, not a script. The biggest differentiator between providers is the quality of their technical support.

Look for a provider where you can speak directly to a UK-based technician. You need a partner who understands your business setup and can troubleshoot any issues immediately, ensuring you spend your time running your business rather than managing your ISP.

5. Security as a core requirement

Cyber threats are more automated and sophisticated than ever before, and any business is a target. Your broadband provider shouldn’t just be a “dumb pipe” for data; they should be your first line of defence.

Look for a provider that prioritises security by holding certifications such as ISO 27001 and also offering managed services to protect their customers alongside the connection. This could include Next Generation Firewalls, Web Filtering, MFA and Device Protection. These tools can work at the network level to block malicious traffic and phishing attempts before they even reach your employees’ devices. With the 2026 updates to Cyber Essentials, having a provider that understands and supports your compliance needs is no longer optional.

By choosing a partner that offers business-only priority, integrated digital voice, and network-level security, you ensure your business stays productive, secure, and reachable. Ready to upgrade to a network built for business? And choose a provider who cares about your business success?  Use our Availability Checker or speak to one of our UK-based experts on 0800 028 2868 to find the right fit for you.

This guide has been fully revised for 2026 to reflect the advancement in broadband technologies use of digital tools used by SMEs today.