How Much Bandwidth Do I Need for My Business?
When setting up a business network, one of the first questions you should consider is: how much bandwidth do I need? This is an important question, because not having enough can have a significant impact on your business operations. When it comes to creating a reliable network for your business, it is one of the most important factors to consider.
The amount of bandwidth you need depends on the size of your business and how you use the internet. The number one concern, should be whether or not it’s enough to handle all of your company’s data-related needs. It’s important to consider not only current but also projected future needs. The term bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that your connection can handle at any given moment.
The amount of data you can handle depends on many things. Internet speed, the amount of devices connected, and networking equipment are only a few of those things. In this article, we will cover the basics of how to assess how much bandwidth your business needs.
Start Here: Understand Your Business Needs
When it comes to your business’s bandwidth, you need enough to keep up with the demands of your operations. Start by assessing what you’re using now and what you expect to use in the future. Take into account email, cloud storage needs, video conferencing, remote access, and other activities that will require bandwidth. Once you have identified these, plan accordingly and make sure your equipment and plan can meet those requirements.
Next: Calculate Your Total Bandwidth Requirements
Estimating the amount of bandwidth your business needs can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. You’ll find it much easier if you start by estimating the number of users that will access your network.
The reason this is so important, is that it helps you determine how much data every user requires. In addition, it helps you understand the maximum demand on your internet connection at any given time. Knowing these two things can help you avoid costly overages.
As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need 1-1.5mbps for each workstation or device in your office. Make sure to account for personal devices. Aside from that, below is a list of the things you want to consider when calculating your total bandwidth requirements.
Bandwidth Requirements
- The amount of employees you have
- How many workstations your business has
- What applications are running on your network devices.
Know The Difference Between Download & Upload Speeds
When it comes to understanding your bandwidth needs, knowing the difference between download speed and upload speed is important. Download speed refers to the rate you can transfer data from the internet to your computer (or device). While upload speed refers to the rate you can transfer data from your computer or device to the internet. Both are equally important especially for businesses!
Here is an example of why upload and download speed are both equally important for video conferencing. Download speed affects how well your connection receives video from other people on the video call. While upload speed affects how well your connection can send your video stream to others. Knowing both of these speeds will help you determine if your current speed is sufficient for your business needs.
Small Business Network Installation by Shultz Audio Video
No matter what size your business is, you’re already paying your internet provider for a fast connection. So, it only makes sense to have hardware that can deliver it, and the right team to install and configure it! We are a team of highly trained system designers and network installers, qualified to help build the network infrastructure your business needs to be successful. Let us help you get the most out of your business network. We are happy to come out free of charge to assess your current capabilities. For the best business network installation services in San Diego, call (760) 505-7461 to get started or click on the button below to fill out a contact form.
