How much is your internet connection worth?

Nasstar Channel Account Manager Jon Lucas shares his thoughts on why when it comes to robust and reliable connectivity, you really do get what you pay for. 

As I stood in the cryostasis-like entry system to my gym last night, it dawned on me that this contraption was connected to the internet. And the reliability of that internet connection was the difference between getting on with my workout or being trapped in the claustrophobia-inducing doorway waiting to be rescued.  All of which most likely hinged on the most antiquated and basic internet technologies available, a DSL connection.

It got me to wondering, especially post-pandemic, how many businesses still functioned on base level broadband and what were they using it for? Working in the Channel, I frequently find that when speaking with partners about the different options available, it invariably comes back to what is the fastest and cheapest solution for their end user. And this is only becoming more common with the advent of the new kids of the block; FTTP, SoGEA and GFast. So why is this the case? And is the cheapest option always the best option?

Coming from a software sales background into telecoms it has always baffled me that a business will spend tens of thousands on system and hardware stacks, with salaried expertise behind them, only to then link to the outside world using whatever they can get away with on a budget. The average cost of IT downtime is $5,600 per minute* and yet businesses are reluctant to spend a similar figure per year on getting something suitable to their needs.

Many people adjusted their thinking on connectivity during the pandemic. Although too late in many cases, enforced homeworking suddenly meant everyone needed leased lines to allow for VPN’s and the ability to link to key systems in an empty office. Good job these things don’t have a long lead time and require engineer site access.

So, why does it take something seismic to reshape this mentality? When will business owners really start to insure themselves against this all-too-common loss of revenue?
Last week I had a conversation about a solution for a client. My recommendation was simple. If they want to truly achieve their goal, then they need to replace what they have instead of augmenting it. It was the most expensive and time intensive option, but it was the only option that truly met the brief. Time will tell whether we secure that piece of business but doing what’s right is always better than chasing the quick win. 

Back at the gym, if the humble connection fails, a staff member simply opens the door and checks people in manually. They don’t have record of my time of entry, or even my being there, but it’s not the end of the world for them. And as their consumer I can still access what I need so leave happy.

People say you get what you pay for, and my gym membership is cheap, as is their connectivity. But that’s their business model and they understand their customer and their limitations. Can the same be said for your end users?

Here, the Nasstar Channel team draw on a wealth of experience serving the channel across a range of connectivity solutions. With over 25 years collective experience in this space, we understand the needs of the channel and are committed to delivering high-quality services and unrivalled support that are right for you and your customers.