With the news that the collective UK footprint (premises passed) of full fibre broadband networks delivered by alternative-network (alt-net) providers has reached 12.9 million premises, or 35% of all UK premises, it is worth highlighting the multitude of benefits that local businesses stand to gain.
That’s because full fibre infrastructure is, after all, not just an upgrade, but a game-changer.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in rural and remote communities across the East of England where Essex-based County Broadband is designing, building and deploying full fibre networks.
Innovation, resilience, creativity and even recruitment are just some of the ways that budding entrepreneurs, ambitious start-ups, and small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit.
In our latest blog, we explore the key benefits and features that make full fibre an essential asset for businesses and owners – whether you’re working from home or in the office.
Lightning-fast speeds
If you’re struggling with slow speeds at work, where receiving large files or saving to the cloud can seem to take all day while your competitors are racing ahead, it is worth noting that you’ll benefit immediately from the gigabit-capable speeds that are around 11 times quicker than the UK average.
These are symmetrical speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps (megabytes per second) that you’ll get for both downloads and uploads, meaning faster file transfers, smoother video conferencing, and enhanced productivity for all team members.
Faster data transfers: Gigabit speeds allow for rapid uploading and downloading of large files, enabling teams to share documents and collaborate in real-time without delays.
Efficient workflows: Employees can access cloud-based applications and databases more quickly, streamlining their workflow and enhancing overall efficiency.
Reliability and stability
Fibre optic cables are inherently more secure than superfast copper wires, making them less vulnerable to hacking or data breaches. This added layer of security is essential for businesses that handle sensitive customer information or conduct financial transactions online.
Full fibre networks are also less susceptible to interference and environmental factors compared to copper lines. This results in a more stable connection, reducing downtime and ensuring that your business operations run smoothly. For local businesses that rely on online transactions or cloud-based applications, this reliability is crucial.
Full fibre broadband also provides low latency connections which are essential for real-time applications like video conferencing and live streaming. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses that require seamless communication and collaboration.
Improved productivity and scalability
With high-speed internet, employees can access resources quickly, collaborate seamlessly, and manage their tasks more efficiently. This increase in productivity can lead to better customer service and enhanced business performance, giving local businesses a competitive edge.
Full fibre networks are easily scalable too. As your business grows, you can upgrade your bandwidth without the need for significant infrastructure changes. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing needs without disruption.
Future-proofing your business
As technology continues to advance, the demand for faster internet speeds and greater bandwidth will only increase. Investing in full fibre broadband today ensures that your business is equipped to handle future demands, from cloud computing to Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Enhanced customer experience
For businesses that rely on online presence – be it through e-commerce, social media, or digital marketing – full fibre broadband ensures a smooth user experience. Fast loading times and reliable connectivity can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Faster website performance: Customers benefit from quicker load times on websites, leading to improved satisfaction and reduced bounce rates.
Better e-commerce: For online retailers, faster speeds can handle more transactions simultaneously, leading to increased sales and customer retention.
As we start looking ahead to 2025, the rapid evolution of the digital landscape is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, the rate of acceleration is only heading in one direction.
Local businesses must therefore adapt to survive and thrive. Full fibre broadband offers unparalleled speed, reliability and security, making it an indispensable tool for enhancing productivity and improving customer experiences.
As more businesses recognise the importance of a robust internet connection, investing in full fibre broadband is a forward-thinking choice that will pave the way for future success.
If you’re considering upgrading your business’s internet connection, now is the time to explore the benefits of full fibre broadband and how it can propel your local enterprise into the future.
Whether you’re a resident or business, find out if you’re covered in County Broadband’s rollout by entering your postcode at www.countybroadband.co.uk where you can also register your interest to learn more about the full fibre infrastructure and service.
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