Small businesses know that having a fast and reliable internet connection is a vital part of daily operations. From managing cloud-based systems to managing efficient communication, a broadband connection can affect the efficiency of your business. 

Nowadays, businesses are faced with the choice of traditional broadband and the newer full-fibre broadband. Understanding the key differences between the two can help you determine which is best for your business.

What is Full Fibre Broadband?

Full fibre broadband, also referred to as fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), is a high-speed internet that is delivered by fibre optic cables and something which is becoming more prevalent amongst business broadband providers in urban areas, where cables are being upgraded to fibre optic cables as part of infrastructure upgrades. 

These cables are typically thin glass or plastic fibres, which are far more effective than traditional copper wiring. Full fibre broadband offers the benefits of offering faster internet speeds, reduced download times, and greater reliability.

In contrast, traditional broadband delivers part of the internet connection through ageing and outdated copper wires. This often results in a slow internet connection, particularly if the cables or too long or of poor quality. 

Full Fibre vs Broadband: What Are The Key Differences?

There are several key differences to consider when comparing full fibre and traditional broadband.

Speed

When it comes to speed, full fibre outperforms traditional broadband. One of the most appealing benefits of full-fibre is its lightning-fast internet speed. Additionally, full fibre maintains its speed and reliability even during peak times or instances of bad weather. 

These speeds make it easier for businesses to transfer or download large amounts of data swiftly. Moreover, fast internet speeds can lead to increased productivity by enhancing workflow and processes.

Traditional broadband can, at its maximum speed, provide 24Mbps for ADSL or 70 Mbps for FTTC, whereas full-fibre broadband starts at 100Mbps and some packages can provide speeds of up to 1Gbps.

Bandwidth

Improved signal strength and bandwidth are among the improvements fibre optics bring. Full-fibre offers better signal quality, which means large businesses or warehouses will benefit from better connectivity throughout their premises. Improved bandwidth means more people can be connected to the internet simultaneously without experiencing any lagging or delays.

Reliability

This is another area where full-fibre excels. Traditional copper wires are known to be unreliable and can cause disruptions to your connection, particularly in bad weather or when there is high traffic. In older cities like London, Paris and others, where there is older infrastructure, upgrading to fibre optic can make a big difference. For example, many of the best business broadband providers in London have made or are making the switch to fibre optic cables and broadband, for the better

Small businesses can’t afford any disruptions in their internet connection, as this can result in significant financial losses. 

Full-fibre is incredibly reliable and does not suffer from throttling or disruptions,  even during periods of high traffic. Full fibre broadband experiences fewer faults or interruptions compared to traditional broadband. 

Cost

At first glance, traditional broadband may seem cheaper than full fibre. However, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of each connection type.

Traditional broadband is much cheaper than full-fibre, but the disruptions and slow internet speeds can make it more costly in the long run.

Full-fibre, on the other hand, can save your business money over time due to increased productivity and improved online efficiency it provides. 

Scalability

This is one of the most important factors a business needs to consider when choosing a broadband type. Your business will often go through stages of growth, so you need a broadband solution that can easily adapt. Full-fibre broadband can be easily upgraded to support a growing need for higher speeds. 

Traditional broadband options are not easily scalable.

How Do I Find The Best Fibre Broadband Provider For My Small Business?

There are many full-fibre providers to choose from. The best way to find the right provider is by assessing the needs of your business. Perhaps you use a VoIP communication tool that requires fast internet speed to work effectively, or maybe you need high download and upload speeds for large data transfers. Compare the prices of fibre providers that can accommodate your needs, and make sure to read customer reviews. 

Which is Right for Your Business?

Choosing the right option for your business will come down to the needs of your business. However, it is important to consider the long-term benefits that full-fibre can offer. Many small businesses are opting for full-fibre because of its scalability, speed, and reliability which all contribute to making your business more competitive. The digital world is evolving at a rapid pace and it is important for small businesses to not be left behind. For those looking to future-proof their business, investing in full-fibre broadband could be one of the smartest decisions you make. Full-fibre is not just an upgrade, but also gives you an edge over your competition.