For most people, the internet is an essential part of daily life. From checking the news to keeping in touch with friends and family, we rely on the internet for various activities.
When it comes to work or business, however, the stakes are even higher. A slow or unreliable internet connection can cost you dearly in terms of lost productivity, so it's important to make sure you have a service that can meet your needs.
But how fast does your internet need to be for work?
The reality is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. When it comes to choosing an internet speed for work, it really depends on what your job entails. If you're a website content writer, for example, you might be able to get by with a lower speed than someone who's working as a professional graphic designer.
Ultimately, the best way to determine what speed and reliability you need is to assess your own working style and needs. To help you figure things out easier, here's a quick guide to the different WiFi speed tiers and what they're best for.
Internet Speed | Job/s | Suitability |
25 Mbps | Website content writer, copywriter, journalist, proofreader, SEO expert, data entry specialist, email marketer, bookkeeper, online recruiter | If you have one or two devices that are regularly connected to the internet, you'll want an internet plan with speeds up to 25 Mbps. This will allow you to do things like surfing the web, checking your email, using social media, and offering SEO and link-building services without any issues. |
50 - 100 Mbps | Social media manager, online tutor, personal trainer, professional graphic designer, animator, virtual assistant, music reviewer, transcriptionist, chat agent, customer service representative, online moderator, web marketing consultant | 50 - 100 Mbps is recommended for anyone who plans on doing any sort of online activity that requires a decent amount of bandwidth. This would include activities such as graphics design, downloading files, and video conferencing. This speed is also suitable for anyone who uses social networking sites for work. And for those who like to stream 4K videos, this speed is definitely a necessity. |
150 – 200 Mbps | E-commerce store owner, website designer, website tester, video game streamer, software developer, computer support specialist, data analyst | Whether you have an e-commerce store or a full-service digital marketing agency, with more than five devices that need internet access, you'll want to make sure you have a plan with enough speed to support all of your users. A good rule of thumb is to look for a plan with at least 150 Mbps of speed. With this kind of speed, everyone in your home/office will be able to do their jobs without any lag time. You'll also be able to stream 4K video and live stream video without any buffering. And if you need to share large files, like video or design files, you'll be able to do so quickly and easily. |
Now, even if your job doesn't require a lot of data-heavy activities, it's still important to have a fast and reliable connection. After all, you never know when you'll need to download a large file or stream a video meeting.
Add that to the fact that, in today's always-on workplace, there's no room for a large margin of error when it comes to your internet connection. So if you can afford it, we recommend opting for the fastest speed possible. That way, you'll be prepared for anything that comes your way.
Should you switch to a new ISP if your current one isn't meeting your needs?
It's easy to feel stuck with your current Internet service provider (ISP), especially if you've been with them for a while. But if your needs have changed and your current ISP isn't meeting them, then yes, it might be time to switch. A new ISP could offer faster speeds, better customer service, or more data for the same price.
But, before you switch, make sure to do your research. Here are things to consider:
1. Availability
Not all ISPs are available in all areas, so you'll want to make sure that the ISP you're considering is actually available where you live or do your business. You can usually find this information on the ISP's website, or you can give them a call and ask straight-up.
2. Features and Extras
A lot of people automatically assume that the fastest speed is the best option, but that's not always the case. Sometimes, you might be better off with a slower speed and more data, online storage, and a security suite. Some ISPs also include free email accounts and discounts on home phone service.
3. Customer Service
Good customer service can be the difference between a minor issue being resolved quickly and a major headache that drags on for weeks. When considering switching to a new ISP, be sure to research its customer service policies and procedures. Find out what hours they offer support, what methods of contact are available, and how responsive they are to customer concerns.
4. Pricing
Lastly, you'll want to consider the price. Make sure to compare the monthly rates of different providers, as well as any installation or activation fees. A cheap ISP might save you money in the short term, but if its service is unreliable or its customer support is nonexistent, you'll end up paying more in the long run. On the other hand, a more expensive ISP might cost more upfront, but if it offers a reliable service with helpful customer support, you'll get your money's worth in the end.
You'll also want to think about the return on investment. If you're paying more for a higher-speed connection, make sure that you're actually going to see an increase in your web browsing or download speeds. Don't forget to factor in any extras that may be included in your package, such as free installation or free equipment rental.
By doing your research and comparing all of your options, you can make sure you're getting the best possible value for your money.