More students are gaining access to education through remote learning tools. The rise of online classes, virtual meetings with teachers, cloud-based learning platforms and even virtual reality (VR) have all become possible due to business broadband.
In the past, remote learning wasn’t readily available because of Internet connections being far too slow or unreliable. As a result, students would often experience frozen videos or online lessons being dropped.
With business broadband, this is a thing of the past. Now with faster, more secure Internet, teachers can teach and learners can learn from wherever they are with minimal interruptions.
How Is Business Broadband Different From Other Connections?
Business broadband has been designed specifically to service businesses and other bigger organisations with high-speed Internet.
It differs greatly from home broadband because it has faster speeds, more security features and static IP addresses for those who want to use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology.
Moreover, it also offers higher usage allowances as businesses will require far more data than a private residence. Most providers will also offer priority customer support to prevent any disruptions to their day-to-day activities.
How Business Broadband Supports Remote Education
Business broadband is the backbone of remote education to ensure connectivity at all times. Without it, virtual classes wouldn’t be able to run smoothly if calls are dropped or lag. Here are a few other ways that remote education is supported by business broadband.
Video calling: Some institutions may use platforms like Google Meet or Zoom which all require high-speed Internet like business broadband.
File sharing: With online learning, both teachers and students need to upload and download files which are usually quite large, including presentations or PDFs. Business broadband offers fast upload and download speeds to minimise delays.
Security: These institutions need to protect the information of their students and business broadband typically have stronger firewalls to prevent unauthorised access.
7 Business Broadband Providers For Remote Education
While business broadband is certainly worthwhile for remote education settings, choosing the right service provider will go a long way in making sure that its full capabilities are benefitted from.
Let’s take a look at some of the top providers on the market.
1. BT Business
BT is one of the UK’s biggest broadband providers and trusted for its reliable service. Their packages are specifically suited to larger institutions, including schools that require reliable and scalable Internet.
Key Features:
- 24/7 customer support.
- Advanced cybersecurity tools.
- Up to 900Mbps speed with full fibre.
- Unlimited data.
2. TalkTalk Business
TalkTalk Business offers customers customisable options for their business broadband packages. This is particularly beneficial for smaller schools, tutors or those on a budget who still need reliable service that doesn’t break the bank.
Key Features:
- Static IP address.
- Optional backup broadband.
- Speeds up to 76Mbps but higher with fibre.
- Security and spam filtering.
3. Virgin Media Business
Virgin Media Business is known for their ultra-fast speeds, best suited to schools in urban areas with access to cable coverage that require maximum speed and uptime to support their learning.
Key Features:
- Speeds of up to 1Gbps.
- Optional backup 4G broadband.
- Hosted VoIP services.
- Dynamic or static IP options.
4. Zen Internet
Zen may be a smaller provider but offers excellent reliability and service for its customers which is key for remote learning. For those who value consistent support, Zen is the option to go for.
Key Features:
- Award-winning support team.
- Speeds of up to 900Mbps.
- Unlimited usage with guaranteed uptime.
- Advanced cybersecurity options.
5. Vodafone Business Broadband
With Vodafone’s packages, customers can enjoy flexibility and fast speeds at an affordable cost. This is great for learning bodies who want to strike a balance between price and performance, with the option to scale if needed.
Key Features:
- Speeds of up to 900Mbps with full fibre.
- Optional cybersecurity options.
- 4G backup router available.
- Smart router with app control.
6. Hyperoptic
Hyperoptic has been growing rapidly across UK cities with incredibly fast full-fibre broadband for businesses. This is ideal for learning centres based in the city who need high-speed symmetrical Internet.
Key Features:
- No usage caps.
- Speeds of 1Gbps symmetrical.
- Reliable support and uptime.
- Shorter contracts are available.
7. Sky Connect
Sky Connect’s packages are specialised for small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) which include tutors and small schools. Their packages are both affordable and user-friendly even for those who aren’t necessarily tech-savvy.
Key Features:
- 4G backup options.
- Speeds of up to 76Mbps but higher for fibre.
- 24/7 technical support.
- Static IP and Wi-Fi solutions.
