How do I find out more?

What information will a service provider need from me?

Once you decide to apply for a broadband connection, the Internet Service Provider you have chosen will expect you to provide the following information:

  • your phone number for installation and other contact information,
  • the current configuration of your network or setup,
  • whether you intend to supply and install your own modem or whether you require the ISP to provide it,
  • the speed of access you require,
  • the number of distributed sites you may have,
  • what applications are to be supported,
  • the download allowance you require (taking into account your current usage and any new applications you would like to use once you have broadband).

To choose your download allowance it is best to evaluate the type of data you will be accessing.  If, for example you will be downloading a significant number of large documents, such as graphic files, software or online catalogues, then a plan with a high download allowance would be advisable.  If the connection will be used mainly for regular email and Internet browsing then a lower download plan would be sufficient.

What questions should I ask a potential Internet Service Provider?

The services offered by ISPs vary from a simple Internet connection to a comprehensive service including customer support, email, web-hosting and so on.

Depending on the level of service you require and the amount you are willing to pay, questions that will help you determine which Internet Service Providers can best meet your needs include:

  • Which broadband technologies does the ISP offer?
  • What fees and charges apply- installation and monthly access?
  • Is there a download limit and if so how is it calculated and applied?
  • What is the maximum speed of the connection (upload and download speed)?
  • Is the new system scalable if my business grows?
  • Is there a service level agreement guaranteeing a minimum level of performance for speed and reliability?
  • What are the terms and conditions of the contract and acceptable use policy?

A comprehensive list of questions you should ask a potential ISP is available at www.broadbandxchange.org/abb/c01p054.htm  You should also know about your ISP's acceptable use policy.  An acceptable use policy is a written agreement with your Internet service provider that you will use their system in a responsible manner - see www.broadbandxchange.org/abb/c01p052.htm for further information.

More information

NOIE (www.noie.gov.au) and SPAN Broadband Xchange (www.broadbandxchange.org) have produced this brochure.  Visit www.noie.gov.au/ebusiness to learn how eBusiness is being applied by small business. Visit www.broadbandxchange.org/abb/c01p060.htm for further explanation of terms used.  The Broadband Xchange website is provided by SPAN (Service Providers Industry Association Inc ABN 83 588 663 448 www.span.net.au). The principal sponsors of Broadband Xchange are Alcatel, Microsoft, Southern Cross Cable Network and Telstra.

 
Document ID: 18214 | Last modified: 22 May 2009, 1:39pm