You're seeking more bandwidth for your organization. How can you secure it without breaking the bank?

1 Optimize Usage

Before investing in additional bandwidth, it's wise to ensure you're making the most of what you currently have. Start by conducting a thorough audit of your existing network usage. Identify non-essential applications or devices that may be consuming bandwidth unnecessarily. Implementing usage policies or quality of service (QoS) rules can prioritize critical business applications and limit bandwidth for less important traffic, ensuring that your vital operations get the bandwidth they need without additional costs.

2 Upgrade Gradually

If optimization isn't enough, consider a phased approach to upgrading your bandwidth. Rather than a large-scale investment, incrementally increase your bandwidth as needed. This allows you to manage costs effectively while still addressing your growing needs. Monitor the performance improvements with each upgrade to determine if further investment is justified. By spreading out the cost over time, you can avoid a significant one-time financial hit.

4 Leverage Bundling

Many ISPs offer bundled services that can include internet, phone, and television. By bundling services, you can often secure a better rate for higher bandwidth options. Evaluate your organization's needs and compare bundled packages from several providers. While bundling can save money, ensure that you're not paying for additional services that you don't need, as this could negate the cost benefits.

6 Negotiate Contracts

Finally, when you're ready to commit to a provider for increased bandwidth, don't accept the first offer. Engage in negotiations to get the best possible deal. Long-term contracts can often be negotiated to include more favorable terms, such as increased bandwidth at no additional cost. Be sure to fully understand the terms of the contract and any potential penalties for early termination or changes to ensure it aligns with your organization's growth and budget.