Safaricom Business Fibre Review: Fast, Reliable, & Affordable Internet for Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in?Kenya.

Just over a month ago, I shared my initial thoughts on Safaricom Business Fibre, specifically focusing on their new enhanced packages designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya. At the time, I had just signed up for the 100Mbps plan, and my early impressions were overwhelmingly positive. Now, with over a month of usage under my belt, it’s time for a deeper dive into what Safaricom Business Fibre has delivered and why I think it could be a game-changer for businesses in Kenya.

If you missed my first post, here’s a quick recap: Safaricom has introduced a range of packages aimed squarely at SMEs , offering high-speed, reliable internet with a broad range of value-added features. These packages are tailored to various business needs, from ‘solopreneurs’ to larger medium-sized companies, and the pricing is competitive enough to make you sit up and take notice.

In this post, I’ll revisit each package in detail, share my one-month plus experience with the 100Mbps plan, highlight the value-added features, and give you a practical guide on how to get connected.

Safaricom Business Fibre Plans: A Complete Overview

Safaricom PLC ’s Business Fibre packages offer three speed tiers, each designed to meet different business sizes and operational needs:

These plans provide scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes. From reliable internet for solo entrepreneurs to comprehensive connectivity for medium-sized enterprises, Safaricom offers packages that fit a variety of operational needs.

Performance Insights: My Experience On The 100Mbps Plan.

Since my initial post, I’ve had a few weeks to put the 100Mbps plan through its paces. Here’s a breakdown of my experience, focusing on performance, reliability, and value:

1. Consistent Speeds and Stability

Upon installation, my speed tests showed an impressive 267Mbps download?—?nearly three times the promised speed. Since then, the service has remained consistent, delivering 100Mbps download and 75Mbps upload on average, even during peak hours. The reliability has been impressive, with no downtime since I signed up.

For a business like mine, where high-speed internet is crucial, this consistency means less downtime, smoother file transfers, and a seamless experience when hosting video calls or streaming high-definition video.

2. Quick Installation and Hassle-Free Setup

I was surprised by how quickly Safaricom installed the service. Within a few days of completing the signup forms, a technician was on-site. The entire setup process took around three hours, including cable installation and configuring the Huawei EchoLife EG8145V5 router. The router, by the way, is dual band, offering both 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels, which has greatly improved my connectivity options around the office.

3. The Huawei EchoLife EG8145V5 Router: An Essential Piece of the Puzzle

The router provided by Safaricom is more than capable of handling the demands of a small to medium-sized business. Here are some features I particularly appreciated:

· Dual-Band Support: The 5GHz band handles high-speed tasks like streaming and large downloads, while 2.4GHz is perfect for general browsing.

· Multiple Ethernet Ports: With four Gigabit LAN ports, I can connect devices like desktop computers and network printers directly, maintaining maximum speed.

· Energy Efficiency: The router is designed for sustainability, with up to 25% power savings compared to other models.

· Triple-Play Capabilities: It supports internet, video, and voice services, making it versatile for diverse business applications.

This router has been instrumental in delivering the speeds and reliability I’ve experienced over the past month. It’s a solid piece of equipment that seamlessly integrates with my existing network setup.

Safaricom Business Fibre: Value-Added Features That Make a Difference

Beyond speed and reliability, Safaricom Business Fibre plans come packed with features that enhance business productivity. Here’s a closer look at some of the most impactful features included across all packages:

Backup Mobile Data

One of the standout benefits is the backup mobile data provided with each plan. For instance, the 100Mbps plan includes 15GB of backup data, ensuring that we stay connected even if there’s a disruption in the fibre service. This feature is especially crucial for businesses that can’t afford downtime and need a fail-safe option for internet access.

Closed User Group (CUG)

Communication remains a backbone for any business, and the CUG feature provides free minutes for up to three users on the 50Mbps and 100Mbps plans. This allows teams to make calls without worrying about additional costs, enhancing internal communication and ensuring that staying connected is hassle-free.

Guest Wi-Fi Access

The ability to provide Wi-Fi access to visitors is essential, especially for customer-facing businesses. The 50Mbps and 100Mbps plans come with robust guest network capabilities, allowing you to offer internet to clients or visitors without compromising your primary network. It’s a thoughtful addition that showcases Safaricom’s understanding of business needs.

Security with Content Filtering

All plans include content filtering, which is essential for keeping your business protected from inappropriate or harmful content. This is an invaluable feature for SMEs that want to secure their network and mitigate the risks associated with online threats, especially as cyber security concerns continue to grow.

Free Domain and Welcome Bundle

With each plan, Safaricom offers a free.co.ke domain, helping SMEs establish an online presence. Additionally, a 30GB mobile data bundle is included, giving businesses the flexibility to work on the go. These perks reaffirm Safaricom’s commitment to providing businesses with everything they need to thrive in today’s digital-first economy.

Getting Started with Safaricom Business Fibre

Signing up for Safaricom Business Fibre is easy, and there are multiple ways to get started:

1. USSD Code: Dial *485# from your Safaricom line and follow the prompts to select a plan.

2. Visit a Safaricom Store: With over 50 retail stores across the country, you can visit any branch for assistance.

3. Online Signup: Head to business.safaricom.co.ke to view packages and sign up directly.

4. Authorized Dealers: Safaricom has a network of authorized dealers across Kenya to assist with setup.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Business with Safaricom Business Fibre.

As I reflect on my experience with Safaricom Business Fibre, I can say that it has exceeded my expectations on many fronts. Not only has it provided a fast and reliable connection that enhances productivity, but the added features and value have also contributed significantly to the overall experience. Whether it’s the peace of mind that comes with backup mobile data, the enhanced communication through the Closed User Group, or the security provided by content filtering, these packages are designed with the modern SME in mind.

The 100Mbps plan I’m currently on has transformed how my business operates daily. From seamless video conferencing to quick downloads, and zero downtime, it has allowed me to focus on what matters most?—?growing my business and delivering value to my clients. And while the cost is slightly higher than my previous provider, the quality and consistency make it a worthwhile investment.

If you’re a business owner in Kenya looking to upgrade your internet, I highly recommend exploring Safaricom Business Fibre. It has options for businesses of all sizes and offers a solution that not only meets your current needs but also scales with you as your business grows. Reliable, fast, and designed with Kenyan businesses in mind, Safaricom Business Fibre could very well be the connectivity solution that elevates your operations to new heights.