19 Dec Switching ISPs? Questions Every DMV Business Should Ask
Switching your business internet provider isn’t just about finding a lower monthly bill. For DMV-area businesses, your internet connection supports everything from cloud applications and video conferencing to phone systems, payment processing, and security tools. Choosing the wrong ISP (Internet Service Provider) can lead to downtime, frustrated employees, and lost revenue.
An ISP is the company that delivers your internet connection and often manages related infrastructure, service guarantees, and technical support. Before making a switch, it’s important to ask these questions to ensure your new provider truly supports your business needs.
Question 1: What speeds does your business actually need?
Most ISPs advertise fast download speeds, but upload speed matters just as much for businesses that rely on video meetings, cloud-based software, file sharing, and remote access [1]. Ask whether speeds are symmetrical (equal upload and download) or asymmetrical [2], and confirm what performance looks like during peak hours, not just “up to” speeds.
Question 2: Is the connection reliable, and do they offer an SLA?
Internet downtime can bring operations to a halt. Ask whether the provider offers a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that guarantees uptime, response times, and repair commitments [3]. Business-class services typically provide stronger reliability and accountability than consumer-grade plans.
Question 3: What happens if there’s an outage?
Support quality matters just as much as speed. Ask:
- Is support available 24/7?
- Will you speak to a local technician or a national call center?
- How quickly are issues typically resolved in the DMV area?
Knowing who to call (and how fast help arrives), can make all the difference during an outage.
Question 4: How long will installation take?
Some services can be installed quickly, while others, like fiber connections, may take weeks or months depending on your building. Ask for a realistic installation timeline and whether construction or internal cabling is required to meet your deadline [4].
Question 5: What are the contract terms and hidden costs?
Before signing, understand [1]:
- Contract length and renewal terms
- Early termination fees
- Installation or activation charges
- Promotional pricing versus long-term rates
Transparent pricing now helps prevent unpleasant surprises later.
Question 6: Can the service scale as your business grows?
If your business plans to hire, add devices, expand locations, or increase cloud usage, your ISP should grow with you [3]. Ask how easy it is to upgrade speeds or services and how quickly changes can be implemented.
Partner with a provider who understands local business needs
Choosing the right ISP isn’t just a technical decision, it’s a strategic one. NewConnect helps DMV businesses evaluate providers, plan installations, and manage transitions so your internet supports growth instead of slowing it down. If you’re considering a switch, contact NewConnect today to discuss your needs and timeline.
Sources:
- https://www.truenorthit.com/7-questions-to-ask-a-new-internet-service-provider/
- https://www.lftfiber.com/news/10-questions-your-business-should-ask-before-signing-with-an-isp#:~:text=When%20choosing%20an%20internet%20service%20provider%20(ISP)%2C,be%20talking%20to%20if%20there’s%20a%20problem
- https://gonewconnect.com/checklist-for-selecting-an-isp-in-washington-dc-for-your-business/
- https://www.optimum.com/articles/internet/switching-internet-providers-guide
