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Business Internet Options: Dedicated, Broadband, and Satellite

Understand the key differences so you can choose with confidence.

Updated this week

Internet Types

When choosing internet for your business, most providers offer three core options: Dedicated Internet, Broadband Internet, and Satellite Internet. Each comes with unique strengths, pricing, and performance considerations.

Use this guide to quickly understand the differences, compare them side by side, and decide what’s best for your business.


Dedicated Internet

Dedicated Internet gives your business a private connection with symmetrical upload and download speeds. Because you’re not sharing bandwidth with others, performance is consistent—even during peak hours.

Typical delivery methods include:

  • Fiber optics

  • Ethernet over copper (Metro Ethernet, bonded T1)

  • Fixed wireless (line-of-sight antennas)

Best for businesses running mission-critical applications, video conferencing, or large file transfers.


Broadband Internet

Broadband Internet—often called shared internet—offers fast speeds at a lower cost. Multiple users in your area share the same bandwidth, so speeds may drop during peak usage.

Common types include:

  • Cable internet

  • DSL

  • Shared fiber (e.g., AT&T Business Fiber, Verizon Fios)

Best for businesses seeking a budget-friendly option that still supports email, cloud apps, and general connectivity.


Satellite Internet

Satellite Internet connects through orbiting satellites instead of land-based networks. It’s available almost everywhere, making it a solid choice for remote locations.

Keep in mind:

  • Speeds and reliability can vary

  • Higher latency compared to wired connections

  • Weather can occasionally affect performance

Best for businesses in rural or hard-to-reach areas without reliable wired infrastructure.


Quick Comparison

Dedicated Internet

Broadband Internet

Satellite Internet

Best For

Performance

Consistent, private line

Shared, may slow at peak hours

Variable, higher latency

Dedicated: critical performance Broadband: everyday use Satellite: remote access

Speed Symmetry

Symmetrical upload / download

Usually download-heavy

Often download-heavy

Businesses needing balanced vs. casual

Reliability

High

Moderate

Weather-dependent

Depends on needs

Cost

Higher

Lower

Moderate to higher

Budget vs. performance

Availability

Business areas, urban & suburban

Widely available

Almost everywhere

Location-based choice


In Summary

  • Dedicated Internet → Best if uptime and performance are mission-critical.

  • Broadband Internet → Best if you want affordability with solid speeds.

  • Satellite Internet → Best if you’re in a remote area with limited wired options.

All three options are available on Telecom.live™—just enter your address to see which providers and services are available at your location.

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