Category: Fiber

Is There a Best Time to Switch Your Business Internet Service Provider?

By Krista Lockhart • November 1, 2023
Fiber
Fiber Internet Services

A reliable internet connection is the lifeblood of most businesses. Whether you are a small startup or a large corporation, a fast and dependable internet service is essential for day-to-day operations. However, not all internet service providers (ISPs) are created equal, and there may come a time when you need to consider switching to a different business Internet service provider. But is there a best time to make this switch? Let’s explore the factors to consider when contemplating switching ISPs.

Contract Expiration:

One of the most straightforward times to consider switching your business ISP is when your current contract is nearing its expiration date. Most ISP contracts typically run for one to three years and often contain clauses specifying the notice period required for cancellation. Review your contract terms, make a note of the expiration date, and then start researching alternative providers well in advance. This gives you the opportunity to evaluate your options without feeling rushed.

Performance and Reliability:

If you’ve been experiencing consistent issues with slow speeds, frequent outages, or unreliable service, it’s a clear sign that it might be time to switch. Your business relies on a stable internet connection to function efficiently, and any interruptions can lead to lost productivity and revenue. Document the issues you’ve encountered and compare them with the promises made by potential new ISPs to ensure a better fit for your needs.

Dedicated Internet Service Providers include Service Level Agreements (SLAs) in their contracts to outline the terms and conditions of the services they provide, and the level of performance customers can expect. SLAs vary from one ISP to another, but they typically include provisions related to several key areas:

• Uptime and Availability: ISPs often specify the guaranteed uptime percentage in their SLAs. For example, they may commit to providing 99.9% uptime over the course of a month. If the ISP fails to meet this uptime commitment, they may offer service credits or compensation to the affected customer.

• Latency and Packet Loss: SLAs may include metrics related to latency (network delay) and packet loss (data packet drop rate). The ISP might guarantee specific performance levels in these areas, and if they consistently fail to meet these benchmarks, it can trigger SLA violations.

• Bandwidth and Throughput: Some SLAs specify minimum and maximum bandwidth or throughput levels that the ISP promises to deliver. If the actual performance falls below the agreed-upon thresholds, it can be considered an SLA violation.

• Response and Resolution Times: ISPs often define the expected response and resolution times for customer support requests or service disruptions. If the ISP takes longer than the specified timeframes to address issues, it may be in violation of the SLA.

• Maintenance and Downtime: SLAs typically outline scheduled maintenance windows during which the ISP may temporarily interrupt service. These windows are usually outside of regular business hours. The SLA may also specify the notice period required for such maintenance.

• Escalation Procedures: SLAs may include procedures for escalating service issues if they are not resolved within a certain timeframe. This ensures that more senior support personnel become involved in problem resolution.

If an ISP consistently fails to meet the SLA requirements outlined in the contract, there is typically some sort of compensation for the customer, including:

• Service Credits: ISPs may offer service credits or compensation to customers for downtime or service disruptions that exceed the agreed-upon SLA thresholds. These credits can be applied to future invoices.

• Contract Termination: In severe cases where the ISP repeatedly fails to meet SLA requirements, the customer may have the right to terminate the contract without penalties or fees.

• Renegotiation: Customers may have the option to renegotiate the terms of their contract if SLAs are not being met consistently.

It’s crucial for businesses to carefully review the SLA terms before signing a contract with an ISP and to understand what remedies are available in case of SLA violations. Additionally, customers should monitor their ISP’s performance and document any instances of SLA non-compliance. This will ensure they receive the appropriate compensation or resolution.

Changing Business Needs:

As your business grows and evolves, so do your internet requirements. If you’ve expanded your operations, added more employees, or started utilizing bandwidth-intensive applications and services, your existing ISP may no longer be able to meet your demands. Assess your current and future needs to determine if your ISP is still the right fit or if it’s time to upgrade to a more robust plan or switch to a provider better equipped to support your evolving requirements.

Cost Considerations:

Businesses are always looking for ways to reduce costs and increase profitability. If you find that your current ISP is charging higher rates than what competitors are offering for similar or better services, it might be financially prudent to switch. Additionally, be on the lookout for promotional offers and deals from other providers that could save your business money without compromising on quality.

Customer Service:

The level of customer service provided by your ISP can greatly impact your overall experience. If you’ve had repeated negative encounters with your current provider’s customer support, consider this a red flag. Excellent customer service is crucial for quick issue resolution and a smooth internet experience. Research potential new ISPs to gauge their customer service reputation through reviews and testimonials.

Technological Advancements:

The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and newer technologies can offer better internet solutions for businesses. For instance, if your current ISP primarily offers DSL or cable internet, but there’s now fiber-optic service available in your area. It may be worth exploring the switch for the significant speed and reliability improvements that fiber offers.

Why consider switching to Smart City Metro? 

Smart City Metro’s advanced fiber technology ensures seamless network functionality. Our top-notch 100% local service and support elevate your experience to excellence. With 50 years of experience, we offer enhanced reliability and flexibility with unparalleled personal assistance. Get the tailored Enterprise-class network services you require, delivered via our state-of-the-art all-fiber network, and reinforced by the highly responsive, locally-based customer support you’ve been longing for. 

While there may not be a single “best” time to switch your business internet service provider, several factors can help you determine when it’s the right moment for your specific circumstances. Be proactive in assessing your current ISP’s performance, contract status, costs, and customer service to make an informed decision. By doing so, you can ensure that your business stays connected and competitive in today’s digital landscape.

When you’re ready to make the switch to a faster, more reliable Fiber Internet Solution, contact one of our Dedicated Account Executives at 407-828-6400. Our team will help you choose the best services for your business and create a customized, scalable option to meet your business demands.

All-Fiber Network Provider Expands in Central Florida, Giving Businesses a New Choice

By Krista Lockhart • October 27, 2023
Fiber
Internet
Wi-Fi
Smart City Van

Smart City Metro, an infrastructure-based connectivity provider, is rapidly expanding throughout Central Florida with the buildout of its new, all-fiber network.  With this strategic expansion and locally based presence, Smart City Metro is now ready to serve organizations as a reliable partner, offering cutting-edge connectivity solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of its customer base.

“In this highly competitive market, we are excited about what this expansion does to bring better choices to the businesses in the Central Florida and Space Coast regions,” said Nicholas Lenoci, vice president, Sales and Marketing. “With a portfolio of all-fiber Internet and Ethernet solutions, Hosted Voice, SD-WAN and cloud services, we have the communication services to compete and the nimbleness to deliver.  We can quickly help organizations change their communication services to meet their evolving needs and deliver solutions that help them thrive and grow.”

Smart City Metro has already built over 700 miles of its all-fiber network across Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Polk, Lake, and Brevard Counties, delivering high-performing, secure fiber-based connectivity to businesses in the region. They plan to continue to expand the network and launch industry-leading fiber and cloud-based solutions.

With deep roots in the area and a corporate office in Lake Buena Vista, Smart City has been a trusted partner of the Walt Disney World Co. and the neighboring hotels, restaurants, homes, condominiums, retail stores, and other businesses since 1971, and the Orange County Convention Center since 2003.  The company’s long history of innovation includes delivering the first fiber-optic network in the nation and the first 911 service in Florida.  Today, the company operates one of the most advanced telecommunications platforms available.

As a locally owned and operated subsidiary of Smart City, Smart City Metro sets itself apart from its competitors by providing an elevated experience with hands-on, personalized customer service.  Smart City’s founders and employees believe the company is more than just a reliable Internet service. It’s about operating with integrity without compromise, delivering what they say, and focusing on providing superior customer satisfaction.

“Smart City has progressive leadership and an innovative corporate history going back more than 50 years,” states Lenoci. “Right now, we have something special. We are a small but growing privately held company.  We are dedicated to providing a personal level of service, treating our customers with respect, and being there for them when they need support. We believe that customer service is at the core of everything one does in a business or organization. If a company provides good service, it will be rewarded with growth.”

Lenoci added, “Being a Central Florida-based operator, it’s that personal touch that we provide. We live in the communities that we serve.  We connect with our customers. And we are dedicated to delivering best-in-class products and services.”

Smart City Metro, a subsidiary of Smart City, is a locally based alternative to traditional telecommunication services to businesses in the Central Florida and Space Coast regions. As a full-service communications service provider with an advanced all-fiber network, the company offers Fiber Internet and Ethernet Access, Hosted Voice and Unified Communications, Managed Services, and colocation and operates a local 24×7 Network Operations Center.  To learn more about Smart City Metro’s services, go to https://smartcitymetro.com/services.

 

Smart City: Your local provider, with a locally based team and owned fiber network.

    • Full-service telecommunications company headquartered in Orlando.
    • Facilities-based provider, with an extensive network throughout Central Florida and the Space Coast.
    • Proven delivery and support experience.
    • Locally based customer service and technical support.
    • 24×7 local Network Operations Center for remote support.

 

“We are excited about what this network expansion does for the businesses in Central Florida who need a modern all-fiber network that can meet the challenging demands of organizations of all sizes. We are dedicated to providing an all-fiber network, cutting edge technology and superior customer service, and will continue to invest and expand to meet the needs of the market.”

Nicholas Lenoci, Vice President, Sales and Marketing

Smart City Metro

Nicholas Lenoci, Vice President, Sales and Marketing

Fiber Internet vs. Traditional Broadband

By Krista Lockhart • September 30, 2023
Fiber
Internet
Discover the ultimate comparison between Fiber Internet and Traditional Broadband for businesses.

Fiber Internet vs. Traditional Broadband

A Comprehensive Comparison for Businesses

In the era of digital innovation and connectivity, businesses rely on a robust and reliable Internet connection to thrive in a fast-paced, interconnected world. The choice between Fiber Internet and Traditional Broadband is a decision that can significantly impact a company’s operations, efficiency, and growth potential. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences, benefits, and considerations of Fiber Internet and Traditional Broadband, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your business goals.

 

Speed: The Need for Speed in Business Operations

Fiber Internet’s speed is nothing short of revolutionary. With speeds up to 10 Gbps or even higher, businesses can enjoy lightning-fast uploads, downloads, and data transfers. This translates into seamless video conferencing, rapid file sharing, and quicker access to cloud-based applications, allowing teams to collaborate without frustrating delays.

Traditional Broadband, while suitable for basic tasks, may struggle to keep up with the data-intensive demands of modern businesses. Slower upload and download speeds can lead to bottlenecks, hindering productivity and stunting innovation.

 

Reliability: Uninterrupted Connectivity for Mission-Critical Activities

In the realm of reliability, Fiber Internet shines brightly. Its dedicated lines and advanced infrastructure provide a stable and consistent connection, even during peak usage hours. This is crucial for businesses engaged in real-time activities such as video conferencing, online transactions, and remote collaboration.

Traditional Broadband, on the other hand, may experience fluctuations in speed and connectivity due to shared lines and a less robust infrastructure. Unreliable connections can disrupt workflows, harm customer interactions, and even lead to missed opportunities.

 

Scalability: Growing Your Business Seamlessly

As your business expands, so do your connectivity needs. Fiber Internet offers scalability that can accommodate your growth without sacrificing performance. Increased bandwidth ensures that your operations remain smooth and efficient as your business reaches new heights.

Traditional Broadband may struggle to keep up with your evolving demands. Upgrading bandwidth or accommodating more users might not be as straightforward, potentially resulting in productivity bottlenecks.

 

Upload vs. Download: Achieving Balanced Performance

Fiber Internet boasts symmetric speeds, meaning that upload and download speeds are nearly identical. This is a game-changer for businesses engaged in activities such as video conferencing, online backups, and remote server management. The ability to send and receive data at similar speeds ensures smoother collaboration and enhanced efficiency.

Traditional Broadband often offers higher download speeds than upload speeds, creating an imbalance that can impact tasks that require data to be sent from your end, such as video uploads and data backups.

 

Security: Safeguarding Sensitive Information

Security is paramount for businesses handling sensitive information. Fiber Internet’s dedicated lines and advanced infrastructure contribute to a more secure environment. Data encryption and enhanced network protection protocols offer an extra layer of defense against cyber threats.

Traditional Broadband, while providing basic security measures, may be more susceptible to breaches due to shared lines and a less secure infrastructure.

 

Why Smart City Metro Fiber Internet?

Smart City Metro Fiber Internet provides customized Enterprise-class network services you need, delivered over our all-fiber network, and backed by the most responsive, locally-based customer support you’ve been missing. With scalable, guaranteed symmetrical bandwidth options to 10 Gbps and beyond, Smart City Metro’s all-fiber network enables the speed, flexibility, and redundancy you expect from a carrier-class network.

  • Symmetrical upload and download speeds up to 10 Gbps.
  • No data overage fees.
  • Scalability and tiered service customized to fit your needs.
  • Redundant architecture for added stability.
  • Technical support. 24/7/365 monitoring by our locally based Networks Operations Center.
  • Customer services. Personal access to your Dedicated Account Executive for planning and one-call access to service and support functions.

 

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

In the ongoing battle between Fiber Internet and Traditional Broadband, the verdict is clear: Fiber Internet emerges as the superior choice for businesses seeking speed, reliability, scalability, balanced performance, and enhanced security. Its cutting-edge technology and robust infrastructure empower businesses to embrace digital transformation, foster innovation, and maintain a competitive edge in today’s interconnected world.

Before making your decision, consider your business’s unique needs and objectives. A reliable, high-speed connection is not just a technological upgrade – it’s an investment in your business’s success and growth. Make the switch to Fiber Internet and unlock a world of possibilities for your business’s digital future. Contact one of our dedicated Senior Account Executives to upgrade your business to Fiber Internet today at 407-828-6400.

Elevating Property Management with Fiber Internet

By Krista Lockhart • September 1, 2023
Fiber
Wi-Fi
Property Managers - Managed Wi-Fi

Elevating Property Management with Fiber Internet

Empowering Amenities and Delighting Tenants

Having Fiber internet can revolutionize the way property or community managers manage their community’s amenities, offering them better control and efficiency. With Fiber’s lightning-fast speeds and stable connectivity, property managers can easily implement smart technologies to monitor and manage various amenities remotely. Smart security systems, automated access controls, and surveillance cameras can be seamlessly integrated with Fiber, allowing real-time monitoring, and enhancing the overall safety and security of the community. Moreover, with Fiber’s high bandwidth, property managers can efficiently manage online booking systems for amenities like gyms, pools, and event spaces, ensuring smooth reservation processes and reducing administrative burdens. The ability to remotely control and optimize these amenities with Fiber empowers property managers to deliver a more seamless and satisfying experience to their tenants, fostering a sense of community, and elevating the overall living standard within the property. Let’s investigate the benefits of Fiber Internet for property managers and tenants.

 

Empowering Community Amenities with Effortless Access Control

Fiber internet offers blazing-fast speeds, enabling property managers to take full advantage of smart technologies for managing community amenities. Fiber-powered smart access control systems enable property managers to grant or revoke access to amenities and common areas remotely. This enhances security and allows for a personalized approach, giving residents access to specific areas based on their lease agreements or membership status. Additionally, access logs can be easily monitored and analyzed, providing valuable insights for property management decisions.

 

Streamlined Property Management Software

Many property managers rely on cloud-based property management software to streamline their operations. Fiber internet ensures that accessing and managing these software platforms becomes a breeze. Load large datasets, update records, and generate reports effortlessly, all thanks to the reliable, symmetrical, high-speed fiber connection.

 

Enhanced Security and Data Protection

Property managers deal with sensitive tenant information and financial records. The security of this data is paramount. Fiber internet offers advanced encryption and data protection, reducing the risk of cyber threats and ensuring that confidential information remains secure.

 

Delighting Tenants with High-Speed Connectivity

A happy tenant is a long-term tenant. Offering Fiber internet to residents significantly improves their online experience. With ultra-fast download and upload speeds, tenants can stream their favorite content and work from home seamlessly. Fast and reliable internet becomes a selling point for your property, attracting tech-savvy individuals looking for a modern living experience.

The National Multi-Family Housing Council found that high-speed internet access is a top priority for renters. 92% of residents expressed interest in high-speed internet, while 48% would not rent without it. 64% of all tenants are using streaming services that require reliable internet service, making Reliable, Fast Internet the most important amenity for all residents.

 

Virtual Tours for Seamless Showings:

Virtual tours have become a game-changer in the real estate industry. With Fiber Internet, property managers can effortlessly conduct high-quality virtual tours for potential tenants, showcasing their units and amenities remotely. This not only saves time for both parties but also expands the reach of your property to a broader audience, including those who may be unable to visit in person.

 

Enhanced Property Value

Upgrading to Fiber can significantly enhance the value of your property. Forward-thinking tenants are increasingly seeking high-speed Internet as a crucial factor when choosing their residence. By offering Fiber, you make your property more attractive to potential renters, leading to reduced vacancies and increased rental rates.

 

Differentiating Your Property

In a competitive rental market, standing out from the crowd is essential. Offering Fiber-optic internet can be a key differentiator that sets your multi-tenant building apart from others. Prospective tenants will see your property as a premium option, thereby increasing interest and lease-up rates.

 

Reduced Maintenance and Downtime

Fiber-optic internet requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional copper-based networks. This results in reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs for you as the property manager.

 

Supporting Smart Home Technology

The popularity of smart home devices is on the rise, with tenants increasingly adopting video doorbells and voice assistant smart devices. Fiber-optic internet provides the necessary bandwidth to support these devices, empowering your tenants to enjoy a truly connected living experience.

 

Uninterrupted Connectivity

Fiber-optic cables are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference, ensuring a stable and consistent connection even during peak hours. This reliability ensures that your tenants can work from home efficiently, attend virtual classes, and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment, leading to greater satisfaction and less stress.

 

Reliable and fast internet connectivity is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. Embracing Fiber internet in multi-tenant properties is a wise investment that brings a multitude of benefits to property managers and residents alike. With Fiber’s high-speed connectivity, property managers can effortlessly control and enhance community amenities, conduct virtual tours to attract prospective tenants, manage access controls efficiently, and provide secure and convenient entry devices for individual units. The result is a seamless and delightful living experience for tenants, differentiating your property, and more efficient property management overall.

By staying ahead of the technological curve and investing in Fiber internet property managers can elevate their communities to new heights of satisfaction and success. Upgrading your multi-tenant building to Fiber-optic internet is a strategic move that promises a host of benefits, both for your tenants and your property. Embrace technological evolution and elevate your multi-tenant building to new heights with Fiber Internet from Smart City Metro. Talk to one of our dedicated representatives at 407-828-6400 and find out how your community can benefit by making the switch to Fiber Internet. Your tenants will thank you for it!

Transforming Banking Experiences with Smart City Metro Solutions

By Krista Lockhart • August 1, 2023
Fiber
Internet
Telecommunication
Better Internet for Online Banking

In the rapidly growing banking industry, a modernized network is essential for providing outstanding customer experiences. Smart City Metro is aware of the difficulties faced by financial institutions. We examine how our products transform banking operations, improve security, and improve the client experience.

Empowering High-Speed Connectivity: Banks can get our Dedicated Fiber Internet service with unmatched speeds and dependability. Customers’ whole banking experience is improved thanks to a seamless online transaction, real-time account access, and quick data transfer made possible by this. Customers can benefit from faster response times, rapid access to banking services, and improved digital interactions thanks to Fiber Internet, which boosts customer happiness and loyalty.

Streamlining Communication Channels: A powerful solution that transforms financial communication is Hosted Voice. It creates a single platform that includes audio, video, and messaging features, allowing bank personnel to collaborate more easily and improve client experiences. Hosted Voice gives banks the ability to offer customers effective, individualized, and dependable communication channels, developing better client connections and speeding up response times. Options like call forwarding, auto-attendants, and voicemail to email are just a few of the options available.

Ensuring Secure and Agile Banking Operations: Data protection is crucial for banks at a time of rising cyber threats. Banks may increase security, agility, and network performance with the help of our SD-WAN solution. The use of SD-WAN enables safe and dependable connections between bank branches, data centers, and cloud services by leveraging cutting-edge encryption techniques and intelligent routing. This creates a trusted environment for financial transactions by enabling seamless data transfer, improving application performance, and protecting client information.

Adapting to Emerging Technologies: Banks with Dedicated Fiber Internet have a future-ready infrastructure that can acclimate to rising technologies with the help of our modernized network solutions. Our tools can easily interface with and support new technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things as the banking sector adopts them. This puts banks in a position to take advantage of cutting-edge technology for customized banking experiences, increased operational effectiveness, and higher customer engagement.

Banks require a modern network infrastructure if they want to improve customer experiences and beat the competition. Our products give banks the means to reinvent their business processes, step up security, and provide outstanding customer service. By working together with Smart City Metro, banks may modernize their networks, improve their communication channels, and adopt cutting-edge technology, ultimately forging enduring bonds with their clients and fostering commercial success in the fast-paced world of banking. Help enhance your clients’ experiences and your financial Institutions data protection with Dedicated Internet Access, Hosted Voice, and SD-WAN products today. Learn more at https://smartcitymetro.com/services/ or call us at 407-828-6400.

5 seconds.

Your Location

Let us know the location you'd like to get our services

Request Your Free Technology Assessment

For Florida business services only! Find Home Services.