Constant connectivity and collaboration is more important than ever before for small businesses. Connections matter, but it’s not just about networking with the right people. Success depends on having the right technology in place to seamlessly connect with customers, suppliers, and employees. Here are five steps small business owners can follow to give their businesses the best chance to succeed this National Small Business Week (4/28-5/4) and beyond: 

1: Evaluate Bandwidth Needs 

Specific bandwidth needs will vary from business to business. For instance, a small office with a handful of employees likely has different bandwidth and connection needs than a 100-seat restaurant with a state-of-the-art point-of-sale (POS) system and a robust Wi-Fi network for its patrons. 

2: Add More Layers of Technology 

Build on an Internet connection with business-grade technology solutions, such as cyber-security tools and Wi-Fi-enabled data analytics, that gives companies insight into how to run their operations more efficiently. 

3: Lock up Critical Data 

Ensure you are prioritizing basic data security steps such as installing anti-virus/malware protection and making sure your Wi-Fi connection is secure. According to the 2023 Comcast Business Small Business Cybersecurity Report, the company blocked over 390 million phishing attacks targeting small businesses in the second quarter of 2023.  

4: Leave Room for Growth 

As small businesses expand, they need technology infrastructure that can keep pace. The right connectivity partner is prepared to keep up with your evolving needs, whether for a restaurant adding a new location or a company with a growing and distributed workforce. 

5: Select a Strong Mobile Phone Provider  

A strong mobile provider offers data options for each user to provide flexibility in their plans and a wide range of devices to meet specific technology needs, since no two small businesses are the same.