Note: This post has been guest authored by Neil Buckland who is a Leeds Business School University graduate and has been working in the Digital Industry for 5 years now. With a particular interest in Business and Global Markets, he has been writing content for various publications since graduating in 2012. When he is not writing, you can find him on the pitch for 5-a-side, reading or enjoying the occasional online video game challenge.
As you look online for something and you wait for what feels like an age for the page to load, have you ever wondered if you could do a better job of providing broadband?
Whether this has been a fleeting thought as you watch the ‘buffering’ wheel spin or you have seriously been thinking of ways to create an Internet Service Provider (ISP) as a business idea, you may be surprised to find that it’s relatively straightforward to set up on your own.
If you think you would like to join some of the big names on the market, such as BT, Virgin and Sky, here is a look at how to get started.
Your Two Options
As well as giving you the opportunity to provide an essential service, creating your own ISP can be a profitable business for you. How much you earn from this depends upon whether you opt to be a virtual ISP or you’re starting from scratch.
Also, the one you choose will impact significantly on how expensive it is to set up. Take a look at the two paths you can follow and make your choice from there.
Option One: Start Your ISP From Scratch
Creating your ISP can be an expensive option. This route will require planning and investment from your end in order to make it a success.
Some of the key steps to take when pursuing this option is to choose somewhere from where you can set up the hardware needed. This will be the central point for your ISP and it is here that you will need to route wires and set up your equipment. Your servers, routers, computers and power generators should all be set up here, too.
Spend some time researching the specific equipment you will need and use reputable supplies, such as RS Components, to ensure everything is being set up in the best way possible. You will also need a cooling system to prevent overheating.
In addition, and high-quality connectivity. When choosing your connectivity, take your time to decide between Wi-Fi, fiber optic, and ethernet. As well as finding the most suitable connectivity for your ISP, it will need to suit your budget.
Option Two: Go Virtual
A virtual ISP (VISP) is a more affordable way to develop an ISP. This is because VISPs sell the services provided by established ISPs. Operating as a franchise, the VISPs are operating under the ISP’s brand, while the ISP is able to benefit from generating business in different locations. Generally, VISPs buy connectivity services from the ISP at cut-price rates and the VISP then marks up the price again as they sell them on to customers.
If being a VISP is an attractive option for you, look into the ISPs that you would like to work with and find out as much as you can before signing up. Many ISPs will charge you a setup fee and you may have sales targets to meet. However, this can offer the autonomy of providing an internet service without having to pay put for the equipment.
Which option will you choose?
