Purpose
Keep the business online with stable primary internet, a ready backup, and a secure router setup.
Context & Assumptions
- Small teams in Suriname, CARICOM, and the Netherlands.
- Cloud apps and payments matter more than raw speed; downtime is costly.
- Power can be unstable; mobile coverage varies indoors.
Core Guidance
Connection choices (pick what fits availability):
| Option | Use when | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber | Available; need stability + good uploads | Install fees; contract terms |
| Cable/DSL | No fiber; moderate speed is fine | Distance to exchange; low uploads |
| Fixed wireless / 4G-5G | Need quick setup or backup | Data caps; indoor signal |
| Satellite | Remote sites only | High latency; keep as backup |
Targets:
- Uptime goal 99%+. Speeds (down/up): Solo 25/5 Mbps; Small team 50-100/20; Cloud/POS + video 150+/50.
- Always keep a backup path: hotspot or second ISP on a different network.
Backup & Resilience
- Mobile hotspot/SIM from another provider ready to go.
- For critical uptime, add dual-WAN router with failover between two ISPs.
- Protect modem/router (and switch) with UPS for 30-60 minutes where power is unstable.
Secure Setup Checklist
- Change admin password; enable WPA2/WPA3; disable WPS.
- Create guest Wi-Fi separate from business devices; wire POS/VoIP where possible.
- Enable QoS for payments/VoIP/video; update firmware quarterly.
- Label and store ISP credentials, router config backup, and last failover test date.
Regional Notes
- Suriname: Compare Telesur (fiber/DSL), Digicel (fixed wireless/4G), plus local ISPs; confirm install timelines and business SLA.
- CARICOM: Coverage differs by island; check data caps and business support hours for fixed wireless.
- Netherlands: Fiber/cable common; prioritize upload speed, support response, and value.
Evaluate Providers (10-minute filter)
- Typical peak-time speed and measured uptime.
- SLA and response times for outages.
- Upload speed, caps, throttling rules.
- Static IP availability if hosting services or VPN.
- Total monthly cost: install, equipment, taxes, contract term.
Costs (local variance)
- Business line: ~€30-70/mo; Business fiber with SLA: ~€80-200/mo.
- Backup data SIM: ~€15-40/mo; hotspot device: €50-120 one-time.
- UPS for modem/router: €80-150 one-time.
Monthly Test Routine
- Trigger hotspot or failover and confirm devices reconnect.
- Check UPS runtime and battery health.
- Run a quick speed test (peak hours) and note results.
- Review firmware/software update status.
Related Documentation
- Essential Infrastructure Overview
- Computer Equipment
- Mobile Devices
- Security Basics
- Backup & Disaster Recovery
Disclaimer: Informational only; validate local providers, contracts, and regulations.