Internet Drop? No Problem: How SMEs Can Beat Broadband Outages

Internet drop? No need to panic.

We all know the feeling: you’re in the middle of an important Teams call, the team’s pinging emails left, right, and centre, or you’re halfway through a support call, and orders are coming in… and suddenly, the internet drops out. Everything STOPS.

This year, we saw a rise in broadband outages caused by local network faults, cabinet issues, and general infrastructure strain, all reminders of how vulnerable many businesses still are when their internet connection fails. It got us thinking…when the unexpected happens, how many businesses have a reliable Plan B?

So, what can your business do to keep running when the internet suddenly decides to take a break?

Cable and fibres denoting fibre broadband - about us

What is FTTC?

FTTC stands for Fibre to the Cabinet. It’s a type of broadband where fibre optic cables run from the local exchange to a green roadside cabinet, and the final stretch to your premises uses traditional copper phone lines.

Why a Second FTTC Line Doesn’t Quite Cut It.

Many people’s first thought is: “Let’s just get another FTTC line as backup.” Sadly, that rarely helps.

A second FTTC line usually comes from the same cabinet and follows the same path back to the exchange. If the first one goes down, the second one often does too. True backup means real diversity — a connection that takes a completely different route.

How Big Companies Handle It

Large businesses often go all-in on resilience. They’ll have a private leased line, and sometimes even a second one, often with a different internet provider and coming into the building from a different direction.

That kind of setup means that if one line drops, the other one keeps the lights on. But being honest, for many medium and small businesses, doubling up on leased lines just isn’t in the budget.

Laptop, router and phone used by a businessman

Woman frustrated at her laptop and a man looking over her shoulder

cubes of wood with 5g and 4g written on them

Router with a man in a shirt looking at his phone in the background

So, what are the realistic options if a second leased line is out of reach?

1. 4G/5G Backup Routers

A popular option is a mobile network failover. Essentially, if your main broadband takes a nap, a 4G or 5G router instantly switches you over to a mobile connection. No downtime — your team stays online and working.

We’re especially keen on the MikroTik Chateau 5G. It’s a reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi 6 router that uses 5G to deliver strong, stable internet – even in places where traditional broadband can falter. Designed to handle multiple devices smoothly, it’s perfect for busy offices that can’t afford to grind to a halt during an outage.
With advanced security features and plenty of wired ports, it’s just as comfortable supporting a team of remote workers as it is powering a growing business. In short, when your fixed line lets you down, the MikroTik Chateau 5G is a dependable backup that keeps things running without the dreaded buffering wheel.

2. Make a DIA Leased Line Your Main Connection

For long-term, future-proofed connectivity, you can invest in a private DIA leased line as your primary internet source.

Here’s why we love them:

No Sharing: The bandwidth is yours and yours alone
Fast Fixes: Guaranteed response and resolution times, 24/7/365
No Sharing: The bandwidth is yours and yours alone

And that trusty FTTC line? Don’t throw it away, keep it in reserve. It’ll make a handy “Plan B” if your leased line ever needs a breather.

Don’t Wait Until the Next Outage

An unexpected internet outage can cost you time, customers, and revenue. The good news? A little planning can keep your business connected during whatever the year throws your way.

Whether that’s a mobile failover router, a private leased line, or both, we can help you find the right fit for your business and budget.

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