Assessing Connectivity Providers: Strong Digital Foundations

Are you advancing your digital transformation and assessing providers for Network Connectivity, IP Transit, Cloud Connectivity, or DDoS Protection? If so, it's crucial not to forget about quality in your digital foundations. Expensive, slow, unreliable, or inflexible and you’ll be put at risk. These are all words that customers use when it comes to dealing with the suppliers that underpin their digital transformation strategies. RETN was formed to solve these problems and our success has come from eliminating them.

In this piece, we interview three experts with substantial experience in high-bandwidth connectivity. They provide insights into what you should anticipate when engaging with a data network partner, ensuring a seamless progression on your transformation journey.

Amy Bajer, Managing Director Poland and Central & Eastern Europe, RETN:

Looking beyond specific providers, industry trends are pushing for continual development and modernisation. Innovations like 400G technology and expansion into the most strategic Points of Presence (PoPs) are becoming industry standards. This reflects the growing demand for faster, more efficient network infrastructures that can support the digital transformation journey of organisations.

Considering the global landscape, interconnections with various regions are paramount. Providers should offer strong links to regions that matter to your business, be it Asia, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, or elsewhere. High cybersecurity standards are non-negotiable in today's threat environment, so ensure that your chosen provider prioritises security.

The importance of selecting the right network connectivity partner cannot be overstated. Efficiency, agility, and responsiveness in your digital foundations are the keys to mitigating risks and supporting your organisation's growth. Whether you choose RETN or another provider, these considerations should guide your decision-making process.

In conclusion, the selection of a network connectivity provider is a critical decision that impacts the very foundation of your digital infrastructure. Whether you choose RETN or another provider, these considerations - quality, local expertise, international reach, budget management, and security - should guide your decision-making process, ensuring that your digital foundations are efficient, agile, and responsive to your business needs.

Dariusz Antczak, Commercial Director Poland and Central & Eastern Europe, RETN:

For companies in Poland and beyond, leveraging an international provider is fundamental. This is particularly vital when it comes to internet access. Ensuring that your data doesn't traverse multiple networks between the source and destination is essential. The efficiency of this data path can be a key measure of your Network Service Provider's (NSP) performance. Selecting an international provider with a strong, well-connected network can significantly impact your data's journey and the quality of your connectivity.

In my experience, it's crucial to assess a provider's approach to customers. Whether you're evaluating RETN or any other provider, consider factors such as their adaptability and the breadth of services offered. A provider with a range of services, from IP transit to colocation and cloud solutions, can cater to your evolving needs.

Local infrastructure also matters. Providers with their infrastructure in key locations offer quicker, more agile services. A customised approach, tailored to your unique requirements, ensures that you're not boxed into standardised solutions. Furthermore, in today's dynamic business landscape, budget considerations are paramount. Seek a partner that can assist you not only in cost optimisation but also in fortifying your security measures. A provider that understands the importance of balancing budgetary constraints with robust security can help you navigate these challenges effectively.

William Manzione, Product Manager, RETN:

When selecting a network connectivity provider, the primary focus should always be on quality. It's vital not to overlook the quality of the digital foundations you're building. The efficiency, agility, and responsiveness of these foundations are critical to mitigating risks effectively. In my experience prioritising cost alone and opting for the cheapest provider can often lead to dissatisfaction, resulting in the need to cancel contracts and return to the market. It's crucial to ensure that your chosen provider has a reputation for availability and robust support, mitigating the risks associated with subpar service. Even more important is the ability of a network service provider to adjust to your rapidly growing needs in bandwidth or protection services or downsizing those if needed; flexibility and agility are crucial and we understand that better than any other operator on the market.

One key consideration is the provider's network coverage. Look for a provider with a robust network that spans regions relevant to your operations. A network with a substantial share of traffic running through their own infrastructure provides greater control and security. Additionally, a widespread presence with numerous Points of Presence (PoPs) ensures reliability and redundancy.

Consider a provider's local presence and expertise - having individuals who understand local processes is invaluable. These experts can navigate regional nuances, facilitating the smooth delivery of equipment and infrastructure deployment. For instance, at RETN, we understand the importance of local support and have dedicated procurement and logistics teams in place to streamline these critical processes. We replicate this model in various countries where we operate, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our clients.