An enterprise network provider helps businesses connect and manage their communication systems. They offer many different services, like enterprise Wi-Fi, to keep operations connected. Choosing the right provider means understanding their offerings, comparing your options, and finding the best fit for your business.

What to expect from reading our article:

• An explanation on what to look for in an enterprise network provider
• A list of challenges and solutions businesses face when choosing a provider
• The ability to understand the different types of enterprise network providers
• An answer to why Meter is your go-to option for enterprise network needs

What should an enterprise network provider offer?

The right provider will do more than keep your business connected; they’ll help you stay flexible, secure, and ready for whatever’s next. Choosing an enterprise network provider is kind of like picking the right partner for a group project—someone reliable who won’t disappear when things get tough. So, how do you make sure you’re teaming up with the right one?

Can they handle the workload?

When it comes to tech, you need a provider with serious muscle. Your business needs bandwidth that can handle heavy data loads, especially if you’re streaming, sharing, or storing a ton of information. Ask about options to scale up as you grow—nobody wants to deal with network slowdowns because the bandwidth couldn’t keep up.

Redundant routing is your insurance policy. Think of it like a safety net. If one connection fails, there’s a backup to keep things running. And don’t just take their word for it—find out how fast those backups kick in during an outage. Downtime can be both frustrating and expensive. Best to avoid it from the outset.

Smart tools will help keep you in control. Providers with advanced network management tools let you:

• Monitor traffic
• Catch problems early
• Fine-tune performance

Bonus points if they offer real-time analytics or customizable dashboards. It’s like having a dashboard for your car—you need to know what’s going on under the hood.

Look for bundle deals. The best providers simplify your life by bundling hardware, software, and management services. Less time managing vendors means more time focusing on your actual work.

Is your data safe, or are you crossing your fingers?

Good security is non-negotiable for any enterprise network. An enterprise network provider that fails this criteria doesn't deserve a second glance. If they don't have strong encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems (IDS), they might as well invite the bad guys in. Ask about how they handle threats and protect sensitive data.

Are they keeping up with the rules? Depending on your industry, you might have regulations like HIPAA or PCI DSS breathing down your neck. Make sure the provider knows how to stay compliant.

Proactive beats reactive. Look for providers that go the extra mile rather than simply reacting to issues. They should offer:

• Routine updates
• Consistent monitoring
• A solid plan for staying ahead of new threats

Every network needs a bodyguard, technologically speaking. Your provider's version of one should be both buff and vigilant.

SLAs that actually mean something

Providers make plenty of promises...but can they deliver? Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are where the provider puts their guarantees in writing. Check the fine print on uptime, response times, and what happens if they drop the ball. If the SLA is vague, that’s a red flag.

Good support is everything when something goes wrong. Look for providers with a solid track record of fast response times and real humans available 24/7, if not most of the time. Bonus points if they offer a dedicated support team who knows your business.

Will they grow with you, or hold you back?

Scaling up without falling apart is the name of the game these days. Your provider should be ready to scale up as your business grows—whether that means more employees, new locations, or adopting fancy new tech. The network should grow with you without falling behind.

Flexibility is the secret sauce on the network infrastructure burger. The best providers offer growth as well as the ability to adapt to changing technologies. Integrating IoT devices? Not a problem. Supporting hybrid cloud setups? No sweat. Flexibility is a cornerstone for businesses looking to expand.

Is it worth the money?

Cheap isn’t always cheerful. While nobody wants to overspend, focusing too much on the lowest price can backfire. A bargain provider might save you a few bucks now but cost you more in downtime, poor support, or hidden fees later.

Think long-term ROI. Look at what you’re really getting. Reliable service, strong security, and great support can boost productivity and reduce risks. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means saving a lot in the long run.

Choosing the right provider is harder than it looks

Picking an enterprise network provider isn’t as easy as checking off a list of features. There are hurdles—some obvious, some sneaky—that can trip you up if you’re not prepared. From navigating tech headaches to keeping costs under control, here are eight challenges you might face and how to tackle them.

Tech that refuses to cooperate

Compatibility can be a nightmare. Old hardware, mismatched protocols, or systems that don’t sync can slow everything down. For example, legacy routers might not support IPv6, leading to communication breakdowns. And when different vendors’ tools don’t integrate, your team ends up juggling too many systems.

Look for a provider with experience in mixed environments and tools that support APIs for easier integration. Bonus points if they offer hands-on help during setup and testing to avoid downtime.

Meter provides modern networking solutions built to integrate effortlessly with your existing systems. We make setup simple, minimize disruptions, and guarantee your network is equipped to handle current and future needs.

Keeping hackers out and data safe

Cyberattacks and evolving regulations make security a top concern. A basic firewall won’t cut it anymore, especially with threats like ransomware and DDoS attacks lurking. On top of that, meeting compliance standards like GDPR or HIPAA adds another layer of complexity.

Seek out providers with advanced security features like:

• WPA3 encryption
• IDS
• Real-time monitoring (from a single dashboard is even better!)

Providers with security certifications show they’re serious about protecting your data. Also, consider a partner that offers security training for your team—your people are the first line of defense.

Getting stuck with outdated tech

Technology changes fast. If your provider can’t keep up, you’re left with tools that can’t adapt to new demands. Future-proofing is a priority here. Pick a provider that:

• Uses open standards
• Supports software-defined networking (SDN)
• Regularly updates their systems

Providers investing in automation can also help you stay ahead by predicting and fixing issues before they happen.

The price isn’t always what it seems

Hidden fees and unclear pricing structures can make budgeting a guessing game. Scaling costs, additional support charges, or unexpected fees for advanced features can quickly add up.

Transparency is important. Ask for a clear breakdown of costs, including fees for scaling and support. Compare pricing models—some providers offer predictable flat rates, while others might work better with pay-as-you-go options.

Meter's pricing model offers a clear and straightforward solution. We combine hardware, software services, and maintenance into a single, predictable monthly fee. You'll avoid unexpected costs and simplify your budgeting process.

Growing pains that slow you down

If your network can’t scale, it’ll hold you back when your business grows. Adding locations, onboarding more employees, or integrating new tech shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth.

Look for a provider with scalable solutions that grow with you. Features like SDN and virtualized networks make scaling faster and more efficient, keeping performance strong as your demands increase.

Customer support that’s MIA

When things go wrong, a good support team comes in clutch. However, some providers fail to deliver, leaving you waiting on hold while your network issues drag on. Test their support before signing a contract. Providers offering ongoing help and fast response times are worth their weight in gold.

Trouble with multi-cloud or hybrid setups

More businesses are moving to multi-cloud or hybrid environments, but not all providers can handle the complexity. Poor cloud integration can lead to:

• Bottlenecks
• Downtime
• Limited functionality

If you happen to be working with a cloud platform, then look for a provider with cloud connectivity. Make sure they support fast, reliable data transfer between environments.

Sustainability isn’t on their radar

With sustainability becoming a priority, partnering with a provider that doesn’t care about their environmental impact can hurt your reputation and long-term goals. Providers using energy-efficient data centers or renewable energy sources can help with this. Some even offer carbon-neutral options, helping your business align with green initiatives.

Trends shaping the future of enterprise networking

Enterprise networks are changing quickly, tackling everything from faster speeds to tighter security and greener operations. High-speed connections and smarter networks are grabbing attention, but there’s a lot more going on under the surface that’s worth exploring.

Faster networks are opening new doors

A slow connection simply won't cut it. With Wi-Fi 6, 5G, and newly available frequency bands, businesses now have access to ultra-fast, low-latency wireless speeds that keep pace with modern demands. From IoT devices to mobile teams, more users and systems are getting flawless connectivity.

Mobile workforces and IoT deployments gain greater productivity and more room for innovation. Meanwhile, in data centers, 400 Gbps has become the new benchmark, supporting:

• Real-time processing
• Massive workloads
• Automated applications

What does this mean for you? Faster networks unlock real-time collaboration, edge computing, and the ability to handle data-intensive tasks. They give businesses the capacity to scale and innovate without interruptions slowing things down.

Smarter, automated networks are taking over

Automation is changing how networks are managed. Intelligent systems now recognize devices, check their behavior, and decide if they can be trusted. They don’t just detect issues—they respond to them automatically, reducing downtime and improving security.

Smarter networks mean less time spent fixing problems and more reliable performance overall. IT teams can focus on long-term goals instead of constant troubleshooting, making operations smoother and more efficient.

Networks that understand your goals

Intent-based networking (IBN) takes things up a notch by aligning your network with your business’s goals. It builds on SDN, using automation and analytics to turn what you need into clear, actionable policies. IBNs keep an eye on performance and adapt in real time, whether the focus is cutting costs, boosting reliability, or improving user experience.

Instead of reacting to problems after they happen, IBN makes networks proactive. They adjust on the fly to changes in demand or shifting priorities, ensuring the network keeps up with your needs every step of the way.

Zero-trust security is becoming the norm

With cloud services and remote work on the rise, the old idea of a secure network perimeter doesn’t work anymore. Zero-trust security steps in by assuming no one and nothing can be trusted. Every access request gets verified, and attackers have fewer ways to move around if they manage to get in.

This isn’t just an upgrade—it’s an essential need for today’s businesses. Zero-trust keeps security consistent and strong, no matter how or where you operate.

What kind of enterprise network provider fits your business?

The right provider depends on your business’s size, goals, and how much flexibility or control you need. Picking an enterprise network provider isn’t always an easy choice. There are a few major types out there, each with its own perks and pitfalls.

Traditional telecommunications providers

Consider traditional telecom providers as the veterans of the networking world. These networking equipment companies have been around forever, building massive infrastructure to offer reliable voice, data, and Internet services. If your business needs wide geographic coverage or operates in areas where newer providers haven’t set up shop yet, they’re a solid choice.

But being old-school has its downsides. Many telecom providers still rely on older technology that’s not always quick to adapt. That can make scaling up or implementing new features a bit like trying to teach an old dog new tricks. And don’t expect much customization—they’re more about standardized packages, which might not fit your business like a glove.

So, if your operations are spread out and stability matters most, a telecom provider could be the answer. Just don’t expect them to be cutting-edge innovators because they’re usually not the first to embrace new tech trends.

Cloud-based providers

Cloud-based network providers focus mostly on flexibility. These providers make it easy to scale up or down based on what your business needs, all while cutting out the hassle of managing physical hardware. If you’re growing fast or have a remote workforce, cloud-based solutions are a smart move.

The pay-as-you-go pricing model is a big draw, saving you from hefty upfront costs. Plus, their adaptability means you can customize your network setup without needing a ton of hardware upgrades. Need a VPN for your remote employees? Done. Looking for advanced security protocols? They’ve got you covered.

That said, there’s a catch: your Internet connection.

A cloud-based network is only as good as your Internet provider. If your connection is spotty, you might run into latency issues or downtime, which can throw a wrench in your operations. It’s worth checking your Internet reliability before diving into the cloud. Also, while security is typically solid, the shared nature of cloud environments can introduce unique challenges, so make sure your provider has the certifications and safeguards your business needs.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs)

Managed Service Providers, or MSPs, are like the extra help your IT team didn’t know they needed. These computer networking companies manage the tough stuff—network management, monitoring, and maintenance—so your team can focus on the bigger picture. If your business lacks in-house expertise or you just want someone else to handle the daily grind of keeping your network in shape, MSPs are a no-brainer.

One of the best things about MSPs is their specialized knowledge. They’re the type of people who can sniff out a potential network issue before it even becomes a problem. Plus, they often handle everything from monitoring to setting up advanced security measures, so you can rest a little easier.

However, handing over control does come with some trade-offs. You might find that customization options are limited since MSPs use standardized tools and processes to keep things efficient. Plus, while they’re great at scaling services as you grow, the pricing can sometimes feel a bit unpredictable, especially if your needs shift a lot.

Vertically integrated networks

Vertically integrated networks (VIN) are like the cool new kid on the block. It bundles everything you need—hardware, software, and management—into a single service. If you want a network that’s easy to set up and run without a big upfront investment, then this is the one you're looking for.

With VIN, you’re not stuck buying expensive hardware outright. Instead, you get the enterprise network equipment you need, and it’s all taken care of, from maintenance to upgrades. You also receive predictable costs, making it a lot easier to budget.

What makes VIN stand out is how simple it is. You don’t have to worry about managing tools from different vendors or figuring out how to integrate new systems. Everything just works, and it’s designed to scale as your business grows. Providers like Meter take it a step further by simplifying network management while keeping everything flexible and reliable.

How do you decide?

It all depends on what matters most to your business. If you value stability and reach, traditional telecom providers might make sense. MSPs are ideal if you want expert support and less day-to-day issues. Cloud-based providers are unbeatable for flexibility, especially for remote teams. VIN gives you simplicity and scalability without the hefty upfront costs.

Think about your goals, your challenges, and what kind of relationship you want with your provider. The right fit must be about more than tech. You have to find a partner who supports your success every step of the way.

Choose Meter for your enterprise network needs

Meter’s vertically integrated network solution redefines what you should expect from an enterprise network provider.

Meter simplifies network management by handling everything in one place, so there’s no need to coordinate between multiple vendors. We can coordinate ISP selection, custom network design, equipment, and the full installation, plus ongoing network monitoring and support. This end-to-end solution frees up network engineers to focus on bigger projects instead of everyday troubleshooting.

Here's what makes Meter's services stand out:

• Integrated solution: Meter combines hardware (i.e., switches, routers), software, and network management into one package, eliminating the hassle of managing separate systems.
• Scalable options: Our VIN grows with your needs, reducing the need for costly upgrades or complex reconfigurations.
• Complete management: From ISP negotiations and network design to ongoing support and monitoring, Meter handles it all.
• Enhanced security: Security appliances built into our VIN protect your network from potential threats.
• Performance monitoring: The Meter dashboard offers real-time tracking to spot and resolve issues before they affect your operations.

For reliable performance, security, and scalability, contact Meter today.