Essential internet features to meet modern technology demands
A version of this story was originally published on MultifamilyExecutive.com.
Multifamily owners should not mistake high-speed internet as a “nice to have” amenity. In fact, according to the 2024 National Multifamily Housing Council Renter Preferences Survey Report high-speed internet is a priority for 90% of renters. Like electricity, gas, and water, a quality internet connection is now viewed as a must-have utility.
As residents increasingly rely on high-speed internet for work, entertainment, and smart home devices, their expectations rise. Multifamily owners need to adapt to these demands to remain competitive.
According to Jeff Johnson, director of consumer sales for the West Region at Quantum Fiber, there are three essential internet features that every multifamily property must have to provide a quality internet amenity that meets both current and future needs.
Jeff Johnson, Director of Consumer Sales for the West Region, Quantum Fiber
The Top Three Internet Features
Speed, reliability, and a secure network with cyber protections are three critical internet features for multifamily connectivity, explains Johnson. While speed is a top priority, Johnson notes that reliability and cybersecurity should also be considered when choosing an internet service provider (ISP) for multifamily properties.
Upload/Download Speed
Today, multifamily owners are asking for a minimum of 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) of speed. “That is the new normal,” says Johnson, but that number will likely keep growing. Today’s fiber network typically accommodates multi-gig symmetrical speed for residents. “That’s going to allow for future technology to happen.” With fiber-to-the-home or fiber-to-the-unit, a community’s infrastructure is prepared to accommodate technologies like augmented reality (AR) and 8K video streaming as they become mainstream.
Reliability to Stay Connected
An interruption in internet service can lead to frustration and resident dissatisfaction. Reliable internet means residents can count on it working consistently. Uptime refers to the amount of time a network is operational and available for use. Tier 1 ISPs, also known as backbone internet providers, own and manage their infrastructure and invest heavily in their network to ensure high uptime. Their global network allows them to access multiple routes and quickly re-route traffic on backup paths to minimize service outages.
A Solid Defense
Owners and multifamily residents need more than just an on-ramp to the internet. Bad actors may not initially attack through a multifamily company’s IT department. Instead, they may target residents or employees with email-based schemes and ransomware attacks. Generative AI (GenAI) has emerged as a new threat, with nearly 47% of organizations citing it as their primary concern. “While cybersecurity threats are serious, that shouldn’t stop owners and builders who want to invest in technology solutions to modernize and smart-equip their communities,” explains Johnson.
The residential industry must embrace the future to stay competitive. “Residents are increasingly looking for properties that offer amplified security measures and the convenience of smart home technology,” Johnson says. “Property owners should find an ISP, like Quantum Fiber, that delivers layers of cybersecurity protections.”
Investing in the Right Infrastructure
Over the past few years, the demand for online connectivity has skyrocketed, pushing technologies to evolve rapidly. Amenities like smart lockers, shared workspaces, and connected fitness centers are supported by an internet infrastructure. It is imperative that property owners invest in a connectivity solution that will adapt alongside renter preferences. A fiber network can be the right fit because of its versatility and future scalability. Multifamily owners with the right network and ISP partnership are positioned to keep up with technological advancements, giving them a competitive edge to attract and retain residents. Quantum Fiber helps multifamily property owners maximize the long-term value of their properties by tailor-designing and installing the fiber infrastructure, whether they’re building a new community or upgrading an existing building.
Check out these related resources:
- FAQ: Why do you recommend fiber-to-the-unit instead of IDF?
- Client story: Serena Rhuman faced challenges at a high-profile new community
- The essential duo: A WiFi connected smart-community and a solid defense.
More expert insights from Jeff Johnson:
Contact a Quantum Fiber Connected Communities expert to learn about connectivity solutions tailored to your multifamily community
Content Disclaimer - All content is for informational purposes only, may require user’s additional research, and is provided “as is” without any warranty, condition of any kind (express or implied), or guarantee of outcome or results. Use of this content is at user’s own risk. All third-party company and product or service names referenced in this article are for identification purposes only and do not imply endorsement or affiliation with Quantum Fiber. If Quantum Fiber products and offerings are referenced in the content, they are accurate as of the date of issue. Quantum Fiber services are not available everywhere. Quantum Fiber service usually means 100% fiber-optic network to your location but, in limited circumstances, Quantum Fiber may need to deploy alternative technologies coupled with a non-fiber connection from a certain point (usually the curb) to your location in order to provide the advertised download speeds. ©2024 Q Fiber, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Quantum, Quantum Fiber and Quantum Fiber Internet are trademarks of Quantum Wireless LLC and used under license to Q Fiber, LLC.