South Africa currently faces a digital divide concern where the Internet isn’t as accessible as it should be. Solving the issue of Internet inaccessibility isn’t solely in the hands of political leaders but also in the emergence of small businesses.
The telecommunications sector can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you have plans of becoming an Internet service provider (ISP), it’s possible. Here, we have outlined steps that you can follow to start selling Internet in South Africa.
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Telecommunications
Being an Internet service provider will require you to be knowledgeable about the industry and to get tech-savvy. You don’t need to be a full-on tech guru or engineer, but it’s crucial that you are passionate about technology, and knowing about computer networking is the foundation.
If you have no prior knowledge of computer networking, there’s a vast range of tools and information available at your fingertips. Platforms like the Cisco Networking Academy offer free courses like the Networking Basics course that teach you everything you need to know about how networks operate.
Step 2: Choose Your ISP Model
There are different types of ISP models. Some of these are: fibre, wireless, satellite, and hotspot-based services.
The best one for you would depend on a range of factors, which include your location, budget, as well as the audience you intend to sell to. Do your homework and decide what’s best for your business.
For instance, Fibre Internet might not be the best option if your target location has limited infrastructure, as fibre requires underground cabling, which can be quite costly to roll out. In this case, the more realistic alternative would be Fixed Wireless Access.
Step 3: Know the Regulations
It’s crucial for any business owner to be aware of the regulations that govern their industry. In South Africa, you need to register with ICASA, which stands for the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa.
ICASA serves as the official regulator of communications, broadcasting and postal services sectors in South Africa.
They put regulations in place and issue licences to telecommunications providers. This authority exists to ensure South Africans can access affordable communications services.
Step 4: Have a Solid Plan
Every successful business needs a solid plan to succeed. Start by choosing the right structure for your business. Will you be a sole proprietor, a Pty (Ltd), or something else? Choose what works best for your unique situation and legal obligations.
You must draft a business plan. Too many entrepreneurs treat a business plan as a suggestion, only to end up shooting themselves in the foot. A business plan serves as your guide, leading you through each phase of your business.
Outline your goals, your target market, what services you’ll offer, how you’ll market them, and your financial projections.
Step 5: List All Your Equipment Needs
Identify what infrastructure you need for your business. A list of things you might need includes:
- Routers
- Antennas
- Towers or poles
- Subscriber dishes
- WiFi access points
- Network cabling
You will also need to have secure internet connectivity. You must have a reliable, scalable internet source. Don’t lock yourself into a low-bandwidth contract that can’t grow with your customer base.
Step 6: Build a Realistic Budget
Plan for operational costs such as hardware, such as servers, network equipment and customer premises equipment, monthly internet costs, installation expenses, marketing, and regulatory compliance.
Additionally, factor in staffing costs for technical support, sales, and administration, as well as ongoing maintenance and software licensing fees. Having a budget helps you avoid overspending, manage growth effectively, and ensure long-term financial sustainability.
Step 7: Set Up Your Network
From your planning stage, avoid making mistakes like using a flat or bridged network, as that may cause business interruptions in the long run. Plan your network for scalability and stability from the start.
Prioritise security by using firewalls, secure logins, and data protection protocols. This allows you to protect your network from hackers.
You should also manage IP Addresses wisely. You can start with one public IP and use Carrier-Grade NAT if needed. This allows you to share a single public IP address among multiple subscribers.
Step 8: Market Your Business and Acquire Customers
Identify your target audience; that way, you can tailor your offerings and speak in a manner that relates to them. Make sure you build an online presence by creating a website, setting up your social media pages, and being active online. This makes it easier for customers to discover and trust you.
Additionally, ensure your brand identity resonates with your market and reflects your values. You can also see value from advertising your brand locally. Start simple by handing out flyers, reaching out to community radio stations, or local papers, and improve your marketing approach as the business scales.
Step 9: Deliver Outstanding Customer Service
Business isn’t just about getting customers, but it’s about retaining them as well. Customer service is essential for small businesses to thrive. To have great customer service, you must prioritise putting your customers first through care and support.
In business, not everything is about having cheaper prices. Customer service can set you apart from the competition. Ensure that you and the people you hire are responsive, helpful, and respectful towards customers.
