VoIP users urged to defend against natural disasters

Large companies protect their internet connections and VoIP services from the effect of natural disaster by setting up satellite links.

But such is the expense that smaller companies would likely find it impossible to do the same.

However, leasing the technology may provide a lower cost option for those firms that require protection against the loss of their internet connections.

"Generally when hurricanes, tornadoes, typhoons or other natural disaster devastates an area, the internet providers are down anywhere from one to six months," said Wes Holden, chief executive of custom software developer Asevotech.

"This can be fatal to the small and midsize companies who desperately need these kinds of services."

Leasing either a trailer-mounted or self-standing satellite unit can provide a way around such situations, with wireless broadband and VoIP services with up to eight voice line connections meaning a business can get back on track.

"Instead of buying all this equipment outright, we lease it to the business at a substantial savings to them," Mr Holden said.

Typically contracts can last anywhere between three months and 24 months, with a monthly fee payable - but some businesses in areas of risk may see this as a guarantee that they can continue operating no matter what the conditions.