How have these dedicated internet connections improved and how do businesses benefit more now?
Smaller businesses today (typically up to 10 employees) use a fibre broadband service, such as FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) or FTTP (Fibre to the Premises). A major difference between fibre broadband and a dedicated connection, such as a leased line is that a fibre broadband service is typically shared (or contended) amongst other businesses via the same local communications exchange, whilst leased lines offer a private circuit that’s reserved only for you. The main improvements over the last few years have been in improved reliability and in speeds. FTTP circuits can offer download speeds of up to 1000Mbps (with upload of up 115Mbps) while leased lines can deliver symmetrical speeds of up to 10Gbps, completely uncontended and with no slow-down during peak business hours.
How are dedicated connections used by businesses?
Dedicated internet connections are instrumental for businesses in maintaining a reliable and fast internet service, which is crucial for various operations. Here are some services and operations that businesses typically use dedicated connections for:
VoIP and Telecommunications: Voice over IP (VoIP) and other telecommunication services require a stable and fast internet connection to ensure clear and uninterrupted communications.
Video Conferencing: With the rise of remote work, video conferencing has become a staple in many businesses. A dedicated connection ensures smooth video calls and virtual meetings with collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams.
Cloud Services: Accessing cloud-based applications, data storage, and other cloud services requires a reliable internet connection, especially for businesses that rely heavily on the cloud for their operations. As an example, an organisation may be using CRM, accounting, and marketing applications all via the cloud.
Data Backup & Recovery: Regular backups and the ability to quickly recover data are crucial for business continuity. Dedicated connections provide the bandwidth needed for these operations.
File Sharing and Collaboration: In environments where large files are shared or collaborative work is conducted online, a dedicated connection supports fast and efficient file sharing.
Remote Access and VPNs: Dedicated connections provide the reliable and secure connectivity required for remote access to the business network via Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
Content Streaming and Distribution: Companies involved in media, content creation, or distribution require robust internet connections to stream or distribute content efficiently.
Security Systems: Modern security systems including surveillance cameras and access control systems often rely on a reliable internet connection for monitoring and alerts.
What are the business benefits?
Reliability
A major advantage of having a dedicated business internet connection is the increased reliability and faster connectivity speeds. For many businesses, being left without an Internet connection for days would be disastrous. Dedicated Internet connections come with a service level agreement (SLA), which guarantees which provide fix times in as little as 5 hours. All Telappliant leased lines come with an SLA with guaranteed fix times and 24/7 phone support.
High Performance
Because the line is reserved for your business alone, you have sole access to the bandwidth, with no contention from outside. This means that during any point of the day, you will get 100% performance both upstream and down for making and receiving phone calls, sending and downloading large files and video conferencing.
Scalable and Flexible
Bandwidth speed is fully customisable and can be scaled from as little as 10Mbps through to 10Gbps, depending on your individual business internet requirements, meaning that you only pay for what you need. The symmetrical connectivity means that you get a consistent speed both ways, making for a more productive workforce that is also able to utilise cost-effective cloud services.
Cyber Security
Having a secure connection is a priority for any business, and with a dedicated connection your network is safer because it is solely used by you. With point to point connectivity, it is easier to deploy security applications, firewalls and authentication protocols, used solely by your personnel.
How long does it take to install a dedicated connection, such as a leased line?
The installation time for a leased line can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the specifics of the installation site, the service provider, and the type of leased line being installed. From our experience here are the typical timelines:
Targeted Installation Time: A typical targeted installation time for a leased line is about 30 days from the order date to activation. However, this can be influenced by several factors such as the complexity of the installation and the readiness of the site. Where a location may not have had a leased line before, additional “dig” work may be required to deliver the physical cabling to a premises.
Average Installation Time: On average, the installation process for a leased line can take between 45 to 90 days. This broad range indicates that the circumstances of each installation can significantly impact the time required.
Can I get a temporary Internet connection while my leased line is being installed?
Yes. You can use a 4G or 5G mobile broadband service. Mobile broadband can be utilised as a temporary internet connectivity solution provided through the 4G (or 5G) mobile network while your business broadband service is being installed. This allows you to have internet access during the installation period. Additionally, a 4G backup service serves as a secondary internet connection provided via the 4G mobile network. It comes into play when there is a total loss of connectivity. Mobile internet enables reliable and uninterrupted internet connectivity for these temporary and secondary services.
How much does a dedicated connection cost?
Dedicated connections cost from as little as £249 per month, compared to shared connections which average at around £50 per month for an FTTP connection.
For further advice about how a dedicated connection could benefit your business or if you would like to discuss an IT solution for your organisation then please contact us for a straight conversation on how we can help.
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