Ethernet First Mile Explained

There are various options when it comes to network connectivity. The importance of a fast and stable internet connection cannot be over-emphasised for business productivity and a streamlined customer experience. For those organisations that rely heavily on the internet, a dedicated, full-fibre Ethernet First Mile line can provide speeds up to 20Mbps download and upload with no sharing, enhanced resilience and 24/7 UK support. Here we explain what Ethernet First Mile is so that you can decide whether it’s right for your business.

 

What is Ethernet First Mile?

 

Ethernet First Mail (EFM) is a type of high bandwidth connectivity comprising a fibre connection that runs directly from the network into your premises, providing a dedicated connection that is not shared amongst other organisations.

 

The committed bandwidth and matched upload and download speeds allow businesses to benefit from valuable business tools such as Office 365 and other cloud solutions, as well as carry out large data transfers without any concern over network capacity and speed dropping.

 

What are the benefits of Ethernet First Mile?

 

There are various benefits to be enjoyed courtesy of Ethernet First Mile:

 

• Connectivity speed – almost twice as fast compared to feeding fibre into the building
• Reduced expenditure – no need for a leased line into the premises
• Nationwide availability – EFM is readily available right across the United Kingdom

 

One of the greatest advantages of EFM is that because the connection is not shared, security is guaranteed and resilience is enhanced. With the service automatically re-routed should any element fail, your business can operate virtually risk-free with uninterrupted uptime.

 

What are the alternatives to Ethernet First Mile?

 

Where a lower bandwidth is required, Fibre-To-The-Cabinet (FTTC) or Fibre-To-The-Premises (FTTP) are often used instead.

 

Whether you go for an EFM or fibre connection really comes down to individual business needs. EFM is usually faster to install, because it makes use of existing copper circuits, whereas fibre often needs additional engineering work.

 

Other factors to consider when choosing between Ethernet First Mil and fibre include:

 

Reliability – because they use light for data transmission, fibre optic connections will remain unaffected by electrical interference, faulty electrical devices or being too far away from an exchange. These factors can sometimes be a downside of EFM connections can be.

 

Cost – on the other hand, Ethernet First Mile costs are often more economical then fibre, although this can vary from location to location.

 

Speed – Ethernet First Mile delivers good connection speeds, but fibre can exceed them considerably, sometimes five times or more faster.

 

Tailored network solutions for your business, from PC Docs

 

Whether you are just setting up in business, or are relocating or expanding, PC Docs can provide you with the networking expertise and network solutions you need to make certain your business stays connected around the clock.

 

It is important to bear in mind that not all network solutions are made equal, and that networking needs vary greatly from one organisation to another.

 

Our highly experienced networking technicians here at PC Docs have been in the industry for over two decades, designing and installing network infrastructure for businesses of all sizes in a range of industry sectors.

 

To learn more about our network connectivity services and to discuss your individual business needs, you are welcome to get in touch.