We aren’t saying anything new by telling you that fibreoptic broadband is the way forward. Today, it’s widely understood that businesses wanting a reliable connection with high speeds should be turning to fibre. In fact, with the ‘Big Switch Off’ fast approaching (by 2025 all traditional PSTN and ISDN will be phased out) it’s a no-brainer that businesses need to be fully-fibre.
But there’s more to it than that. When it comes to providing the very best for your business, there are a few fibre options out there. Rather than trying to work it all out yourselves, we’re going to break it down to two key choices – FTTP and leased lines. We’ll be covering what they are, how they work, and why they might be suitable for your business.
What is FTTP?
In simple terms, FTTP is a broadband connection with no copper cables involved. It’s pure fibre. You can learn more about it here, but for now, that’s the main thing you need to know.
What is a leased line?
A leased line is very similar to FTTP – it’s also fully fibre – however, it’s a direct line just for your business, which connects to the public internet. You don’t have to share your line with others. No copper cables. No middleman. This a fibreoptic highway flowing straight into your business.
So, which is better?
FTTP is better suited to small businesses that want fast connection speeds but don’t transfer large amounts of data.
A leased line is better suited to bigger businesses that could benefit from having their own dedicated line. Let’s say you’re an essential organisation, such as a school or hospital, who need a strong connection, especially when up against high demand. A leased line would be a good option for you as you won’t have to share infrastructure with others, so you won’t be affected by peak times.
FTTP can deliver broadbands speeds of up to 1GB – although, this is often considerably lower as you’re having to fight others for bandwidth. Even so, for your typical business, the service that FTTP will be more than acceptable. But with a leased line, you will receive the exact speeds you pay for because this is a 1:1 fibre connection.
Availability
FTTP is only available in certain areas of the UK (mostly major towns and cities). If you would like to know if it’s available where you are based, get in touch. Leased lines, however, are available pretty much anywhere. As they don’t need to tap into existing infrastructure, they aren’t bound to certain locations.
Costs
As a general rule of thumb, if FTTP is available in your area it tends to be much cheaper than a leased line. This is mostly because it isn’t an exclusive service just for your business, whereas a leased line is. However, while a leased line may have higher costs, you will receive higher connection speeds. Perhaps that’s a price you’re willing to pay.
Get in touch
Interested in switching to FTTP or a leased line? Or interested in hearing more details specific to your business? Get in touch with the Equations team today. We know everything there is to know about these options (so you don’t have to!) and will consider all the individual needs, factors and preferences of your business.
Give us a call on 01237 420010.
