Ethernet First Mile (EFM) Continues to challenge SDSL as the market leader for cost-effective corporate level 1:1 connectivity.

EFM uses the same existing BT copper to deploy but uses multiple copper pairs that are linked at the exchange as well as by bespoke BT equipment at your location.

The key advantage of EFM is much higher 1:1 contention bandwidth for only a small increase in cost.

The setup cost tends to be higher than SDSL, however the presentation on site is RJ45 (similar to your LAN setup) so there is no need in most cases to purchase a bespoke router to convert the signal: you can just connect straight to your internal network, firewall etc. This can often offset the setup cost difference against an SDSL install plus a router.

Because EFM uses the existing BT infrastructure, delivery time can be as short as three weeks (like SDSL, the main factor is BT engineer availability to do the install).
Also like SDSL, EFM can be provided on a short 12 month contract.

The enhanced 24 Hour SLA is included in the monthly cost, but EFM has a built in layer of redundancy in any case due to the use of multiple copper pairs. This means is one pair should fail, the additional copper lines continue to function and will continue to deliver service while the single line issue is being addressed.

Remember:

• If you currently have a 2Mb SDSL line, you should be able to receive a 10Mb  1:1 EFM service
• If you have a 1Mb SDSL line, you should be able to receive a 6Mb 1:1 EFM service
• If you have been rejected for SDSL in the past, there is a very strong possibility that you may still be able to receive a 1:1 contention EFM line at 2Mb or even 4Mb

Like SDSL, EFM is not available at all exchanges but, if you currently have a Fusion SDSL line, you may well be able to receive EFM and, of course, we can manage a totally smooth migration between your services and usually retain your same IP address plan onto the new line.

Call us to check availability and costs with no obligation.

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