Internet access is now so widespread that we take it for granted. Thanks to ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line), the technology that enables high-speed broadband connections over the phone lines, households and small businesses alike have the option of a fast connection for a fixed monthly fee.
However, standard ADSL services have their limitations if you want to send large files. ADSL, as its name suggests, is not symmetric so the asymmetric transfer rates provided by ADSL are designed to optimise the speed of Internet downloads. As a result, the upload speed on ADSL is relatively much slower, meaning that the service is less suitable for uploading more data from your location to the Internet.
While this is usually adequate for domestic users who spend most of their time downloading, it makes little sense for a business that both sends and receives high volumes of data. Marketing and advertising agencies, photographers, architects, designers and printers are among the heaviest users, but these days all kinds of businesses regularly exchange large files. Internet virtual private networks are used regularly by remote workers who are accessing files or email from their office network.
Customers who use ADSL services, such as Demon HomeOffice and Business Broadband, can also experience speed variations both ways (downstream/upstream) during peak usage periods because they are sharing their network with other users. During very busy periods speeds can decline.
Customers who need to be sure of guaranteed connection speeds should choose a service such as Demon Premier Broadband, which offers businesses a choice of upstream and downstream bandwidths, and-is a cost-effective alternative to more expensive Leased Lines.
Premier options
Most ADSL services are built on shared networks – low cost but with variable speeds – whereas Premier Broadband is built on the broadband network to achieve a relatively low cost, but is engineered with bandwidth dedicated to a few users or even a single customer. This allows a dedicated or near dedicated service and customers can benefit from performance that is near to that of a dedicated leased line at a fraction of the cost.
With Premier Broadband, you can opt for an SDSL connection (subject to availability at your local exchange). This is 'symmetric', compared to 'asymmetric' ADSL, meaning that upstream and downstream speeds are the same. While the highest available download speed may be lower than with the fastest ADSL tariffs, uploads can be considerably faster. It adds up to better overall performance, with the added reliability of low contention.
Faster fix times
Talking about higher standards of service is one thing, but with Premier Broadband you get the reassurance of having them set down in black and white. That means we tell you how quickly you can expect us to get your service up and running; within how many hours we'll fix any faults that may arise in the future; and how fast we'll implement any changes that you request to your configuration. Furthermore, THUS also offers a service credit regime as part of its Standards of Service*. This provides an extra level of assurance for all of Business and Premier Broadband customers, as it sets out exactly what minimum levels of performance customers can expect from their service.
For the greatest level of support, you can opt for a managed service. We'll configure and install your chosen customer premises equipment (CPE) to get you connected with a minimum of fuss, and in the event of any hardware fault we'll come back and fix it onsite. To get the most out of your service, you'll have constant access to our extranet, providing detailed reports on your network usage and performance. Statistics can also be downloaded in the industry standard CSV format for analysis in your own spreadsheet or other software.
Managed service customers also benefit from priority support and even faster fix times for any issues that may arise.
Affordable
With prices starting from £60 installation followed by £65 per month (ex VAT), including router hardware, every business that relies on its Internet connection should consider Premier Broadband. Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading from another Demon service, you could be seeing the benefits within a month. To find out more about the options and check availability in your area, see http://www.demon.net/demon/products/internetaccess/premierbroadband or call us now on 0800 027 0963.