65 per cent data networks saving from BT Business

UK businesses could save up to 65 per cent 1 on the cost of connecting all their offices via a new secure, high speed data network.

BT Business, which has more than one million customers, is offering Ethernet-based services for a fraction of the cost of traditional networks. Providing uncontended, faster bandwidth at the same speed in both directions, the new services are ideal for firms transferring more data between sites including cloud computing and voice applications. With speed options from 2Mbps to 1Gb per second, users can flex their networks according to speed, size, scale and configuration as needs change.

Based on BT’s 21CN platform, the new technology is available over the UK’s biggest Ethernet footprint of more than 600 connection points. The increased reach has brought the price down. The service is available on customers’ IP VPN, internet, and new end-to-end Ethernet services. BT Business can also manage the network to free up in-house resource for other projects.

Bill Murphy, managing director of BT Business, said: “BT is investing in technology to give UK businesses a choice of data services and value for money. In these difficult times, Ethernet can help firms save thousands over old technology, increase productivity just when it’s needed most and put you in a better position for the upturn when it comes.”

Manufacturer Plastique is taking advantage of BT’s Ethernet services. Stephen Alix, financial controller said: “We now have efficient networking between sites and can support remote access over a secure, virtual private network. Web pages load in a fraction of the previous speed and business applications, such as our accounting system, use the network in real time. It will eventually transport voice traffic between sites, saving us further pounds.”

1This reduction refers to the access circuits that connect sites into our MPLS (IP VPN) networks. For example, our new EFM Access circuits, where available, start from £4,250 per annum for a 2Mbps circuit. This is 65% less than the £12,400 standard price for a 2Mbps leased line circuit on IP Converge prior to 1 October 2008. EFM is un-contended, is the same speed in both directions and has built-in resilience. Speed can be increased at extra charge up to 10 Mbps depending on availability. Connection charges apply.