With much to consider when deciding what to base your large business' voice and data network infrastructure on, the task can be a complicated and frustrating. Determining which network to use - T1, DS3, OCx, fiber, Ethernet, etc. - is an important business decision. You want to ensure your employees' needs for laptop, PDA, etc. are met.
With each office becoming a cheap Ethernet port for connectivity, the emphasis is on end-to-end Ethernet architecture at all layers. These layers include the physical interface, service and transport layers. In common areas like the executive lounge, lobby, and other areas, broadband wireless will be accessible.
When talking about backhauling traffic back towards the service provider, it's important to know that service providers have invested heavily in their E1s and T1s. While end-to-end Ethernet infrastructures are promising, a lot rides on the service providers overhauling their access networks.
Something else to consider is the demand for such products and services. Managing Ethernet SLAs in a similar fashion as E1s and T1s therefore demands an equivalent to the smartjack devices. While they are available now, an increase in the demand for such products is currently needed to reduce the costs. There's no sense adding cost to the E1/T1 revenue stream, right?
While the push for bandwidth products is towards Ethernet and packet, TDM (T1/E1) will continue to dominate the market for the next few years. This is a result of the sync requirements of tall buildings such as hotels, resorts and casinos which have masts at the top for their cellular access. These needs will increase the development and deployment of Ethernet for such standard bodies as MEF and also the equipment vendors.
Large companies can also offer laptop connectivity via a data card that makes use of their cellular network, especially since cellular carriers now offer WiFi access (co-located).
In order to handle the additional bandwidth needed by these "front-end" air interfaces (i.e., WiFi, WiMAX, 2G, 3G, 3G+, HSPA, LTE and WiMAX), E1s/T1s (PDH) can backhaul these needs.
With Internet/data access being in such high demand for employees, conferences or other meetings, large businesses should consider adding this type of broadband service to their buildings. While VoIP is an inexpensive option, most employees or clients would use their cell phones or the business' phone lines.
In summary, any large company or enterprise looking to upgrade or modify their current bandwidth needs must carefully consider what their employees' needs are, including their business clientele who would utilize conference rooms. Doing their homework and researching all bandwidth products versus their business' needs will save time and money in the long run. Never sign up for any bandwidth product until this is done.
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