Many modern businesses rely on data-heavy applications, such as cloud services and video production, which can overwhelm the capacity of traditional internet services. Insufficient bandwidth leads to frustrating consequences, including reduced productivity, delayed file transfers, and disrupted communication. Thankfully, effective solutions are becoming increasingly accessible.

Meeting high bandwidth demands requires high bandwidth solutions. Older technologies like T1 lines and even DS3 bandwidth (45 Mbps) have become insufficient for many businesses. While Ethernet over Copper and fixed wireless offer improved speeds (50-100 Mbps), they too are becoming inadequate. This leaves fiber optic WAN services, available in SONET and Ethernet formats, as the superior options.

SONET, a long-standing standard developed by telephone companies, offers high-speed data transmission. Options range from OC-3 (155 Mbps) to OC-12 (622 Mbps). OC-24 (1.2 Gbps) is less widely accessible, potentially requiring a jump to OC-48 (2.4 Gbps). In select cases, OC-192 (10 Gbps) and OC-768 (40 Gbps) are becoming available to businesses.

Although SONET addresses bandwidth limitations, its historically high cost posed a barrier. While competition has driven down prices, the need for bandwidth often outpaces budget growth. Fortunately, Ethernet over Fiber (EoF) offers a compelling alternative.

EoF boasts several advantages over SONET. It utilizes familiar Ethernet technology, streamlining integration with existing networks. Moreover, EoF generally costs significantly less per Mbps than comparable SONET bandwidth. This affordability stems partly from increased market competition following the deregulation of telephone companies. Unlike SONET, often reliant on local phone companies for the final connection, EoF benefits from competitive carriers who own and operate their fiber networks, offering flexibility and competitive pricing.

Carrier Ethernet, as it’s known, prioritizes scalability. SONET operates on fixed bandwidth tiers (OCx), each with specific interface requirements that lack interoperability. Upgrading to a higher OC level necessitates physical modifications and network adjustments by the service provider.

In contrast, EoF utilizes ports with maximum speeds but no minimum limitations. A typical installation might involve a 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet or 1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet port. This allows for easy bandwidth upgrades (e.g., from 200 Mbps to 500 Mbps or even 1000 Mbps) with minimal lead time, often within a few days, compared to the weeks or months required for traditional upgrades.

Installation remains a practical concern. Many locations lack existing fiber optic infrastructure, but the availability of Metro Ethernet Networks is rapidly expanding, particularly in business districts. Businesses located in colocation centers or utilizing cloud computing services are especially likely to have access to multiple fiber optic providers. This allows for the strategic relocation of demanding applications to bandwidth-rich environments while maintaining a lower-speed connection, such as Ethernet over Copper, for less demanding needs.

Collaborating with other tenants in an office building or park can make a location more attractive to fiber carriers. Pooling bandwidth requirements increases the potential customer base, making the investment more appealing to providers. This collaboration can potentially reduce or even eliminate construction costs depending on the commitment level.

To explore available options for increasing your business bandwidth, consider researching and requesting a free consultation on high bandwidth fiber optic network services.