FAQs

SDSL

Q. What is SDSL?

A. SDSL is the Acronym for Symmetrical Digital Subscriber Line. SDSL is one of a number of services that utilise digital subscriber line (DSL) technology. The technology allows high-speed digital transmission over copper telephone lines. Maximising the frequency capacities of copper, SDSL can tap into what can be massive amounts of unused capacity to carry high-speed data traffic at the same rate in both directions - i.e. for sending and receiving data. Unlike with standard ADSL broadband, this identical 'Up-stream' and 'Down-stream' data transfer speed means that information can be sent at the same speed that it is received. Thus benefitting businesses using applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, CCTV and who host their own Websites.

Q. What is the difference between ADSL and SDSL?

A. Asymmetric DSL products such as ADSL allow information to be transmitted at a greater speed in one direction than another. So for instance an ADSL product may be receiving information at speeds 24Mbps and able to transmit at 1Mbps. Symmetric DSL products are able to send and receive information at identical rates, in each direction.

Q. What speeds does SDSL operate at?

A. Our SDSL packages offer you a choice of three different line speeds: 512kbps, 1Mbps and 2Mbps.

Q. Will I require a BT phone line?

A. No. A BT engineer will install a new line when he visits to set up your service. This is included in your set up cost. You will need to enter a BT telephone number initially in order to check whether the service is available. If you don't have a telephone line, you can use a number from a premises next door. Please note that your SDSL line cannot be used for standard voice calls.

Q. What applications can I use SDSL for?

A. SDSL is even more flexible than standard broadband due to the lack of restrictions in upload speeds. Customers will be able to utilise the technology for a wide range of business applications such as videoconferencing, accessing remote databases, teleworking, transferring large files and hosting websites in-house.

Q. Will I require different hardware in order to use SDSL?

A. Yes. An SDSL router is required for use with the SDSL service. All our SDSL packages come with a free Thomson Speedtouch 650S SDSL Router, saving you £129.

Q. Do I need an engineer visit?

A. An engineer will visit your premises to install the SDSL line. The visit will not include the set up of your router or network.

Q. Can I supply my own hardware?

A. Yes. However, in order to get the most from your SDSL connection, we strongly recommend that you use the hardware that we supply. The Thomson Speedtouch 650S SDSL Router has been specifically designed for small and home offices and, where it's supplied by us, we'll provide technical support in configuring and setting up the router, should you require it.

Q. Can I use a standard broadband router?

A. No. SDSL technology is very different from ADSL technology and therefore requires alternative equipment.

Q. What's the contention rate?

A. SDSL services have a maximum contention rate of 10:1, compared to standard broadband contention rate of 20:1 or 50:1.

Q. Why would I have SDSL when I can get standard broadband?

A. SDSL offers guaranteed, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and therefore increased reliability and quality of service. If you would benefit from an increase in upload speed (e.g. for sending lots of emails, large files, or videoconferencing), SDSL would definitely be a better option than standard broadband.

Q. Will I need a firewall?

A. Yes, as with any 'always on' internet connection, a firewall is highly recommended.

Q. How many IP addresses can I have?

A. IP address allocation is unlimited, subject to the successful approval of a RIPE form.

Q. Is there a period of commitment for the service?

A. The minimum period of commitment is 12 months.

Q. Can I have domain email?

A. Domain email is available for a small additional fee.

Q. How can I pay?

A. Payment can be made by direct debit, credit/debit card, BACS or invoice.