BroadBand Nation

Who Is Broad Sky Networks

2012-02-02T05:43:00.000-05:00

Broad Sky Networks was founded by Telecommunication and Technology experts to provide a single source for the delivery of Business Class Broadband Satellite, 3G/4G , WiMAX and Optical Wireless Broadband services. In addition to offering superior wireless services Broad Sky also provides other ancillary services to fulfill service portfolio requirements to allow customers to stay focused on their business.

What You Should Know About Broad Sky Networks

WiMAX

Broad Sky Networks now offers Spectrum WiMAX, a fixed wireless solution in 60+ markets. Their Spectrum WiMAX bypasses the local telco, so installation can happen in days, it is easy to deploy and scale and offers bandwidth from 2Mbs to 1000Mbs for a fraction of the price. Our WiMAX guarantees 100% uptime, managed services as well as Point to Point offerings.

* Major Metropolitan Areas
* Primary or Redundancy
* Provides SLAs
* Large Bandwidth, 2Mb – GigE speeds
* Great for fluctuating bandwidth needs
* Point to Point services

3G/4G

Broad Sky now offers their Spectrum 3G Fixed Wireless service, covering 90% of the United States population. Broad Sky's 4G covers 38 markets coast to coast. Spectrum 3G/4G service is a great alternative to DSL, they use all 3 major carriers, offer innovative equipment bundles and flexible pricing options. Broad Sky also offer a fully managed 3G service perfect for retailers, banking, M2M, etc. with Mobility options as well.

* Primary, Redundancy, Mobile or Temporary
* Average 3G speeds of 1.5K x 384K
* Average 4G speeds of 5M-12M down 2M-5M up
* Flexible Equipment Plans and Service Plans
* Layer 3 or Layer 2 options
* Plans range from 50Mb to 10Gb, pooling plans also available
* Self Installs, ships in days

Satellite

Broad Sky offers a large range of satellite broadband solutions accommodating tele-workers to large private networks. Broad Sky is unique, they offer broadband internet from six different satellite providers all backed by industry leading Service Level Agreements. Broad Sky's satellite supports internet access, IPSec VPN traffic, POS, VoIP and Video applications. They are experts at securely linking locations anywhere in North America, South America, Alaska and the Caribbean.
Primary or Redundancy

* Speeds from 500K x 128K up to 8M x 2M
* Private Network available for primary or redundancy
* Coverage as long as clear line of site to Southern horizon
* Disaster recovery plans available

Optical Wireless

Broad Sky now offers an Optical Wireless Point to Point or Point to Multi-Point solution, iBeam providing a high bandwidth solution at a fraction of the cost of Fiber or Microwave. This solution installs quickly with no trenching or construction and provides 100M to 1Gb connectivity. This is idea for campus environments, healthcare and municipalities.

* Connectivity from 100M to 1Gb soon to go to 2.5Gb
* 1/10th the cost of Fiber
* Point to Point, Point to Multi-Point and Mesh configurations
* Installs quickly

To take advantage of what Broad Sky Networks can offer your business simnply request a free quote here ....

Broad Sky Networks

Broad Sky Networks Network Map

The Pressure for Improved Technology to Support the Financial Services Market is Here

2012-01-30T13:34:00.003-05:00

Guest blog post by Jhoan Checho, Sales Director, Financial Services Practice, FiberMedia Group

An article written by Alison Crosthwait, managing director of Global Market Structure Research titled ‘Pockets of Opportunity in 2012’ caught my attention a couple of weeks ago. She writes about the new trends facing traders today while also observing the development made over the past years that will create ‘pockets of opportunities,’ which she predicts, will create a competitively fierce market.

The seven global market structure trends cited in Crosthwait’s article are 1) consolidation, 2) The politicizing of regulation, 3) Execution Management Systems, 4) maturation of high frequency trading, 5) complex spread trading technology, 6) merger failures and resource constraints, 7) new market competition: Australia, Brazil and Korea.

While consolidation has occurred, Crosthwait is quick to observe that trading volumes have not picked up as a result. An area of interest she explores is the cost of technology and regulatory compliance. According to Crosthwait it has skyrocketed – but has it?

Yes there are greater capital requirements and the implementations to prepare for the Volcker Rule, a specific section of the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the technology changes required by companies will be expensive to implement. But does it have to be?

Certainly there are network providers that are designing and constructing new dark fiber systems to support the strict requirements outlined by the Acts, but there are also new technologies that can be deployed that can keep costs manageable. Let’s consider Cloud Computing as a manageable cost platform that financial companies can leverage. Cloud Computing, though not necessarily the optimal infrastructure for complex or even simplex transactions, it can be a highly efficient way to connect to general day-to-day operation systems and could offer a varied and effective back-up system to a number of other type of transactions. If Cloud Computing isn’t your ‘thing,’ consider the flexibility and dynamic capabilities of Ethernet switching. But that’s just the network side of it all.

A network needs a good home – a place where it has the foundation to connect to information, reliable power sources and can be in a secure – sometimes even hidden – environment that protects and assures the uptime capabilities of the equipment it contains. A company needs a data center that offers a unique infrastructure with redundant capabilities, scalable footprint that can be managed by a trusted team. And proximity to other marketplace enablers like trading exchanges and market engines as well as data platforms is inherent to finding the right data center partner.

FiberMedia knows that reliability, scalability, and security are the key foundations of the right data center partner for the financial services industry. The company also knows that budgets to manage all aspects of a business are being constrained. For 36-months, FiberMedia has guarantees a rate-lock for its services. This provides revenue assurance for companies as they are challenged with managing budgets to ensure business growth. With static costs in-tow, access to a competitive service provider landscape and proximity to the trading engines that propel your business, FiberMedia’s managed data center solutions can be the anchor you need to keep your business a float.

Find out more by contacting saleshelp@fibermedia.net today.

Windstream Fiber Network Expands

2012-01-30T06:00:00.003-05:00

Windstream has always had one of the most extensive Fiber networks across the East Coast, but thanks to their recent acquisitions of Iowa Telecom, Q-Comm, D and E Communications, Lexcom, NuVox, & PAETEC, their network has grown extensively, making them one of the most valuable carriers in the industry.

To find out more about what a Windstream fiber solution can do for your network simply request more information and a free quote here ....

Windstream Fiber Network

Telecom Provider News For January

2012-01-26T06:18:00.000-05:00

Here's the news from the Telecommunications industry for January 2012 .....

* AT&T - The Federal Communications Commission voted to approve AT&T Inc.'s proposal to buy spectrum from Qualcomm in the 700 megahertz band for $1.93 billion.

* Cbeyond - has gained Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements (SSAE) 16 Type ll SOC 2 certification for its Louisville, Ky. data center.

* EarthLink - announced that it has completed the acquisition of the IT Solution Center and hosted application business from Synergy Global Solutions, a provider of hosted IT products, services and solutions based in Western, NY.

* Integra Telecom - has made its managed PBX and hosted PBX services for business available throughout its entire footprint , rather than in just select markets.

* MegaPath - announced several enhancements to its unified threat management (UTM) security services, a move that should help further differentiate a product that already has little direct competition.

* PowerNet Global - announced the addition to its call center solutions suite with Inbound SIP DIDs to complement its outbound calling solution, NetDialer.

* Telx - announced it will expand into a 215,000-square-foot, three-story data center at 2 Peekay Drive in Clifton, New Jersey.

To learn more about any of the services cited above AND take advantage of special limited pricing deals simply request more information here ....

Dedicated Bandwidth And More

Meet Greg Hough, Executive Vice President of Network Strategy, Global Capacity @ ITEXPO

2012-01-25T13:24:00.004-05:00

Greg Hough, Executive Vice President of Network Strategy, will be speaking on the Network Procurement and Provisioning in Cloud Environments panel at ITEXPO 2012 in Miami on Wednesday, February 1st at 11am.

Session Description:
Networks are the essential part of any modern communications and must deliver reliability, availability and high performance. Access to these networks is where the rubber truly meets the road in the meaningful provisioning of telecom products and services. In order for telecommunications to work, networks must be accessible and provide a seamless connection, across town, or across the globe. The problem, however, is that networks aren’t seamless and they aren’t always easily accessible.

These realities are magnified when considering cloud-based applications and the ability to provide access to these applications, virtually, from anywhere. If the underlying infrastructure is fragmented, too small, or too expensive, cloud-based technologies can’t get off the ground. Often these critical networks are owned by multiple operators who may only control a fraction of the overall capacity. They can be uncharted and unknown. Therefore, managing the procurement and provisioning of access network interconnections remains one of the biggest sources of indigestion for cloud-based solutions providers.

The result is that many network dependent industry players today look at their current service territory as the last frontier – the only potential growth market outside of M&A. They look to their current footprint and try to figure out how to sell to the customers that line their existing local access relationships or the central offices in which they are already interconnected, effectively closing their doors (and profit potential) to markets and geographies that aren’t proximate to existing service territories.

Participants
Panelist Greg Hough brings 15+ years telecommunications experience to his role as Global Capacity’s Chief Technology Officer. He oversees the design and implementation of technology within Global Capacity’s product offering and network capability.

Other panelists at the Network Procurement and Provisioning in Cloud Environments session will include:
Hugh Goldstein (Moderator), Voxbone
John Considine, Terremark
James Thomason, Gale Technologies

ITEXPO is the event with an educational program that teaches resellers, enterprises, SMBs, and Government Agencies how to select IP-based voice, video, fax, and unified communications to purchase or resell. It's where service providers learn how to profitably roll out services their subscribers are clamoring for. ITEXPO is where buyers, sellers, resellers, and manufacturers meet to forge relationships and close deals.

Don’t miss the Network Procurement and Provisioning in Cloud Environments session, it promises to be a thought provoking and illuminating discussion. Register for ITEXPO 2012 today.

Business Ethernet By Any Other Name

2012-01-23T06:18:00.003-05:00

Business Ethernet is known by many different names and it can get confusing for a business owner, thinking that these various names are really differnt product offerings, when that really is not true. They can all be generally lumped into the category of Business Ethernet and now we can look at some of the different names that are used to describe them.

Fast Ethernet

Fast Ethernet is the type of Ethernet that you are looking at when you are talking about needing Internet bandwidth of less than 100 MB, and with some carriers, less than 50 MB. This type of Ethernet, if it is available in your area, can be delivered to your business on either copper or fiber. Contrary to popular belief, Fast Ethernet does not require fiber. Even if it is delivered on copper instead of fiber, it will has the carrier's SLA or Service Level Agreement that it is dedicated service with an uptime guarantee. Fast Ethernet is an excellent option and is very cost effective if it is available, more so than 3 or 4 bonded T1 lines. Fast Ethernet only goes to 100 MB but it can still be much more cost effective than one or two DS3 circuits at 45 MB each.

GB Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet

If what you really need from your Business Ethernet connection is a lot of bandwidth, like more than the 50 MB or 100 MB that can be delivered with Fast Ethernet, then what you are looking at is GB Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet. That does not mean that you need to have bandwidth in the GB range but rather that you need more bandwidth than Fast Ethernet can provide. It is a matter of how the service is delivered to you, and GB Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet almost certainly requires fiber instead of copper.

Metro Ethernet or Metro-E

Metro Ethernet or Metro-E is typically available to your business in large cities and larger metropolican areas. It is usually known as Metro Ethernet or Metro-E simply because the business demand for Ethernet in such a metropolitan area is usually larger, and thus much of the Ethernet infrastructure to be able to provide this level of connectivity to you is already in place. This is definitely good news for you since depending on your location, the installation time can be quicker and the buildout costs may be much smaller or even waived. Metro Ethernet or Metro-E does not designate by its name alone how much bandwidth you are looking at, since that can run almost the entire gamut of what Ethernet can provide for bandwidth.

Ethernet Over Copper

Ethernet Over Copper is a type of Ethernet that can be provisioned which is extremely cost effective, much more so than T1 or Bonded T1. As the name implies, it is provisioned over copper lines, meaning that it can be installed in 40-50 days or sooner, as opposed to about twice that amount of time for the larger Ethernet circuit discussed above. On the downside, Ethernet Over Copper is typically limited to about 10 MB of bandwidth, sometimes 15 MB, but hardly ever more than that. As an example of its cost effectiveness for a location where it is available (keeping in mind that it is not available everywhere), a 10 MB Ethernet Over Copper circuit would be almost half the cost of a 7xT1 bonded circuit at 10.5 MB.

For free assistance finding the best Business Ethernet configuration to meet your requirements ... including a free quote ... simply request more information here:

Business Ethernet

Courtesy of Jon Arnold

Prominent Data Center Veteran Joins WiredRE

2012-01-20T12:38:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week WiredRE announced the addition of Chainrai Waney as their new Regional VP and Cheif Operating Officer to support their continued national growth in 2012. It is an exciting year ahead for WiredRE, as they anticipate moving into more territories accross the US after doubling revenues in 2011.

When asked about what his plans are, Chainrai explained, "I will be teaming with WiredRE to provide research and advise investors, developers and enterprises on a range of data center topics, including strategy, finance, leasing rates, and risk management. It’s exciting to be able to leverage my experience in data centers and telecoms in a much broader arena, where today billions of dollars are being invested."

Chainrai Waney’s accomplished career path leading to his most recent hire includes notable high profile technology companies like Quantum Corporation, Apple Computer Corp and Netflix. In a senior role, he managed 24×7 data center operations at Quantum Corporation, where he implemented the company’s first in-house disaster recovery program; Apple Computer Corp where he led the effort in the acquisition and build out of data centers; and Netflix where he architected and managed data center infrastructure across eight locations. With over 25 years of IT operations and data center management experience, he is poised to be a tremendous asset to WireRE’s team.WiredRE is the nation’s leading cloud, colocation and data center real estate advisory firm.

WiredRE uses its data center knowledge to advise enterprises on data center planning, brokerage and finance. For more information about WiredRE and its holistic approach to data center real estate advisory solutions visit www.wiredre.com.

XKL’s Optical Technology – Pizza Boxes – As Easy as Managing a Cisco Switch

2012-01-19T14:21:00.003-05:00

If you can run a Cisco Switch then XKL’s fully integrated DWDM optical networking gear is the right device to light your fiber.

XKL, founded by Len Bosack who also founded Cisco Systems, has been engineering and developing high-end, low cost, efficient DWDM optical transport systems for many years. It focuses on serving new Service Providers and Enterprise businesses that want to enter the market of owning their own network, without incurring exorbitant costs.

Today, XKL empowers non-traditional carriers to be their own network managers.   Its DarkStar ® suite of products offers a compact, power-efficient, cost-effective, full-integrated ‘Pizza’ box that runs on Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) for easy deployment, monitoring and high reliability.

Bosack’s latest technology is the third generation of XKL’s product line. And as he believes, the third time is the charm!   Companies that have already been using XKL’s devices have been re-ordering – and repeat business is the best recommendation any gear could want.

XKL is currently testing, researching, and trialing a number of new technologies in order to help realize the future goal of delivering 1 terabit. With 100G barely just starting to make waves in the market, the key – according to Bosack – is creating an incredibly dense piece of equipment that uses lasers that run in higher specter efficiency. In my world, I can’t wrap my head around the physics of it all, however, when one touts that his solutions has been in continuous operation – even while software upgrades are being implemented – then he knows his stuff.   Considering Cisco’s behemoth growth since the mid-80’s when Bosack co-founded the company, XKL’s a rather young entity in a burgeoning market for sure.

For more information about XKL’s award-winning optical end-to-end DWDM gear, visit www.xkl.com.

Ethernet MPLS and MPLS Networks

2012-01-19T05:55:00.004-05:00

Are you familiar with Business Ethernet MPLS or MPLS Networks in general? If so, you know that MPLS offers a significantly more cost effective solution for connecting multiple sites than a spider-webbed point-to-point network. The advantages are abundantly clear -- with a point-to-point network, unless you spider-web it so that all nodes can communicate with all other nodes (which is prohibitively expensive), if a link goes down between nodes, then a number of nodes are cut off from your private network until that connection is restored. But with MPLS and the private cloud and intelligent routing it provides, one node being down only affects that particular node, not the other nodes on your private network.

Another advantage of MPLS Networks is that each node can be sized with the appropriate amount of bandwidth. For example, in a point-to-point configuration, if you have a PTP connection between "A" and "B", you must have the same bandwidth at both "A" and "B". But with MPLS you can have an MPLS T1 at node "A", a 50 MB Ethernet MPLS at node "B", a Bonded T1 MPLS at node "C", etc, and it will all work together very nicely.

Like a T1 line or bonded T1 line, you can also have Ethernet MPLS circuits which is generally a much more cost effective option for the same levels of bandwidth on your MPLS network.

Some companies elect to use an enhanced port to allow Internet access and MPLS access on the same circuit. While being a technical reality, the jury is still out on whether or not this makes logical sense from a security standpoint, since without proper safeguards and a secure firewall, having Internet access available on the same circuit that your private MPLS network is operating can represent a security risk, despite the financial advantage of this type of setup.

One thing in particular to note is that MPLS technology is a methodology, and it is NOT a standard. What this means to you is that every carrier implements MPLS differently, and you need to use the SAME carrier at all of your MPLS nodes. While it is theoretically possible to mix and match carriers on your MPLS network, the time, effort, and "technical jury-rigging" is frequently not worth the effort compared to using the same carrier at all of your MPLS nodes.

As long as you are using the same carrier for all nodes, you can mix and match the level of bandwidth at each node according to the type of traffic you expect to have at that node. For example, node A might just be an MPLS T1, while node B might be a 3xT1 bonded MPLS location, node C might be 10 MB Fast Ethernet MPLS, etc. This aspect is significantly different than a point-to-point circuit where the same bandwidth needs to be present at each end of the circuit.

To find out more and get free assistance designing a MPLS Network for your business .... simply request a free quote here:

MPLS Network

Courtesy of Jon Arnold

Voice Services .... Free Quotes And Assistance

2012-01-16T05:35:00.004-05:00

FreedomFire Communications offers many voice services .... and with the convergence of voice and internet commonly called VOIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol, you may often see services combine attributes of both Voice and Internet.

Some of the services FreedomFire Communications offers are Long Distance, Local Dial Tone, PRI, long distance T-1, dynamic T-1, Centrex, Voice Trunks, Trunk Groups, Telebranch, Voice Mail, Auto Attendant, IVR or Interactive Voice Response, Audio Conferencing, Toll Free, Advanced Toll Free Features (like Time of Day Routing, Area Code Routing, Percentage Allocation, Day of Week Routing, Day of Year Routing, Routing by Holiday, Multiple Destinations by Area, Origination Control, Disaster Routing), Calling Card, T-1, VOIP, Video Conferencing (Voice and Video), and many others not listed.

FreedomFire Communications is a big proponent of disaster recovery and business continuance planning .... this planning should include all voice services as well as Data and Internet. Therefore FreedomFire Communications offers every carrier’s disaster recovery plans for all of the voice services. We can help any company engineer a completely redundant fail safe voice network.

Even though Data and Internet are very important .... you can not overlook voice in today’s business. Most businesses report that any lost phone calls to their business results directly in lost business equating to thousands of dollars. Because of this FreedomFire Communications takes voice services very seriously and will help architect, design, and engineer the most reliable voice network possible.

For help with your voice network design, pricing on your voice network, or questions about any voice service offering .... simply request a free quote and assistance here:

Voice Services And Business VoIP Solutions

Len Bosack, CEO XKL LLC to present at PTC'12

2012-01-12T13:38:00.001-05:00

On Sunday, January 15th, 2:30pm, XKL’s CEO Len Bosack will present “Dark Fiber: Preparing for a Future Past 100G” at the Pacific Telecommunication Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Leonard Bosack, industry tastemaker and innovator, continues to drive technology direction, his most recent technological advancements include creating new in-line fiber optic amplification systems that can achieve unprecedented data transmission latency speeds of just 6.071 milliseconds (fiber plus equipment latency) over 1231 kilometers of fiber – roughly the distance between Chicago and New York City.

Since joining XKL, LLC, Bosack drives the development of XKL products that utilize ‘best of breed’ off the shelf components in a novel way.

His presentation at this year’s PTC’12 will review the current state of dark fiber and the necessary steps to surpass 100G. He will also share his predictions for the future of the dark fiber industry, and how we can prepare for the changes ahead. During his presentation, he will answer questions, such as:

What is in the ground now?
What should go in next?
Why does it matter?

Please attend Bosack’s presentation on Sunday at 2:30 pm to learn more about his insights on the future of the dark fiber industry. To schedule a media meeting with XKL at PTC, email pr@imillerpr.com

Data Services ... Free Quotes And Assistance

2012-01-12T05:15:00.001-05:00

FreedomFire Communications offers all of the following services and many more via relationships with over 30 top providers .... specializing in connecting offices together using all of the available technologies that each carrier offers.

FreedomFire Communications works to understand your applications and what you are trying to accomplish, and once we understand that we can propose the proper technology.

FreedomFire Communications can help facilitate corporate Local Area Network and Wide Area Networking .... or commonly called LAN’s and WAN’s. FreedomFire Communications also helps companies facilitate remote office workers or telecommuters. FreedomFire Communications can help set up any data network connectivity for anyone to access any applications to or from anywhere in the world.

FreedomFire Communications can help you connect to a disaster recovery or CoLocation facility as well. Depending on a companies reliability and uptime needs for data we can also recommended completely redundant data networks including high availability and load balancing. More and more businesses are looking for fail safe data networks and are planning on circuits going down some time .... but having automatic failover to keep the connections up and running.

FreedomFire Communications can help with zero downtime data networking as well. In fact in today's business world it is critical that you have complete redundancy on multiple carriers because downtime is not an option.

FreedomFire Communications can help you pick the right Data Connectivity for your company by analyzing and understanding your mission critical business applications. Some examples of data networks are the following ATM, Frame Relay, MPLS, Ethernet, Layer Two, Layer Three, Frame Relay, ATM, IP Enabled Frame Relay, Point 2 Point, Private Line, VPN-Public, VPN-Private, VPN-Carrier Class, and any other carrier based data connectivity. Your business applications will determine which services you need to consider.

To take advantage of what FreedomFire Communications can do for your company's data needs .... simply request a free quote and assistance here:

Data Services

What Is (EoC) Ethernet Over Copper?

2012-01-09T05:33:00.000-05:00

If you are involved in Information Technology, you have surely heard of (EoC) Ethernet over copper. This technology allows for a faster Ethernet connection so that customers can email or surf the web at faster speeds. Let us speak to you more about (EoC) Ethernet over Copper.

In order to understand how Ethernet over copper works, you should first look at the history of Ethernet technology. Ethernet is older than you may think; Robert Metcalfe, a researcher working for Xerox, invented it in 1973. Metcalfe was assigned the task of building a networking system for all of Xerox’s computers so that they could all print off the same printer. This was the first time that hundreds of computers would be connected to the same network, and the network had to move fast enough to keep up with the printer. Metcalfe worked on this project for several years; in 1979, he left Xerox to promote the use of local area networks (LAN) in personal computers.

Metcalfe’s protocol connected computers to a network using a single coaxial cable. Soon this system proved to be overly expensive to install as well as unreliable. The coaxial cable was replaced with point-to-point links connected by hubs and switches. Over time, new technology developed for faster connections.

In any event, Ethernet works by sending data packets from station to station. All Ethernet stations use the same frame formats, and network cards are often hard-wired into modern computers so that they can easily access Ethernet networks.

So where does Ethernet over copper come in? EoC is the newest type of data packet transmission technology. This technology uses copper wires to transmit data packets from one computer to another over the Ethernet network.

EoC is a fast and cheap technology; it can run a 10 Mbps Ethernet connection for a little over or under a thousand dollars a month. EoC uses 5 pairs of copper wires to run, giving it the added advantage of being able to work even if a couple of pairs become non-functional. In this case, the network will run more slowly.

The main disadvantage of Ethernet over copper is that a building must be located fairly close to the Ethernet mainframe in order to receive services. In areas where this is not possible, you can install Ethernet over serial connection, which functions similarly.

EoC has actually been around since the turn of the 21st century, but it is only recently that Ethernet installation companies have realized how lucrative a technology Ethernet over copper is.

One of the primary carriers of EoC, Hatteras Networks, offers EoC services as an alternative to fiber service in areas where fiber access is not possible. Hatteras, which is based in North Carolina, has had success connecting clients all over the world; as a result, many Ethernet carriers are switching from fiber access to EoC access in an attempt to cash in on this success.

Ethernet connectivity has had a long history. Currently, Ethernet over copper is one of the most viable options for connecting businesses on a fast, reliable network.

To take advantage of EoC for your business network, simply request a free quote here:

Business Ethernet & More

Your Source For Comcast

2012-01-05T06:15:00.000-05:00

Comcast owns one of the most advanced and largest fiber networks in the world.

Comcast provides true redundancy by completely bypassing the public Internet through their private fiber network.

Comcast is now offering a full PRI for as low as $299 a month. Note: every PRI product that is added to a fiber product, receives a $100 discount.

To take advanatge of any of the services offered by Comcast simply request a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, T1 Lines, Fiber, & More

Achieve Your Network Goals for 2012 with Global Capacity’s Optimization Solutions

2012-01-03T13:08:00.000-05:00

Is your company’s 2012 resolution to save money, increase revenue and create more efficiencies in your network? Then look no further than this post. There are a few companies that are capable of leveraging the right tools and software to help you achieve your network optimization goals. Global Capacity is one of the companies that leverages its vast knowledge and resources to provide companies tangible cost savings solutions that get results.

Through its One Marketplace Access Exchange, in essence an ‘Orbitz’ to quote, order, provision and manage global access network solutions, Global Capacity provides optimization analysis that can save companies a ton of money on access delivery solutions. How? By leveraging its proprietary platform together with its tariff software, LATTIS, and marketplace intelligence, Global Capacity can provide a real cost savings solution that saves money, consolidates network and identifies excess capacity that can be monetized.

Here’s How:
1) By analyzing existing inventory, Global Capacity can identify where you are spending too much on individual circuits. Many companies don’t realize that over the course of time their circuits, though they may not be the most important (i.e. the ones they are provisioning today) are costing them a lot more money to manage than they should. By comparing your costs against marketplace rates typical savings of 5-7% can be achieved, particularly on ‘aged’ circuits.

2) This type of analysis yields a financial optimization solution where recommended consolidation, re-negotiation or circuit re-homing can accomplish even further cost savings results. Many network grooming solutions achieve a 10-15% cost savings for companies – this is attributable directly to your bottom line. AND – it gets better.

3) With a physical re-grooming solution implemented, Global Capacity can help optimize your network spend by consolidating network access solutions which results in identifying excess/unused capacity. This excess capacity can be used to provision new customer circuits at very little incremental cost. The diagram is an example of how you can achieve more efficiencies in your network, identify consolidation points to increase revenue.

This is just a small example but it’s powerful enough to illustrate how Global Capacity can help you achieve your goals this year. So start 2012 right – contact Global Capacity today to achieve the following:

1) Get an accurate inventory of your access network services and costs
2) Identify where cost savings and optimization can be achieved
3) Create excess capacity and then monetize it through effective channels that will increase revenue without increasing your costs

This solution will increase your bottom-line, improve margin and EBITDA. Contact pr@imillerpr.com for more information or visit www.globalcapacity.com today.

Telarus - Your Choice for ACC Business

2012-01-02T06:43:00.000-05:00

ACC Business is one of Telarus' first vendors. For the past six years, Telarus has earned ACC Business' highest award: The Platinum Cup. Telarus has a unique contract with ACC Business, enabling you to get the best rates on everything ACC Business offers .... wherever they offer it.

Until recently, ACC Business' rock bottom pricing has only been available in AT&T regions, but now thanks to a new promo, non AT&T regions can now enjoy the same benefit.

ACC Business offers the following services ....

Data T1, Integrated (SIP Handoff), Point to Point, Frac/Full OC3/12/48, Integrated (PRI Handoff), MPLS, Ethernet over Copper, Integrated (Analog Handoff), Ethernet WAN, Metro Fiber Ethernet, Local Voice, VPLS, Gigabit Ethernet, Dedicated LD (In/Out), Data DS3

For more information on any of the services offered by ACC Business, and to request a free quote, simply go to ....

Free ACC Business Quote

What is the difference between Hosted PBX, Managed PBX and Virtual PBX?

2011-12-29T06:32:00.003-05:00

This is a short and sweet answer to the question. Feel free to expound as a comment if you'd like.

Hosted PBX: You hire a service and don't have to worry about a thing other than paying.

Managed PBX: You have the actual equipment at your location but someone else mantains it for you.

Virtual PBX: Similar to hosted but you don't need any hardware. The service is managed through a web interface.

If you're looking for any of the above 3 services for your business .... you can get free assistance here -

Business VoIP Solution

What Is Unified Communications?

2011-12-26T06:24:00.002-05:00

Wikipedia gives good definition .....

"Unified communications (UC) is the integration of real-time communication services such as instant messaging (chat), presence information, telephony (including IP telephony), video conferencing, data sharing (including web connected electronic whiteboards aka IWB's or Interactive White Boards), call control and speech recognition with non-real-time communication services such as unified messaging (integrated voicemail, e-mail, SMS and fax). UC is not a single product, but a set of products that provides a consistent unified user interface and user experience across multiple devices and media types".

UC goes beyond integrating real-time communications with non-real-time communications to integrating business processes and applications, such as databases.

For example, customer data or the kind of things the likes of SAP offers - or it should - such that businesses gets a fundamental benefit from all aspects of communications being "joined up". It's about being able to communicate with pertinent information at your fingertips, when and where you need it.

Unified Communications is a set of infrastructure and application technology components that work in a connected eco-system - to enable people to give and receive messages and information in a manner of their choosing .... on a platform of their choosing.

It's people centric! All we're doing is helping people have conversations and exchange information in different ways.

John Powell Joins Global Capacity

2011-12-22T08:57:00.000-05:00

Growing out their team, Global Capacity has added another star player in the telecom business to their distinguished team. John Powell, an accomplished, versatile executive with over 25 years of experience in sales, business development, marketing, financial and general management has been hired to take on the role as Executive Vice President of Sales.

Why John? Well, Ronald Brouwers, Founder at Yugen Jikko Pte. Ltd. and Regional Vice President - Asia Pacific at Interoute, says, “John is about integrity, value creation for clients and his team. His global travels, meeting with clients, colleagues, friends, and prospects, have made him into someone who sees the world through a different (broader) prism than most people. He was born a solution seller, he does not think in terms of problems, he evaluates, and provides advice. When tension are high, John remains calm, but never loses sight of the objectives. When his team runs into a challenge, he is there to listen, and give advice, close to 24x7.”

His proven track record for the past eleven years in both direct and indirect (channel) sales vice president roles has mostly involved selling and marketing complex IT solutions, including cloud-based services, to enterprises, system integrators, carriers, VARs, and sales agents. John is a results oriented leader and motivator that has turned around sales organizations at number of companies including TATA Communications, Virtela Technology Services, Inc, and Equant. John is an adept strategist that has been able to succeed in tough times by successfully identifying and evaluating new market opportunities, just what Global Capacity’s sales team needs.

Powell gets business, with an entrepreneurial spirit he co-founded two companies. Ready to market Global Capacity’s capabilities, his innovative ideas will help develop marketing ideas for new products such as One Marketplace Access Exchange.

“John is a mentor/coach who inspires excellence in those of us he works with,” says Brian Cutchen, Consulting Sales Director at Oracle, “He is the consummate professional marrying business acumen and selling to understand and to speak directly to the business requirements of his clients. John's ability to map the professional and personal politics within large and small organizations alike make him invaluable in closing opportunities and advancing the sales process to the next level where demand creation replaces of fulfillment.”

This results-oriented manager that has established disciplined sales management review systems will implement new solution marketing ideas and executive focused selling methodologies.

Visit www.globalcapacity.com for more or email marketing@globalcapacity.com to contact John directly.

Advice For Managing Remote And Offsite Employees

2011-12-22T06:18:00.002-05:00

For remote workers (control, communications, reporting), you would probably need ....

1. Data connectivity for applications:

- Go for remote login for your corporate network and applications

- Make some relevent part of your application web enabled

- Get them GPRS/DCMA1X/3G wireless data plan

2. Voice Connectivity:

- CUG for corporate mobile connections

- In corporate voice plan and pbx, look for features like remote extensions, mobile extensions and find/follow me

- VoIP support is helpful

3. UC features like unified directory, messenger, net meeting will be helful

4. Applications:

- Subscribe/ put remote users on applications like Webex or gotomeetings.com for conducting meetings; otherwise make use of tele audioconferencing/video conferencing

- Give them balckberry/nokia/samsung smartphones with constant email connectivity

- choose clients apps. which can sync. with central apps/database at the end of the day incase remote employee do not have regular internet connectivity

5. Banking:

- choose bank with max. no. of ATM

- Get them to subscribe to mobile banking and ticketing

You'll find options for some of the technology based solutions here ...

Technology For Offsite Employees

Telecom Provider News For December

2011-12-19T05:58:00.005-05:00

Here's the news for December from the Telecommunications industry. Get the latest from vendors such as AboveNet, Comcast, Level 3, Telx, Time Warner Cable, and Windstream.

AboveNet - announced that its Core Wave services are now available to enterprise customers in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley.

Comcast - is on the verge of selling wireless phone service thanks to a partnership with the nation's largest mobile operator (Verizon).

Level 3 - announced it has expanded its network capacity and suite of services in Mexico.

Telx ....

* Telx announced a major expansion in Silicon Valley, where the company has leased 32,000 square feet of in a new data center being built by Vantage Data Centers in Santa Clara, Calif.

* Telx announced plans for its first "greenfield" data center project, a 215,000 square foot facility it is building in Clifton, New Jersey adjacent to its existing site at the Mountain Technology Center at 100 Delawanna Avenue.

Time Warner Cable Business Class - has been awarded a multi-year services contract from the State of Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR), for providing advanced network and internet services to all state agencies.

Windstream - The Federal Communications Commission has approved Windstream Corp.'s acquisition of PAETEC.

To learn more and take advantage of any of the services mentioned above, simply request a free quote here ....

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, Cloud Computing, and More

Cloud Solution Providers Matrix

2011-12-15T06:16:00.003-05:00

With more than 35 carriers in our stable, it's hard to keep track of who does what, which is why we have created a cloud product matrix below. Expect to see this grow as more and more carriers build/purchase new cloud solutions.

* AireSpring ....

SasS - Hosted PBX

* Broadview Networks ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Security, Antivirus, Firewall, Hosted Exchange, MS Office, SharePoint

IaaS - Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

* Century Link ....

SasS - Security, Antivirus, CRM, e-Learning, Healthcare, Firewall, Antivirus, HR, Web Conferencing

IaaS - Storage, Virtual Private Data Center, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Symphony Database (Oracle or MS SQL), Private/Public Cloud, Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

* Comcast Business Class ....

SasS - Hosted Exchange, SharePoint

* Earthlink Business ....

IasS - Security, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Private/Public Cloud (Windows and Linux OS), Backup & Recovery

* Integra Telecom ....

SasS - Firewall, Hosted PBX, Managed PBX

* Megapath ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Security, Antivirus, Firewall

* Paetec ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Hosted Exchange

IaaS - Storage, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Disaster Recovery (SAN), Enterprise Cloud Security

* Smoothsone IP Communications ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Unified Communications (Cloud)

* TelePacific Communications ....

SasS - Security, Firewall

IaaS - Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Backup & Recovery

* Telx ....

IasS - Cloud Connection Centers

* Time Warner Cable Business Class ....

Note: TWCBC Cloud solutions will be available soon via their latest acquisition of Navisite

SasS - Oracle E-Business, PeopleSoft, Siebel, Hyperion, Microsoft Dynamics, Hosted Exchange, SharePoint, IBM Lotus Notes

IaaS - Storage, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Private/Public Cloud, Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

* Vocal IP Networx ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Hosted Exchange, SharePoint, Spam Filtering, Content Filtering, Network Monitoring & Management

IaaS - Storage, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Private/Public Cloud, Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

* Windstream ....

SasS - Hosted PBX, Firewall

IaaS - Storage, Virtual & Dedicated Servers, Private/Public Cloud, Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

* XO ....

SasS - Security, Hosted PBX, Spam Filtering, Unified Communications (Cloud)

IaaS - Backup & Recovery, Enterprise Cloud Security

If you'd like to take advantage of any of the services from the providers above ... simply ask for a free quote here:

Cloud Services Quotes

Guten Tag Colt.... hello new Opportunities for Global Capacity’s One Marketplace Access Exchange

2011-12-13T08:30:00.000-05:00

Since the announcement of the enhanced Ethernet capabilities of Global Capacity’s One Marketplace Access Exchange, the company has been adding providers ensuring superior connectivity. Today the company announced it is now working with Colt. Its 21-country, 35,000km network includes metropolitan area networks in 39 major European cities with direct fibre connections into 18,000 buildings and 19 Colt data centres, which means that …. Europe is covered.

Global Capacity’s clients can count on a superior access network solutions with the forging of this new partnership. In the press release that went out earlier today, Jack Lodge, Chief Operating Officer of Global Capacity stated “By integrating Colt as a strategic partner in Europe, Global Capacity continues to expand the marketplace of alternatives available to deliver automated access solutions to our customers,” in other words, Global Capacity has got your business covered across the European territory.

He then adds, “Currently we process more than 150,000 quotes a month via the One Marketplace Access Exchange platform. We expect this number to continue to grow as more customers leverage One Marketplace to source their access requirements, and adding partners like Colt increases the depth and reach of the One Marketplace platform.”

Global Capacity placed its first order for Germany, with additional services expected to be implemented across their European network throughout 2012 and beyond.

It is no surprise that One Marketplace is gaining momentum in Europe since the company’s participation at the Capacity Europe event in November 2011. More business partnerships are coming together. Network operators, integrators and carriers can leverage Global Capacity’s One Marketplace Access Exchange to buy and sell global access network solutions more easily. You can meet the Global Capacity team next month at PTC to ensure you stay ahead of the curve and can deliver network solutions for your global customers more efficiently. For more information visit www.globalcapacity.com or email pr@imillerpr.com to schedule a meeting .

More On Cloud Computing ... Cloud Service Advantages

2011-12-12T06:59:00.003-05:00

Cloud computing describes a new supplement, consumption, and delivery model for IT services based on Internet protocols, and it typically involves provisioning of dynamically scalable and often virtualised resources. It is a byproduct and consequence of the ease-of-access to remote computing sites provided by the Internet. This may take the form of web-based tools or applications that users can access and use through a web browser as if the programs were installed locally on their own computers.

Cloud computing providers deliver applications via the internet, which are accessed from web browsers and desktop and mobile apps, while the business software and data are stored on servers at a remote location. In some cases, legacy applications (line of business applications that until now have been prevalent in thin client Windows computing) are delivered via a screen-sharing technology, while the computing resources are consolidated at a remote data center location; in other cases, entire business applications have been coded using web-based technologies such as AJAX.

The advantages of Cloud Service include .....

* Reduced Cost: Cloud technology is paid incrementally, saving organizations money.
Increased Storage: Organizations can store more data than on private computer systems.

* Highly Automated: No longer do IT personnel need to worry about keeping software up to date.

* Flexibility: Cloud computing offers much more flexibility than past computing methods.

* More Mobility: Employees can access information wherever they are, rather than having to remain at their desks.

* Allows IT to Shift Focus: Organizations no longer have to worry about constant server updates and other computing issues; they are free to concentrate on innovation.

For more on the advantages of cloud computing, including Pros and Cons, read this article from the Cloud Computing Journal ....

The Advantages Of Using Cloud Computing

EoC..... big news in the industry, and Global Capacity is leading the charge overseas!

2011-12-09T16:15:00.001-05:00

Buh bye copper, your days are numbered. The trend forward is all about the Ethernet WAN connectivity. What is the difference? You can link multiple locations of your business and have a dedicated high speed connection to the Internet. Ethernet over Copper (EoC) is ideal for businesses using a private cloud network, which includes companies with international locations. With much higher bandwidth requirements and much lower prices, EoC is a far more efficient way to transmit higher bandwidth than with its predecessor standard copper wiring. Global Capacity has EoC and much more available through its One Marketplace Access Exchange. EoC is just one of the solutions that the company will be discussing while attending PTC 2012 next month.

One Marketplace Access Exchange provides ubiquitous access to pricing and supply through an automated web-based platform. By providing an automated, transparent platform, Global Capacity’s One Marketplace Access Exchange provides customers accurate and competitive market pricing with the ability to order and provision access networks in the bandwidth intervals required. Suppliers receive access to qualified customer opportunities to deliver competitive “on-net” solutions. One Marketplace Access Exchange connects customers to multiple vendors through a single interconnection, providing universal access to solutions and providers, regardless of geography.

Asia-Pacific’s rapidly growing information technology space is sure to be intrigued by the One Marketplace Access Exchange and its bevvy of access solutions. Global Capacity will attending PTC 2012, Asia-Pacific’s premier telecommunications event on January 15-18th, 2012. To meet the team, email pr@imillerpr.com.

DataCenter Demand in New Jersey is Growing

2011-12-09T15:50:00.001-05:00

According to the panelists at the Greater New York Data Center Summit held on November 29th in NYC, northern New Jersey and suburban industrial spaces are expected to see new development in the next 5-10 years as the need for data centers continues to grow. There is a blatant demand for secure, customized data center facilities to meet the needs of information technology businesses The telecom industry is expanding beyond traditional borders.

“We need space!”

This message was very clear throughout the event. Needs for reliable and secure data storage continue to climb for businesses of all sizes, and New Jersey is a place business can flourish. Furthermore, flexible, expandable space were hot topics indeed.

It is the state of NJ that is setting the trend for national data center development. As inventory of space remains an issue throughout the US, there is an estimated 800,000 square feet of industrial space in the state of New Jersey, with more than 16 different data center providers.

But there are solutions.

FiberMedia provides superior cloud networking solutions for your growing business with 5 data centers throughout NY/NJ Tri-state area. Furthermore, FiberMedia is a key player helping to bolster New Jersey’s emerging economic rise in this technology space. While many companies are just discovering the opportunities here, FiberMedia is firmly rooted as a provider of choice offering enterprise class resources on-demand.

To learn more about FiberMedia’s New Jersey data centers you can checkout their Jersey City (http://www.fibermedia.net/locations/jersey-city-nj/) facility or visit their marquee site in Secaucus, NJ (http://www.fibermedia.net/locations/secaucus-nj/)

Who Is Broadview Networks?

2011-12-08T06:06:00.000-05:00

Broadview Networks provides advanced communications services and support for businesses of all sizes in the northeast, New England and mid-Atlantic regions.

What You Should Know About Broadview Networks

Broadview Networks is a network-based electronically integrated communications provider (e-ICP) serving small and medium-sized businesses in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States. The Company offers integrated communications solutions, including local, long-distance and international voice services; data services that encompass VPN and MPLS enabled offerings; hosted and premises-based VOIP systems; traditional telephone systems; and high-speed Internet services using DSL, T1 and T3 technologies.

Broadview Networks is a total solutions provider serving over 70,000 businesses customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast United States. Broadview makes it easy for organizations to implement technologies that solve their infrastructure, security, and productivity challenges. Broadview customers benefit from award-winning customer service including a web-based account management tool and a primary point-of-contact for real-time, personal customer care.

For Broadview Networks the biggest advantage of its Metaswitch platform is more efficient use of the T1 bandwidth that is a mainstay of small business services. It allows Broadview to sell voice over IP without requiring major changes in customer behavior while improving the customer experience.

Broadview Networks Business Products:

* Business DSL
* Data T1
* Bonded T1
* Ethernet over Copper
* Integrated (SIP Handoff)
* Integrated (PRI Handoff)
* Integrated (Analog Handoff)
* Hosted PBX (SMB)
* IP-PBX Equipment (SMB)
* Local Voice
* Dedicated LD (In/Out)
* SIP (Local/LD Trunks)
* SIP (LD Buckets)
* Point to Point
* MPLS
* Colocation
* Managed Firewall
* POTS
* Metro Fiber Ethernet
* Gigabit Ethernet

For more information on any of the above services from Broadview Networks simply request a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, And Much More

Who Is Windstream Communications?

2011-12-05T05:41:00.000-05:00

Windstream Communications, formerly known as NuVox, delivers customized managed communications services, information technology, data, security, and voice solutions designed specifically for business customers. NuVox serves approximately 90,000 customers in the Southeast and Midwest, and provides select services throughout the United States. NuVox delivers services via its industry-leading MPLS-based wide area private IP network.

What You Should Know About Windstream Communications

Windstream Communications, formerly known as NuVox, headquartered in Greenville, SC, delivers voice, data, business apps, and IT security designed specifically for business customers in the Southeast and Midwest. Today, NuVox is one of the largest Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) in the United States.

Windstream Products:

* Business DSL
* Data T1
* Bonded T1
* Frac/Full DS3
* Frac/Full OC3/12/48
* Ethernet over Copper
* Ethernet over DS1/DS3
* Metro Fiber Ethernet
* Integrated (SIP Handoff)
* Integrated (PRI Handoff)
* Integrated (Analog Handoff)
* POTS Lines
* Local Voice
* MPLS
* Ethernet WAN
* Google Apps for Business
* Colocation

If you are interested in any of the services from Windstream listed above, simply request a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwdith, Business Ethernet, And Much More

Cloud Computing Overview

2011-12-01T06:25:00.004-05:00

Cloud computing enables you to access remote files and applications over the Internet.

Cloud services are divided into two main categories:

* Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

* Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

Cloud services are different from traditional hosting in three ways:

* It is sold incrementally on-demand, typically by the minute, hour, or CPU cycles

* It is elastic -- a user can have as much or as little of a service as they want at any given time

* The service is fully managed by the provider (the consumer needs nothing but a personal computer and Internet access)

Cloud solutions can be private or public. Public clouds share a single resource (such as a server) among multiple users where a private cloud is used by a single user.

SaaS provides the capability for the for the consumer to access applications running on a cloud infrastructure. Applications can be accessed through a thin client interface such as a web browser, hand set, etc.

IaaS is the "computing" of "cloud computing" and the engine behind Saas. IaaS gives customers access to computer processing, storage, networks, and other computing resources that are hosted by the IaaS service provider.

For more information watch this video "What Is Cloud Computing" ....

A PR Client's Bill of Rights

2011-11-30T13:13:00.001-05:00

With the launch of my new firm, iMiller Public Relations (iMPR) it hasinspired me to consider the importance of a client ‘Bill of Rights’ is whenworking with a PR firm. Though these arespecific to iMPR, I encourage all companies seeking outsourced PR support toconsider these guidelines in their selection:

1. Experience

Clients should select a firm that exemplifiesthe type of experience that they require from a partner. Experience isn’t just in a manner of resultsdelivered by a firm, but the team assigned to the account. The most important person on your accountwill be the Account Director. Thisperson drives the strategy and vision and should be the most experienced atwhat they do. They should not only haveexperience in Public Relations, but in the industry whose expertise you seek tobe advised about. This experience shouldthen trickle down to the team that will support you. At iMPR we have teams of experts. Silos of specialists focused solely onknowing and understanding specific aspects of the business. From Social Media to Event Management andbeyond; let your agencies know what you need and have them build a team that isexperienced in the specifics to deliver results.

2. Ethics

Ask the hard questions; know how the agencygets things done. Be sure that in all ofyour communications with your agency there is honest and accurate informationconveyed to one another. Make sure youknow the other companies that are represented to ensure that there is no conflictof interest. Your PR firm should alwayswork to strengthen the public’s trust in your company and in the professionitself. Your business’ private andconfidential information should remain protected at all times. Finally, on all matters regarding publicpolicy, you are entitled to f wise counsel and advise, practiced and proven byindustry professionals. The PublicRelations Society of America emphasizes ethics in its code ofconduct. It’s a good practice to knowwhat they are so you get what you deserve.

3. Commitment to Success

It’s true that public relations efforts aredifficult to measure but that doesn’t mean that your partner firm shouldn’t becommitted to your success. There arealways new ways to drive results whether it’s educating the market, eyeballs toa website, visibility at conferences – no matter what your company may or maynot be doing your PR partner should have the tools to activate a program thatwill deliver. PR efforts are not justabout press release distribution, it’s much more.

4. Ability to Renegotiate

Don’t get yourself stuck. When you hire a firm you hire a team that youfeel good about. Should there be changesto the team, the firm, the clients, the direction of the firm your companyshould have a way to renegotiate to ensure that you get the same level ofservice you signed on for.

5. Exit Plan

Even before you enter into an agreementwith a firm, find out how they manage the exit. Ask for references; ask for the process to be documented. What better time to know how to end arelationship than before you begin it?

If you have any questions about PublicRelations Services, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re at 1.866.307.2510 – go ahead and give us a call.

Cloud Computing Is Our Future

2011-11-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

The cloud computing market is expected to generate between $100 billion and $150 billion in annual revenue by 2015. As of today, the global data network switching and routing market is around $40 billion.

A solid majority of technology experts and stakeholders expect that by 2020 most people will access software applications online and share and access information through the use of remote server networks, rather than depending primarily on tools and information housed on their individual, personal computers. They say that cloud computing will become more dominant than the desktop in the next decade. In other words, most users will perform most computing and communicating activities through connections to servers operated by outside firms.

To learn more about the value of Cloud Computing from an IT professional standpoint, read this article from InfoWorld ....

What Cloud Computing Really Means

To learn more about the future of Cloud Computing read this article from Pew research ....

The Future Of Cloud Computing

New Beginnings, New Options

2011-11-26T07:03:00.001-05:00

iMiller Public Relations
(International Marketing & Public Relations)

Around each corner we are presented with unexpected opportunities. As we journey through life, the challenge we all have is to remain present in the moment and not bog ourselves down with past or future predictions that neither live in the here and now. This is extremely important in launching a new entity - how do you take the past, weave it into the present, to forge forward with vision, clarity and a promise in the future? This is the philosophy I embrace as I launch my new firm for International Marketing and Public Relations: iMiller Public Relations or iMPR.

iMPR provides hi-end, strategic direction for telecom and IT companies that seek to understand who they are, what they do and how they do it. It is this philosophy that allows us to create a comprehensive go-to-market plan that tactically delivers the messages of who they are, what they do and how they do it to the market. But it's not just about creating the messages, the look, the feel of a company, it's more than that. It's about finding the right voice, creating the context and the right avenues to deliver the messages. It's about identifying the target market and speaking directly to them from the outside in - and the inside out. This is the iMPR philosophy - from what has worked to what is effective today.

By living, breathing and co-existing with the telecom companies that our clients seek to reach, iMPR understands innately the issues that the industry as a whole faces and can help steer clients to create and deliver solutions to those issues. In the end, it's about creating value, delivering against that value and sticking to your promises.

As I began this blog I presented the theme of unexpected opportunities. On November 2, 2011 when iMPR was created, I first thought of my promise(s). What is it that I, as CEO of iMPR want to deliver to the market? As individuals we are on a journey to deliver solutions and those solutions are packaged in promises to our clients - what is a promise? The declaration that one will or will not do for another. With an open heart and gratitude to my clients, partners, friends, colleagues and prospects - iMPR is giving birth to a new philosophy and that is our promise - and against that - we will deliver.

For more information visit our temporary website: www.imillerpr.com

Who Is USA Digital Communications?

2011-11-24T05:29:00.003-05:00

USA Digital Communications serves the needs of large volume, inbound and outbound telecommunication clients. USAD and its affiliated companies provide competitive global wholesale long distance for both TDM, VoIP, high speed internet, data transport services and enhanced services that help clients remain competitive and grow their businesses.

What You Should Know About USA Digital Communications

USA Digital specializes in low Long Distant rates for clients especially with TDM and VoIP products. USAD offers a TDM product with eight tier one providers and a Voice over IP product that goes over their switch located in Las Vegas. This strategic switch placement allows for companies to enjoy the lowest tax rate possible for telecom. The VoIP product is a month to month term in order to remain flexible to companies who are new to this next generation of technology.

Using network and telecom services from USA Digital Communications lets business customers enjoy all the technological advantages provided by telecom industry leaders and all the benefits of responsive service from a nimble, customer-focused organization. It’s the best of both worlds, and it’s at the lowest monthly cost available. Unlike many VoIP providers, USA Digital does not apply a per session charge.

USA Digital offers 6/6 billing, no surcharge, low cost - 100% termination routing, and ancillary services along with relevant and timely data approach are the hallmarks of the USA Digital business model.

USA Digital Communications' Products:

* Data T1
* Bonded T1
* Frac/Full DS3
* Frac/Full OC3/12/48
* Dedicated LD (In/Out)
* Dedicated Voice
* SIP (Local/LD Trunks)
* Voice over MPLS
* Point to Point
* MPLS
* VPLS
* Colocation

If you are interested in more information on any of the services from USA Digital listed above, simply request a free quote here:

Business VoIP Solution

Who Is Century Link?

2011-11-21T06:20:00.005-05:00

CenturyLink is the third largest telecommunications company in the United States. The company provides broadband, voice and wireless services to businesses across the country. In addition, the company provides data, voice and managed services to business, government and wholesale customers in local, national and select international markets through its high-quality advanced fiber optic network and multiple data centers.

What You Should Know About CenturyLink

CenturyLink has recently acquired Embarq, Savis, and Qwest. Thanks to these recent mergers, CenturyLink is now the third-largest telecommunications company in the United States.

CenturyLink owns and operates more than 173,000 network miles and 17 data centers.

CenturyLink Business Products:

* Data T1
* Bonded T1
* Frac/Full DS3
* Frac/Full OC3/12/48
* Ethernet over Copper
* Ethernet over DS1/DS3
* VPLS
* Metro Fiber Ethernet
* Gigabit Ethernet
* Integrated (SIP Handoff)
* Integrated (PRI Handoff)
* Integrated (Analog Handoff)
* POTS Lines
* Colocation
* Local Voice
* Dedicated LD (In/Out)
* SIP (Local/LD Trunks)
* Point to Point
* MPLS
* Ethernet WAN

If you are interested in learning more about any of the services from Century Link listed above, simply request a free quote here:

DS3 bandwidth, Business Ethernet, And Much More

November Telecom Industry News

2011-11-17T06:14:00.004-05:00

Here's the news for November from the Telecommunications industry. Get the latest from vendors such as AboveNet, EarthLink, Integra Telecom, TelePacific, Telnes, RealLinx, and Windstream.

AboveNet - AboveNet is looking to make acquisitions to grow its business, a reversal from its previous stance to grow organically, Chief Executive William LaPerch said in an interview with Reuters.

EarthLink ....

* EarthLink has signed an agreement to purchase the IT Solution Center and hosted application business from Synergy Global Solutions, a provider of hosted IT products, services and solutions based in Western, NY. This acquisition will provide EarthLink with scalable 24x7x365 IT service support capabilities to allow customers to outsource critical IT services in a cost efficient manner.

* EarthLink, Inc. ELNK +1.66% a leading IP infrastructure and services company, announced plans to expand and enhance its state-of-the-art network infrastructure. Additional network routes and equipment will be added to EarthLink's network to provide incremental growth capacity and scalability, support new nationwide leading edge product offerings, and ensure that EarthLink's strong, diverse network remains a significant differentiator.

Integra Telecom - didn't have to look far to find a new executive chairman. Kevin O�Hara replaces CEO Tom Casey, who has resigned to take the reins at Tronox Inc. - a producer and marketer of titanium dioxide pigment where he was previously the chairman of the board.

TelePacific ....

* TelePacific has recently completed the acquisition of Tel West Network Services Corporation. The Austin, Texas-based company brings more than 3600 business accounts and a fiber optic network linking the top five metropolitan areas in Texas, as well as a portfolio of business communications services, to the growing TelePacific family.

* TelePacific has slashed their Fixed Wireless turn-up times. The standard provisioning interval for Ethernet over Fixed Wireless (EoFW) broadband Internet access has been reduced from 30 days to just 8 days!

Telnes - Telnes Broadband has announced a revolutionary technology, Telnes Intelligent Bandwidth, that is designed to enable Class of Service (COS) for SIP, VoIP, and other cloud based critical applications over the public Internet. This new innovation will enable VoIP, SIP and Cloud providers that require customers to bring their own bandwidth, to finally achieve CoS over a public Internet connection. Telnes Intelligent Bandwidth is a single circuit that allows prioritization of critical traffic over all other traffic at the carrier network level. This allows Telnes customers to dynamically shape their traffic--ensuring performance for mission critical applications.

RealLinx - Managed IP services provider RealLinx has launched VideoLinx, a hosted, multi-party video conferencing service.

Windstream - announced the launch of its second-generation cloud platform. Designed to meet the strong, continually growing demand for cloud computing services, the platform incorporates significant technology enhancements to Windstream Hosted Solutions' existing cloud services offering, including solutions from industry leaders such as VMware, NetApp, EMC and more to provide a comprehensive solution that can serve businesses' production and disaster recovery requirements.

To learn more and take advantage of any of the services mentioned above, simply request a free quote here ....

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, Cloud Computing, and More

ACC Business Opens Up EaMIS Market To All 48 Mainland States

2011-11-14T05:50:00.003-05:00

Effective October 7, 2011 the EaMIS II Promotion being offered by bread-and-butter carrier, ACC Business, is now available for Out-of-Region opportunities. Previously EaMIS I, utilizing a 65% MIS port discount, was allowed for Out-of-Region EaMIS. Now EaMIS II, which provides an 88% MIS Port discount, can be utilized with pricing as low as $221 for Unmanaged Service and $326 for Managed Service.

As an example...10mg Ethernet used to be $1879 with router...NOW ITS $1244!

You can learn more as well as request a free quote here .....

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, And Much More

Texas Opens Government Opportunities to TWCBC

2011-11-10T06:38:00.005-05:00

Texas state agencies, local governments, and other organizations who qualify are now able to utilize Time Warner Cable's Texas DIR contracts for Tex-AN and cable modem services. In most instances, the Texas DIR bypasses the RFP and bidding process thus allowing the state agencies to quickly make decisions (relatively speaking).

Services Available:

* MetroE point-to-point, point-to-multi-point and VPLS/ any-to-any services
* Dedicated Internet Access: 5 Mb to 10 Gb

Services Not Available (yet):

* Voice services (business class phones)
* PRI voice trunks

To take advantage of this opportunity simply request a free quote here:

Dedicated Voice and Data Networks

Telnes Develops New QoS Technology

2011-11-07T05:26:00.004-05:00

Telnes has developed a new technology to enable QoS over public Internet circuits, enabling prioritization of SIP, VoIP, SaaS, Etc. type products to function properly when using a public Internet.

Without using Telnes, mission critical applications can achieve QOS on their local LAN but once it reaches the public Internet, these tags are lost and so is the QoS. By utilizing Telnes' latest technology, QoS tags can follow data packets to their final destination, and ensuring each packet arrives on-time and in the right order.

To learn more about this technology and how it can help you grow your business, please request more information here ...

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, and More

FCC Makes Neutrality Rules Official .... Cue The Lawsuits, Renewed Hysteria

2011-11-03T05:24:00.000-05:00

The push for any meaningful network neutrality consumer protections is essentially dead, with the remaining partisan bickering over killing off already fairly-hollow and loophole-filled FCC rules being little more than twitching and showmanship for constituents. The neutrality rules the FCC has been cooking up have countless, intentional glaring holes including a failure to cover wireless networks, and were effectively crafted with little serious consumer input.

Read more from Karl Bode here ....

FCC Makes Neutrality Rules Official

Sidera Networks - In their Own Voice

2011-11-01T11:47:00.000-05:00

I recently met with Sidera Networks' Maura Mahoney at COMPTEL Plus inOrlando. They had a great presence atthe event with a booth and prime sponsorship of the conference bags (which Ipersonally love!) Here’s a recap of my interviewwith Maura, VP of Business Development and Marketing for Sidera Networks.

Ilissa Miller - Managing Partner for Jaymie Scotto & Associates: (IM) I remember hearing a lot about SideraNetworks last year at Comptel – that was exciting.

Maura Mahoney, Sidera Networks

Maura Mahoney, VP of Business Development and Marketing for Sidera Networks (MM): It was Last year we launched the re-branding ofSidera. Prior to that we were RCN Metro Optical Networks, which was acombination of three companies: ConEd Communications, Neon Communications, andRCN the cable company. Last year ABRYPartners, a private equity firm in Boston, purchased RCN in its entirety,separated the cable side from RCN Metro, and we re-launched as Sidera Networks.

IM: So today, who is Sidera?

MM: Today, Siderahas about 2,800 locations on net and we continue to expand our capabilities. For instance, in December of last year weannounced two acquisitions, CrossConnect Solutions a colocation provider in 401North Broad and Long Island Fiber Exchange - LIFE, a fiber provider on LongIsland. In 2011 we’ve continued to expand our capabilities, including anannouncement with Spread Networks, which allows us to have a long-haul,low-latency network that is attractive for our customers. In addition , we havea relationship with Allied Fiber, which allows us to very cost-effectively andquickly add key data centers to our network. We have a relationship withExponential E that allowed us to expand internationally into London to be ableto deliver traffic that’s originating in the United States on the Exponential Enetwork in London.

IM: What makes Sidera so unique?

MM: Being a productof multiple acquisitions, as well as organic growth certainly makes usunique. Also, what helps is how we integrate those acquisitions by notlosing what they’re good at and special at, and continue to serve theircustomers and enable our customers to be able to benefit from thoseacquisitions and those assets.

IM: Sidera is a great name, but what does itmean?

MM: The nameSidera is Latin for constellation of stars, which we believe represents ourcustomers, our employees, and the markets that we serve. We stay true to who weare as a company and our acquisitions have a similar philosophy of high qualityservice and support, which is a testament of an award that we won today fromAtlantic-ACM. We won three best in class awards for service, for servicerepresentatives, for value, and our billing system.

IM: With 2011 being such an exciting year, what’sthe plan for 2012?

MM: I’m very proud of the team for their hard work.It's just the beginning so we continue to expand our network capabilities, theservices that we offer, the vertical markets that we go after, and also lookfor those creative partnerships that we had success with in 2011, so that 1 + 1is more than 2.

IM: Thank you for your time. I really enjoyed learning more about Sidera.

MM: Thank youvery much. I appreciate it.

For more information about Sidera Networks, visitwww.sidera.net.

Who Is Smoothstone IP Communications?

2011-10-31T06:17:00.003-05:00

Smoothstone IP Communications is a nationwide provider of unified IP communications services to mid-sized enterprises. Smoothstone delivers Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), IP trunking, unified threat management, MPLS networking, contact center solutions, messaging and advanced collaboration tools as a unified suite of managed services and cloud based applications. Smoothstone's scalable, on-demand applications & services can be integratedwith a customer's existing network and telecommunications infrastructure, operational processes and employee activities, enabling a customer to migrate to unified IP communications as their business requirements dictate.

What You Should Know About Smoothstone IP Communications

Smoothstone has built a nationwide private IP network for delivering voice, data, and video, and local dialtone. Smoothstone caters specifically to enterprises that need to extend IP communications to hundreds or thousands of employees, in multiple geographic locations.

Smoothstone was the first to introduce a converged voice and data service over an MPLS network. The Smoothstone platform as a whole has a distributed architecture, with different features being served from various facilities. Their MPLS services combine best-of-breed carrier networks to create a completely private, fast and flexible solution that lets you prioritize voice, video and data applications, while consolidating all traffic onto a single, easy–to–manage network infrastructure.

Smoothstone can integrate their services with an existing network, or help deploy and manage an MPLS network. Customers are spared the cost of purchasing, deploying, and maintaining the applications, and, to some degree, the infrastructure on which it runs. Second, all maintenance, management, and upgrades are handled by Smoothstone.

Smoothstone offers everything from TDM IP Trunking and SIP trunking to fully-hosted PBX and VoIP to the desktop. Their services include domestic and international calling plans with direct inward dialing (DID), unlimited local calling, four–digit on–net calling and E911. Smoothstone calls never touch the Internet—although they do offer their clients Internet access over the same circuit.

Smoothstone IP Communications Videos

To take advantage of what Smoothstone IP Communications offers .... simply request a free quote here:

Business Ethernet and More

Telarus - Data, Voice, Cloud ... Mastered

2011-10-27T06:23:00.009-05:00

Telarus specializes in telecom and managed service sourcing for enterprise sales organizations. Whatever your business needs for data, voice, or cloud managed services you'll find it with Telarus.

Below is a sampling of what they can offer any business ..... free quotes and low price guarantees from the listed providers on the following:

Mobility .....

* Expense Management - Advantix Solutions Group

* 3G Fixed Wireless - Accel Networks, Broad Sky Networks, EarthLink Business, Level 3 (Sprint 3G), MegaPath, XO Communications

* 3G Mobile Wireless - AT&T, EarthLink Business, TelePacific (Verizon)

* 4G WiMax - Accel Networks, Broad Sky Networks

Internet Access .....

* Business DSL - Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, MegaPath, NetWolves, PAETEC, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, Windstream Communications

* Cable Internet - Comcast Business, Time Warner Cable Business Class

* Data T1 - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, Mosaic NetworkX, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Satellite Fixed Wireless - Broad Sky Networks

* High BW Fixed Wireless(Mircowave) - Airband, PAETEC, TelePacific, XO Communications

* Bonded T1 - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Frac/Full DS3 - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, Mosaic NetworkX, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Frac/Full OC3/12/48 - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Ethernet over Copper (2M - 20M over copper) - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC (Cavalier Footprint), CenturyLink, Telnes Broadband, TelePacific, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Ethernet over DS1/DS3 (1.5M - 45M over serial) - AireSpring, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, PAETEC (Cavalier Footprint), PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Metro Fiber Ethernet (100M - 1G over fiber) - AboveNet, AT&T, ACC Business, Broadview Networks, Integra Telecom, Level 3, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, TelePacific, Time Warner Cable Business Class, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Gigabit Ethernet (1G-40G over fiber) - AboveNet, AT&T, ACC Business, Broadview Networks, Level 3, PAETEC (Cavalier Footprint), PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, Time Warner Cable Business Class

* International DIA - AboveNet, Accel Networks, Global Telecom and Technology, Level 3, CenturyLink, tw telecom, XO Communications

Integrated Products ....

* Integrated (SIP Handoff) - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Integrated (PRI Handoff) - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Comcast Business, Level 3, MegaPath, PAETEC, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Integrated (Analog Handoff) - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Comcast Business, Level 3, MegaPath, PAETEC, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

Voice Products .....

* POTS Lines - AT&T, Broadview Networks, Comcast Business*, Ernest, Integra Telecom, PAETEC (Cavalier Footprint), CenturyLink, TelePacific, Time Warner Cable Business Class*, Windstream Communications

* Hosted PBX (SMB) - Airband, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, MegaPath, PAETEC (Cavalier), RealLinx, Vocal IP Networx, Windstream Communications

* IP-PBX Equipment (SMB) - PAETEC (Allworx), Broadview Networks,

* Hosted PBX (Call Center/Enterprise) - Vocal IP Networx, Smoothstone IP Communications

* Local Voice - Airband, AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, TelePacific, tw telecom, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Dedicated LD (In/Out) - ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, NetWolves, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, USA Digital Communications, XO Communications

* Dedicated Voice (Call Center) - AireSpring, NetWolves, PowerNet Global, RealLinx, USA Digital Communications

* SIP (Local/LD Trunks) - Airband, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Level 3, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, USA Digital Communications, XO Communications

* SIP (LD Buckets) - AireSpring, Bandtel, Broadview Networks,

* Voice over MPLS - Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, USA Digital Communications 3 Days
Interactive Voice Response (IVR) XO Communications

* Audio/Web Conferencing - AccuConference, CenturyLink

Networks Carriers ....

* Point to Point USA Domestic (1.5MB - 1GB) - AboveNet, Airband, AT&T, ACC Business, Broad Sky Networks, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, Mosaic NetworkX, NetWolves, Nitel, PAETEC, PowerNet Global, CenturyLink, RealLinx, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, Time Warner Cable Business Class, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, XO Communications

* Point to Point (Microwave) - Airband, Broad Sky Networks

* Point to Point (International) - AboveNet, ACC Business, Level 3, CenturyLink, XO Communications

* MPLS - AT&T, ACC Business, AireSpring, Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, MegaPath, NetWolves, NetWolves, Nitel, PowerNet Global, PAETEC, CenturyLink, RealLinx, Smoothstone IP Communications, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Ethernet WAN - AboveNet, AT&T, ACC Business, EarthLink Business, Integra Telecom, Level 3, PAETEC, CenturyLink, Time Warner Cable Business Class, tw telecom, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* VPLS - AboveNet, AT&T, ACC Business, Level 3, PAETEC, CenturyLink, tw telecom, USA Digital Communications, XO Communications

* International VPLS - AboveNet,

* International WAN - Global Telecom and Technology, XO Communications

Managed Services ....

* Colocation - Broadview Networks, EarthLink Business, Level 3, Mosaic NetworkX, CenturyLink, TelePacific, Telx, USA Digital Communications, Windstream Communications, XO Communications

* Google Apps for Business - Windstream Communications

* Managed Firewall - Airband, Broadview Networks, MegaPath, NetWolves, TelePacific, Telnes Broadband, XO Communications

* Microsoft Exchange - XO Communications

* SSL VPN - MegaPath

Any business wanting more information on any of the services and providers listed above can request a free quote here: Telarus

"Business Class" vs "Residential Class" Internet Connections

2011-10-24T05:55:00.002-05:00

Why in the world would a business choose a T3 over much cheaper alternatives and what is the difference between "Residential" class and "Business" class?

This is a real question asked recently.

Here is how I think of it, when answering the reliability question...

T1 or T3 line is "powered" by the phone company, the phone company is very good about keeping all there equipment powered even when there is a disaster or major power outage because all their equipment is actually run by battery banks. These banks can run the equipment for 8+ hours, and are kept charging when line power is available. Because a T1 or T3 may carry voice traffic, such as 911 calls, up-time is important. Even if there are ground vaults or other devices that require power between the phone company's central office (datacenter) and your office, these are all treated with the same battery banks, and pre-terminated trailer generator connections. Phone tech's will tell you that T1 and other Hi-capacity lines usually get fixed first, POTS (or a single analog line with 1 number) will get fixed last. In many cases (but not all) you can consider a line from the phone company a "home run" to your location - as in, it's dedicated to you (your business) all the way from them (the phone company central office).

The cable company however (like Comcast) requires many, many, more powered amps and splitters along the coax line. Sometimes these are aerial (on the line up near the power pole) and sometimes these are on the ground, either way they require power usually taken from the nearest power pole, and only sometimes do these get a UPS system (usually a cabinet that says Alpha on it, at least in IL) and this UPS is only good for about 6 hours (at least in my area, IL) When a cabinet is run out of battery, that's it, there is no pre-terminated generator connection, nor do they think it important to bring one. On the rare case that they do, I've seen them take your standard construction site little gas generator, chain it to the power pole, and hard-wire it into the Alpha cabinet, leaving the front panel off so the cord will run in. :-/ Obviously if a large area is without power, they can't afford or keep doing this to the hundreds of Alpha cabinets in the area - they just "give up" and wait for power to be restored. Beyond the power issue is the "shared" issue, the coax line is shared by all customers off the local cable plant, when one splitter needs to be replaced, or put in-line, they don't think twice about cutting everyone's service out to do it. Similarly when one amp needs replacing, it cuts off everything else further down the line.

Supposedly, "Business class" cable modem service is supposed to get better throughput than Residential, and in most areas it's true, but you have to remember both are part of the same, single, coax cable run through your community, so one cannot really be considered more reliable, and any SLA is really only intended to make you "feel good" or give you better credits for downtime, there is nothing physically different about the service. The exception is when Comcast can offer you a fiber line, or their equivalent of Metro Ethernet, which is not coming into your building over coax - this is much pricier.

The actual data part, in terms of routing is pretty similar between the two - in both cases the routing and Internet redundancy is done back and the central office, not out at the street level.

Regardless of your connection type, within your company your should have the modem/router/CPE connected to your own, long lasting, UPS.

You need to decide how important your phone/data service is, and have a backup plan (call forwarding) if it goes down.

As an example, when major storms came through this summer, and many were without power for days...

- My customers on cable modem did OK for anywhere from 4 to 7 hours after the loss of power (Alpha boxes were still powering the line, but were then depleted) This is about the same as why traffic lights blink red for awhile after the power outage, but then eventually go dark)

- My customers on T1 or T3 lines never lost service however

...if your not concerned about such extreme cases, maybe paying significantly less for monthly service is acceptable - more often then not that's what small businesses choose.

For assistance with making the right choice on a bandwidth solution for your business .... at no cost to you ... simply request a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwidth

Broadband Fiber vs Coax

2011-10-20T05:37:00.004-05:00

Is "slow" fiber better than "fast" cable?

The cost of 5x5 Mbps fiber Internet is higher because of a few reasons:

[1] it's "dedicated" just for your use (not split off and shared with others nearby)

[2] it's symmetrical (which usually also connotates FULL duplex, instead of half duplex, ie: download and upload can occur simultaneously)

[3] bandwidth is truly UNLIMITED, no hidden caps

[4] includes a Service Level Agreement (SLA) which guarantees uptime/performance/throughput.

Generally speaking, symmetrical type bandwidth is considered "commercial grade" and tends to be used by the SMB/Enterprise market VS. consumer/residential end users. All because of the reasons I listed above, plus it lends itself to work better in a LAN environment- as the circuit is robust, efficient, and quite reliable, etc. You really get what you pay for. Finally, if you have applications that require real time traffic, such as: VoIP, SIP, and video conferencing + Citrix, VPN, heavy file transfer- commercial bandwidth (T1, DS3, Metro Fiber Ethernet) is essential.

Anyone else care to comment on the relative advantages of fiber vs coax?

In other words why would the much higher cost of fiber be worth it?

Weigh in with your thoughts .....

October Telecom Industry News

2011-10-17T06:04:00.005-05:00

Here's the news for October from the Telecommunications industry. Get the latest from vendors such as AboveNet, AT&T, Broadview Networks, Integra Networks, Megapath, XO Communications, PAETEC, Level 3 Telecommunications, Telx, and Time Warner Cable.

AboveNet - may not be offering cloud services in the classic sense, but its new agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to become an AWS Direct Connect Solution Provider illustrates how its fiber network can be an enabler for the cloud services market.

AT&T ....

* AT&T will officially launch its faster LTE wireless service on Sunday in five cities: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

* In a move to salvage its $39 billion acquisition of T-Mobile USA, AT&T has reportedly approached smaller competitors to sell spectrum and subscribers.

* Democratic Rep. John Yarmuth of Kentucky has asked the FCC to hold off on its decision on the proposed AT&T-Mobile merger until the Justice Department's antitrust suit is settled, preferably a negotiated settlement with telecom companies.

Broadview Networks - rolled out key enhancements to its flagship cloud-based OfficeSuite(TM) hosted IP phone service. OfficeSuite(TM) is now even more user friendly, provides more ubiquitous access via mobile and web applications, and includes a new set of options and features that let companies realize faster the benefits of the system while lowering their total cost of ownership.

Integra Telecom - introduced a cloud security services suite of managed, networked-based security products for companies that rely on the Internet for their business and need to protect their network from unauthorized and malicious access and content. The first available product is Cloud Firewall Service, a network-based unified threat prevention service that provides secure inbound and outbound Internet access without the need for on-premise equipment or additional staff.

Level 3 ....

* Level 3 Communications, Inc. announced that it is now offering a new wide area networking (WAN) solution for enterprises. The solution offers a comprehensive approach to enterprise networking needs, including an integrated portfolio of Level 3's advanced services, to better enable enterprises to optimize the performance of critical business applications.

* Level 3 Communications Inc. said Tuesday it completed its acquisition of Global Crossing Ltd. in a stock swap valued at about $2 billion. Both companies operate long-distance telecommunications networks.

MegaPath - is expanding its use of Adtran Ethernet-over-copper gear to create a nationwide Ethernet footprint that will reach 680 Central Offices (COs) by June 2012.

PAETEC - PAETEC announced the nationwide launch of the cloud-based Advanced Application Reporting (AAR) solution as part of its comprehensive portfolio of data and cloud solutions for enterprise businesses, universities, and government institutions. Using the system, IT leaders and administrators can monitor IP-based traffic by application across their entire network to improve performance with near real-time reporting in five-minute intervals. IT management may then use that information to support their end users, troubleshoot network issues, and plan for future growth and new application deployment.

Telx - announced the successful completion of SSAE 16 compliance in 12 data centers.

Time Warner Cable - is pumping $15 million into a new Wi-Fi network in the Los Angeles area that all TWC high-speed data customers will be able to access for free. The New York City-based cable giant also plans to offer a pay-as-you-go, fee-based service to non-customers and visitors to L.A.

XO Communications ....

* XO Communications announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Laura W. Thomas, XO's Chief Financial Officer, to lead the company as interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Ms. Thomas will also retain responsibility for the company's financial leadership as chief financial officer at this time.

* XO Holdings, the telecommunications provider backed by billionaire Carl Icahn, has become a private company.

To learn more and take advantage of any of the services mentioned above simply request a free quote here ....

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, and More

Cable Pulling Ahead of Telcos Globally .... IPTV Doing Well, Cable Broadband and VoIP Doing Better

2011-10-13T06:11:00.003-05:00

TeleGeography directs your attention to their latest report, which notes that while phone companies are doing a good job luring users to new IPTV services, cable operators are doing a better job luring broadband and Internet voice customers. According to the research firm, global IPTV subscribers passed the 50 million mark, while cable operators now stake claim to 100 million broadband subscribers and over 65 million voice subscribers on their networks.

Read more from Karl Bode here ....

Cable Pulling Ahead of Telcos Globally

National Broadband Map Updated ... Still Omits Real-World Speeds, Price

2011-10-10T06:06:00.003-05:00

Back in February the government launched the nation's first ever national broadband map. Unfortunately, the map was met with significant criticism due the fact the data collected from ISPs drastically overstates speeds, doesn't include price, and the map often tells users ISPs serve their area when they don't. While the government insisted the $300 million map would improve given constant updates, the first update to the map since its February launch arrived this week. While the update increases the amount of data collected from 1,650 ISPs to 1,731, the map still appears to have a strong tendency to overstate speeds and hallucinate competitors.

Read more on this observation by Karl Bode here ....

National Broadband Map

Comcast Metro Ethernet - Now Available!

2011-10-06T06:51:00.003-05:00

Comcast is the owner of the country's largest Fiber network and has a large number of lit buildings, including most data centers.

Here are four products available to you (10MB to 10GB):

* Ethernet Dedicated Internet (EDI)

* Ethernet Private Line (EPL)

* Ethernet Virtual Private Line (EVPL)

* Ethernet Data Network / Meshed Network (EDN)

All products are regular, business-grade, symmetric, fiber products built specifically for Enterprise. None of their enterprise traffic touches any piece of their residential network - the two are completely and totally separate. In fact, the Enterprise network is less than 2 years old and has the BEST, NEWEST networking equipment on the market. Their prices are unbelievably inexpensive - in the few quotes we've already run we've seen 1GB pipes go for $5000. Talk about "disruptive"!

To request a fiber quote, simply do so from this website:

Business Ethernet

Comcast can also deliver PRI service over Fiber (customers receive a $100 MRC discount for every PRI over Fiber). Comcast pulls more Fiber than any other carrier in the country, creating new opportunities for your business to save every day.

Hosted PBX - Good Business Choice?

2011-10-03T06:30:00.000-05:00

A hosted PBX solution may not be right for every business application. But if you do your due diligence you may find it's a good business choice for you.

One key is that when you talk about hosted PBX (VoIP) .... it can mean different things to different people.

The intent of hosted PBX / VOIP is to provide the service at a fixed monthly cost rather than taking in the capital cost of a purchased solution. It can also be used to invest in a more feature rich solution than would otherwise be affordable (renting a piece of a very expensive system vs buying a lesser system)

There are two types of hosted providers out there - on premise and off premise. On premise providers bring in the equipment to YOUR site and install it - you just pay for it monthly (think fully managed lease).

Off site providers use private WAN or Internet connections to provide phone services for your organization.

One of the biggest problems you will face with the number of users and simultaneous phone calls will be in the connection between you and the hosted datacenter. With say 200 - 300 phones .... and an average use of 10% for normal businesses .... that's 20-30 phone calls. Depending on the codec in use that's between 900 Kb/s and 2Mb/s. That would only cover 1-2 T1s of usage. Depending on the platform interoffice calls may also be routed via the hosted platform - so that should be a consideration as well. If cost savings is your primary concern - then this could be an issue (depending on the price of bandwidth in your area and whether its on premise or not).

Many organizations can see benefits from hosted including reduced capex, organizational efficiencies, productivity enhancement and much lower maintenance and management costs. However I would caution you to avoid platforms that do not provide QoS throughout the network. There's a big difference between the soho / smb product lines and an enterprise grade service; and QoS over the network (not just the LAN or at the edge) is one of the biggest. Additionally, you should have a consultant perform a LAN assessment to determine the ability of your LAN to handle the VoIP traffic without degradation. It may require upgrades, adding to the expense.

I'll be the first to say that this solution is NOT right for every customer application.

VoIP in all forms is viable depending on the needs of the customer and how it is engineered. There's a difference between enterprise grade and consumer/smb/soho offerings. I suggest you spend some time with a qualified and objective consultant. For a relatively small investment of time they can educate you and help guide you to a decision. For this I suggest you take advantage of the no cost assistance offered through Business VoIP Solution.

Who Is NetWolves?

2011-09-29T06:54:00.003-05:00

NetWolves Corporation is a global telecommunications and Internet managed services providers offering single-source network solutions that provides multi-carrier and multi-vendor implementation to over 1,000 customers worldwide. The Company's principal activity is to design, manage and deliver products and services allowing people and networks to access the Internet and telecommunications networks, efficiently and cost effectively.

What You Should Know About NetWolves

NetWolves is an FCC-licensed and tariffed carrier in all 50 states, offering multiple services on a single invoice. NetWolves has strategic agreements with over 160+ underlying telecommunications providers, including Sprint, Level 3, AGSI, Verizon, Qwest, Covad, Road Runner, Cox, Charter, and Spacenet.

NetWolves provides network security solutions coupled with network management and communication services worldwide. NetWolves operates in three segments: Voice Services, Managed Services Charges, and Equipment and Consulting.

The Voice Services segment provides voice services, including voice over Internet protocol, switched and dedicated inbound/outbound long distance, travel cards, and conference calling data services; and data services comprising IP dedicated and dial-up services, broadband services, frame relay, and private line.

The Managed Services Charges segment provides network and security technology and various recurring managed data services. This segment provides system solutions to organizations needing network security features, such as firewall, virtual private networking, routing, intrusion detection, content filtering, and email.

The Equipment and Consulting segment engages in the design, development, marketing, and support of information delivery hardware products and software, as well as in the provision of consulting services.

To take advantage of what Netwolves has to offer .... simply request more information and a free quote here:

Network Security and Managed Services

Who Is AccuConference?

2011-09-26T06:49:00.000-05:00

AccuConference offers a broad array of tools to meet business needs, from audio conferencing to web and video.

What You Should Know About AccuConference

AccuConference hosts all of their services in house, from sales to technical support, as well as the conferencing products used on a daily basis.

AccuConference has been featured in Forbes Magazine as well as Businessweek and was the 2008 winner of the Telecom Association Member’s Choice for Overall Excellence in Conferencing.

AccuConference product features:

* Multiple Access Codes - Create customized moderator, speaker and participant codes for your conference.

* Multiple Conferences - Setup multiple "rooms" to host different conferences simultaneously and stay organized.

* Call Security/PIN options - Create custom pin codes to increase security and track caller ID's.

* Event Planning - We'll schedule your conference, create custom registration pages, and send email reminders.

* Recording - Digital recording with immediate download, including auto-record options.

* Live call screen - View callers and access moderator controls via the Internet.

* Pre-Conference/ Green Room - Review last-minute details in a private "green room" before starting your conference.

* Lecture Mode - This feature allows you to mute all participants on your call.

* Q & A Controls - Moderate a Question & Answer session when participants "raise their hand."

* Web Conferencing - Share PowerPoint, host a poll and text-chat with participants.

* Blast Dial / Web Out-dial - Invite callers from all over the world to join your call live.

To take advantage of all that AccuConfernce has to offer your business ... simply request more information here:

Audio, Web, and Video Conferencing

The Basics Of How SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) Drives Your VoIP System Design And Function

2011-09-22T06:33:00.000-05:00

Hold on to your seat. Finally....here's an explanation of SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) in laymans terms. It's pretty basic.... but should be just what you need to understand how this VoIP application fits into your VoIP system design plans and function. After all, not everyone in the business world can talk or understand "techie speak".

SIP - Session Initiation Protocol. It is exactly that - the main purpose of SIP is to set up and tear down media (audio/video/etc data) sessions, and also to manage endpoints and other things.

SIP devices communicate (usually) on UDP port 5060. When one device wants to start a call to another, it sends an INVITE message. Included in this is the SDP, session description protocol, which explains exactly what form the data will take (audio/video/etc, what codec, etc). When they agree and are ready to start exchanging media (data), RTP (realtime transport protocol) is used to actually exchange the data. RTP functions on any range of ports, which are assigned to each endpoint. The endpoints negotiate and choose acceptable ports on each side.

Sip also does a few other thing such as REGISTER. Register allows a SIP device with a dynamic IP to recieve calls. A common use is an ATA (vonage type box) - when you plug it in, it registers to its server, and renews the registration every XXX seconds to keep the server up to date (in case its IP changes).

SIP has a handful of other functions. For example NOTIFY can be used to pass assorted data to an endpoint (many IP phones will reboot when you NOTIFY them with the data 'check-sync'). NOTIFY is also used for MWI. There is also SUBSCRIBE, which allows an extension to subscribe to notifications of the status of a voice mail box (for MWI) or an extension/channel (for BLF....(busy lamp field, the thing which makes a guy's button light up when he is on the phone).

There are a handful of other SIP functions, for example REFER (transfer), BYE (hangup), etc.

SIP has three ways of dealing with DTMF signals sent while the call is in progress:

* Inband- Send the tones as audio in the media stream. Only works with G.711 ulaw/alaw codec, other codecs will distort the DTMF.

* RFC2833- Send the tones out of band but still attached to the audio stream via RTP.

* INFO- send the tones as SIP INFO packets along the control channel.

RFC2833 is probably the most common.

There is also a set of extensions called SIMPLE (Sip Instant Messaging, Presence, and Location Extensions). Put simply, this is a way to use SIP for instant messaging type uses.

SIP does not play nice with NAT routers, mostly because of RTP - the SDP includes the source and destination IP addresses where media should be sent to, which are not always correct.

For example - if you have an ATA behind NAT, it will use its own IP (192.168) when creating the SDP. NAT will correctly translate the header, so the packet is addressed from the network's external IP. However the contents of the packet still have a 192.168 IP as the destination, which the server cannot send media to. This commonly results in calls which work except one or both parties cannot hear each other.

There are two ways to solve this - media gateways (sip-aware router that rewrites the SDP) or more commonly, STUN (Sip Traversal Under NAT). STUN is a protocol which allows a SIP device to, with the help of a STUN server, discover its own external IP and what kind of NAT it is behind. It can then write the SDP correctly and negotiate the RTP session so the NAT will not bother it.

SIP shares many response codes with HTTP. IE- 404=extension not found, 401=unauthorized, etc.

Lastly in case you are ever looking at a SIP transcript - SIP performs authentication (where passwords are used) using digests. Thus, a typical authenticated session looks like this:

device tries to connect (INVITE)....

server responds trying....

server responds 401 unauthorized with some auth info....

device responds OK....

device tries to connect (INVITE) this time with hashed auth data....

server responds trying....

server responds ok (and other phone starts to ring)....

Hopefully the above gives you a basic understanding and arms you with enough to be able to ask the right questions....for the right reasons...at the right time.

For free help finding a SIP solution for your business simply request a no cost quote here: Business VoIP Solution

Broadband Nation Message on 4G World Conference

2011-09-21T15:50:00.000-05:00

For a limited time, DIDXchange invites its clients, vendors, industry friends and partners to attend the 3^rd Annual 4G World Conference and Expo, in Chicago, IL, USA from Oct. 24-27, 2011

Save up to $300 on a four-day conference package, but be sure to use PRIORITY CODE: 4GWMS39 to save an additional $100 off EARLY BIRD prices. Complimentary Expo Pass registration is also available.

4G and the mobile Internet are together the fastest growing technology markets in the world. Tens of billions of dollars are now being invested by hundreds of operators around the globe to deliver next generation mobile networks and applications to billions of users. 4G World is the "must attend" 4G event of 2011.

Sign up to participate and get ready to ask questions, see the latest products, meet key people, and participate in important discussions. Hear from industry leaders - Alvarion, Ericsson, Nokia Siemens Networks, Sprint, Alcatel-Lucent, Huawei, Intel, Juniper Networks, Qualcomm, Samsung, Verizon Wireless, KDDI, MetroPCS, TDC and others. View our full speaker line-up here: http://www.4gworld.com/4g-speakers/keynote-speakers/

Registration is available now with up to $300 on a four-day conference package, but be sure to use PRIORITY CODE: 4GWMS39 to save an additional $100 off EARLY BIRDprices.

- - Four-day conference program featuring more than 80 interactive sessions and 200+ speakers.

- - Four collocated summits: NFC Summit, 4G Backhaul Summit, Customer Experience Summit, WCAI Spectrum Summit – click here to learn more about the 4G World program: http://www.4gworld.com/program/4g-world-overview/

- - Real-world implementation strategies from more than 30 operators deploying 4G today, including Sprint, Cellcom, KDDI, MetroPCS, Telstra, Verizon Wireless and VIPnet - click here to view our Operator speakers line-up: http://www.4gworld.com/4g-speakers/operator-speakers/

- - 4G World is sponsored by more than 300 of the world's leading companies, associations, media channels and research firms and 100s of exhibitors such as Alvarion, Ericsson, Nokia Siemens Networks, Samsung, Sprint, Verizon, Acme Packet, Alcatel-Lucent, Ciena, Huawei, Intel, Juniper Networks, DIDXchange, Qualcomm, Airspan, Cavium, Continuous Computing, Exalt, NetLogic Microsystems, NetScout, Sequans Communications, AstraQom, Stoke, Symmetricom, Tekelec and many more!

- The largest global 4G Expo - click here to view 4G World exhibitors: http://www.4gworld.com/exhibitors/

- Best of 4G Awards, presented by Connected Planet- submit today – contest closes Aug. 31! http://www.4gworld.com/press/4g-world-awards/

- 4G World Solutions Theater is where all attendees can access more than 20 of today's leading solution providers every half hour during the expo to learn about the latest 4G and mobile Internet products and services that will drive the new mobile user experience. Click here to view all 4G World special events! http://www.4gworld.com/special-events/

- Internet Cafe and Executive Breakfast hosted by Alvarion and Acme Packet

- 4G Technology Training Programs from Award Solutions and IEEE Communication registration is ready now.

An audio podcast interview is also available now between Suzanne Bowen, VP of AstraQom and Co-founder of DIDX with Andrew Mitchell, 4GWorld content and program director. Stream it or download it to an mp3 player such as tablets, laptops, iPhones, and more. Available also on iTunes.

(Suzanne Bowen is also the guest contributor of this blog post. Many thanks to FreedomFire for making the Broadband Nation blog possible.)

Use PRIORITY CODE: 4GWMS39 when you sign up for 4GWorld to save, a limited time available. Complimentary Expo Pass registration is also available.

Mobility is here! VoIP for a Global, Mobile Workforce

2011-09-20T11:46:00.000-05:00

If you missed the webinar presented by One SourceNetworks and Sonus Networks about VoIP and Mobility, no need to worry, the on-demand replay is nowavailable! As leaders in the advancement of mobility solutions, One Source Networks and Sonus discuss the realities of today’sIP-based solutions and examin the key enablers of the VoIP movement for theenterprise market.

Now you can listen and view the presentations along with an interactive Q&Asession with Gina Nomellini, CMO and Jeff Betteker, COO ofOne Source Networks and MykolaKonrad, Director of Enterprise Product Management for Sonus Networks.

That’s not all, One Source Networks is also staying ahead ofthe game with the recently released White Paper, VoIP for a Global MobileWorkforce and continues to explore this trend. The white paper provides keyinsights into VoIP products and services that are mobilizing today’s worker.

Clickhere to receive the full playback of the webinar and click here to receive acopy of the White Paper download. For more information on One Source Networksvisit, www.onesourcenetworks.com.

September Telecom Provider News

2011-09-19T06:34:00.004-05:00

Here's the Telecom Provider news for September .....

AboveNet - announced it has connected its fiber optic network into the new Latisys Ashburn Colocation Campus in Virginia, Options Data Centres in London, and the first carrier tenant to reside at TELEHOUSE's new, premium data center facility at 85 10th Avenue, in the Chelsea district of Manhattan.

AT&T - The Federal Communications Commission may continue to monitor AT&T even after the carrier's merger with T-Mobile, suggesting an approved purchase could come with certain conditions. The FCC and Justice Department have signaled they will increase regulation in the telecommunications industry if they approve the merger. The announcement may mean the government may force AT&T and Verizon Wireless to keep their prices from rising to help prevent a duopoly, or even make AT&T sell some of its acquired spectrum to Sprint to keep the underdog company competitive.

Comcast Business Class- Comcast has added Michigan to its list of states - including Pennsylvania, California, Colorado, Illinois and Florida -- where the cable ISP is offering services that support the next-generation Internet standard known as IPv6.

Integra Telecom....

* Integra Telecom will leverage Palo Alto Networks' platform to deliver its upcoming Cloud Firewall Service offering, which will include a mix of new security services, including everything from application visibility and control to URL filtering, Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS), anti-virus, anti-spyware and file/data content filtering.

* Integra Telecom may be a fiber-rich service provider, but since it's not economically feasible to deliver fiber-based Ethernet to every building, it's complementing its fiber network with Ethernet over Copper (EoC).

Level 3 Communications....

* Level 3 Communications, Inc. and Global Crossing announced that, at separate special meetings, stockholders of both companies voted to approve Level 3's proposed acquisition of Global Crossing.

PAETEC - announced that it has successfully provisioned high-rate Ethernet services in excess of 200 megabits per second (Mbps) via its advanced Ethernet-over-Copper (EoC) network.

TelePacific....

* 360networks announced it has completed the deployment of capacity for TelePacific Communications into Chico, California. To support TelePacific's specific capacity and interface requirements, 360networks converted its Chico optical regeneration site into a point of presence (POP) site, able to support the needs of other customers as well.

* TelePacific Communications is launching national MPLS and managed services thanks to its acquisition of Telekenex, which is expected to close in the third quarter.

Time Warner Cable - will buy Insight Communications Co. for $3 billion in cash as it bolsters its presence in the Midwest, the company said Monday. The privately held cable operator serves more than 750,000 customers in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. It has about 537,000 high-speed data subscribers, 679,000 video subscribers and 297,000 voice subscribers.

Windstream....

* As Windstream continues its transformation into a broadband and business service provider, it has found another way to give its SMB customers more for their services dollar by upping their respective bandwidth speeds. Under the new speed regime, SMB customers can get their choice of 10 Mbps/2 Mbps, 24 Mbps/2 Mbps, and 24 Mbps/4 Mbps speed tiers.

* Arunas Chesonis, chairman and CEO of Paetec, will exit the company following its planned acquisition by Windstream which, if all goes according to plan, will mean a dramatically expanded service provider led by Jeff Gardner, current Windstream president and CEO.

To request more information on any of the services and providers mentioned above ... simply request a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwidth, Business Ethernet, and more

Telarus Releases Real-Time Ethernet over Fiber Quotes

2011-09-15T06:13:00.004-05:00

SANDY, UT - August 25, 2011 Telarus, Inc., premier telecom master agent and patent holder of real-time carrier quotes, today announced the addition of Ethernet (Fiber) to their real-time carrier pricing research tool: GeoQuote. The technology paves the way for independent agents partnered with Telarus to check for Ethernet broadband availability and budgetary pricing in seconds; a process that currently takes days and weeks.

"We are very enthusiastic about our new-found ability to quote budgetary pricing for 10M to 1GB fiber opportunities in real-time," said Adam Edwards, president of Telarus. "As we continue to partner with agents who focus on larger opportunities, Ethernet is becoming one of our core product sets. Agents are selling it in droves and, more often than not, the carrier with fiber in a customer's building wins the deal. It only made sense to focus our R&D dollars to develop technology that could give agents access to this information in a quick and efficient way. With better access to budgetary pricing and carrier availability, agents feel like they get better service from Telarus and we cut down on the unqualified quote volume for our carrier partners. Everybody wins."

Using "lit building" lists, or addresses of buildings that carriers have a physical fiber presence, in addition to above-ground and subterranean fiber maps, GeoQuote is able to determine the likelihood of a carrier being able to service a customer and at what price range. The carriers who have volunteered their information to be a part of this quoting system include industry leaders such as: AboveNet, AboveNet, AT&T, ACC Business, Broadview Networks, Integra, Level 3, PAETEC, Qwest Business, Time Warner Cable Business Class, and XO. Telarus expects to have more carriers quoting by the end of the year.

"The million dollar question agents ask is 'is it accurate?'" added Andrew Morgan, VP of Web Development for Telarus. "To that we give an enthusiastic 'yes'! GeoQuote knows where all of the lit buildings are, it knows where fiber runs, and it knows the typical (budgetary) pricing carriers offer on 10M, 20M, 50M, 100M, 250M, 500M, and 1G circuits. The only unknown is the build-out fee, but that cuts down on 90% of a carrier's workload while giving agents valuable information in seconds. The ability for agents to get ballpark pricing quickly for their clients is critical to their business."

In addition to budgetary pricing, GeoQuote also delivers a visual representation of the carrier Fiber environment via Google maps. This technology allows for high-level research in the event the customer isn't within the pre-subscribed distance (in feet) from any lit buildings.

"This new software is a real game-changer," added Lance Akins, VP of Sales for Telarus, Inc. "Never before has it been so easy to sell high-end Ethernet broadband pipes than now, through Telarus. Since most of our carriers price the IP portion of the circuit based on simple rate sheets, we decided to speed things up a bit and give our enterprise agents a real leg up."

GeoQuote and its associated technologies are protected by US Patents 7,916,844 and 7,496,184.

For more information about the GeoQuote Ethernet pricing tool, and to take advantage of what this capability can do to find you an etherent over fiber solution, simply request a free quote here:

Business Ethernet

About Telarus

Telarus, Inc. is a leading master agent who works with 30 carrier service providers and 250 independent telecom sales agencies nationwide. Established in 2002, Telarus leverages GeoQuote, a patented real-time quote engine, to provide near instant pricing for transactional services. Large deal support is offered by Telarus' award-winning team of veteran carrier experts that help agents improve their sales of complex solutions. Telarus was named the top master agent by the members of the Telecom Association in 2008, 2009, and 2010.

Learn, Listen and Explore Affordable Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Solutions

2011-09-13T12:03:00.005-05:00

Learn, Listen and Explore Affordable Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Solutions

Agility Recovery, Continuity Centers and FiberMedia are joining forces to bring you a Business Continuity Open House on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 from 2:00pm-6:00pm at FiberMedia’s Chappaqua data center. Learn how the combined strengths of each company guarantees continuity of operations following a disaster of any sort. There will be a presentation theatre, facility tours and a wine and cheese reception. To register for the event please click here.

This is an opportunity for accounting firms, enterprise businesses, municipalities, heath care organizations, hosting providers, IT companies, law firms, service providers, financial institutions and more! Come network and meet with leading companies that can together provide your business a comprehensive disaster recovery and business continuity solution.

Business continuity is more than just data protection. It’s about people, technology and infrastructure. For more information and to register for the event, please visit http://www.rsvpbook.com/event.php?481887 or email jsa_fibermedia@jaymiescotto.com.

We hope to see you on October 12th!

Explanation Of SIP (Session Initiation Protocol)

2011-09-12T06:23:00.002-05:00

SIP... or Session Internet Protocol... isn't necessarily a new communications concept. It has been around awhile although it seems to be garnering a resurgence in Telephony applications today. But... how do you explain what SIP is when asked?

Good luck with this one, trying to explain SIP to technical people is tough enough.

Here's some very simple short statements that may help...

- SIP enables telephony over the internet network

- SIP allows us to packetize and prioritize voice traffic over digital circuits.

- SIP is a way voice is packed into a digital signal that is then enabled for transfer through the internet.

- SIP digs a channel in an IP network so voice/video can flow between two (or more) places. When you finish talking, SIP shuts the channel up.

- It's an internet protocol like HTTP for web browsing, only this one is used to make a phone-like connection between computers, pda, voip-phones or other devices that can talk over the internet.

- SIP is a protocol that allows unlike mediums to communicate. All you really need to know is that SIP is the new PRI and is more cost effective from a trunking perspective.

- SIP has nothing to do with the internet.... regardless of where, when, or how voice traffic is being transmitted. f it's being sent as 0's and 1's... SIP is what differentiates voice from all other data.

- SIP enables you to eliminate the cost of maintaining two networks (POTS + Ethernet) by putting your phone traffic on your Ethernet network.

- SIP is a business-class, integrated voice and data service with connectivity provided to your IP-PBX (a telephone switch that supports voice over IP)

Or... you may explain to a non-technical person by describing the SIP VoIP operation like this:

1. Callers and callees are identified by SIP addresses.

2. When making a SIP call, a caller first locates the appropriate server and then sends a SIP request. (The most common SIP operation is the invitation).

3. SIP or VoIP is a technology that allows you to make calls between devices, be it over the local network or over the Internet (Managed or un-managed). SIP is a standards based technology that behaves very much like your old telephone line but just uses the Internet as its medium.

4. Instead of directly reaching the intended callee, a SIP request may be redirected or may trigger a chain of new SIP requests by proxies.

5. Users can register their location(s) with SIP servers.

6. SIP messages can be transmitted either over TCP or UDP

7. SIP messages are text based and use the ISO 10646 character set in UTF-8 encoding.

8. Lines must be terminated with CRLF.

9. Much of the message syntax and header field are similar to HTTP.

10. Messages can be request messages or response messages.

Now you are armed with some basic background in simple (or as simple as possible) terms.... to explain what SIP is and does. Should you need additional help of a more technical nature in deciding what SIP solution would work best for your given business application.... simply request assistance via Business VoIP Solution.

DS3 Bandwidth Circuits & Business Ethernet …. Your Best Choices For Dedicated Bandwidth

2011-09-08T06:00:00.004-05:00

There are a variety of dedicated bandwidth solutions to choose from in a world inundated with business network systems. In fact, choosing a dedicated bandwidth solution is somewhat similar to a kid’s first visit into a candy store, making a decision could be very complicated. For example, there are bonded T1 lines, DS3 bandwidth circuits, Metro-Ethernet, MPLS, SONET and a host of systems to choose from when it comes to dedicated bandwidth solutions.

There are many reasons why making a decision with dedicated bandwidth solutions can be a bit difficult and confusing for some people.

Foremost, if you truly do not understand the language in which a dedicated bandwidth is written, it could be like searching for a needle in haystack. There are a variety of bandwidth items to select from and the range in prices and performance doesn’t make things any better. You must make a decision on the best system for your particular needs or situation; therefore, it’s important to know what interests you the most (fits your network requirements based on the applications to be employed) as well as what you are willing to pay to satisfy your taste buds.

Making dedicated bandwidth decisions can be narrowed down to answering two very important questions. One – exactly what network obligation does the dedicated bandwidth solution you have selected need to meet. And two – is the cost associated with that particular dedicated bandwidth solution financially pleasing. After all is said and done, you must have a dedicated bandwidth solution that is capable of meeting all your needs.

Here is one thing you should take into consideration when it comes to choosing a dedicated bandwidth solution that meets your specific needs. An overwhelming percentage of today’s rising businesses are narrowing down the items they are interested in to one or two of the things listed in the first paragraph – DS3 bandwidth circuits and Business Ethernet. There may be others that are capable of fitting the bill; but hands down, these are the two best fits for the majority of companies that are looking for a dedicated bandwidth solution to meet the everyday demands of their business.

The fact is that a DS3 line and Business Ethernet circuits compare favorably. Which you choose for your particular application will most often be determined by which service offers the best pricing for your particular business location. How can you find that out?

For assistance finding the right dedicated bandwidth fit for your organization’s needs …. and to save you time, money, and aggravation … I strongly recommend using the free help available to you here:

DS3 Bandwidth And Business Ethernet

Who Is Global Telecom and Technology?

2011-09-05T05:58:00.000-05:00

GTT is a global network integrator providing a broad portfolio of Wide-Area Network (WAN), Dedicated Internet Access and mobility services. GTT combines multiple networks and technologies such as traditional OC-x, MPLS and Ethernet, to deliver cost-effective solutions.

What You Should Know About Global Telecom and Technology

Global Telecom & Technology, Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a global network integrator that provides wide-area network and wireless mobility services.

The company’s target customers include direct enterprise customers (including government agencies) and telecommunications carriers. As of December 31, 2008, its customer base comprised approximately 300 businesses, including global 500 companies, which are in the global banking, manufacturing, communications, and media industries.

GTT provides all varieties of wide area network services you need to build a reliable, resilient, cost-effective network. With access to over 100,000 points of presence (POPs) worldwide, access to products from over 800 suppliers, and the experience of installing network in over 80 countries, GTT can provide wide area network services to enterprises under any circumstance.

The company’s operations consist of three parts: global project management, global Network Operations Center (NOC), and Information and communications technology (ICT). Global project management provides customer service after the sale. A project manager is assigned to each customer order to ensure that the underlying network facilities required for the solution are provisioned, that the customer is provided with status reports on its service, and that any difficulties related to the installation of a customer order are proactively managed.

Global Telecom and Technology Business Products:

* International DIA
* International WAN

To take advantage of what GTT has to offer for network connectivity anywhere in the world ... simple request more information and a free quote here:

Global Network Connectivity

Who Is ReaLLinx?

2011-09-01T06:38:00.004-05:00

ReaLLinx, Inc. offers nationwide Internet, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and managed services, focused on providing affordable, enterprise-grade solutions to the small to medium business segment.

What You Should Know About ReaLLinx

ReaLLinx utilizes a combination of their own facilities and those obtained through wholesale agreements with their vendors. ReaLLinx has negotiated some of the lowest wholesale rates in the industry in order to deliver highest possible value to their customers.

ReaLLinx does exceptionally well with hosted PBX configurations from 2 to 150 seats, and likewise does well with large-scale VoIP LD traffic.

ReaLLinx advantages:

* No usage-based charges on Hosted PBX service
* 100% nationwide T1 coverage
* Flat-rate T1 billing
* $19.99/month per seat with unlimited Local and Long Distance (including PBX equipment).
* Full DS3's starting at $3000.00/month
* Full OC3's starting at $7500.00/month

If you'd like to take advantage of what ReaLLInx has to offer .... simply request more information and a free quote here:

Hosted PBX Service

Who Is Broad Sky Networks?

2011-08-29T06:29:00.004-05:00

Broad Sky Networks was founded by Telecommunication and Technology experts to provide a single source for the delivery of Business Class Broadband Satellite, 3G/4G , WiMAX and Optical Wireless Broadband services. In addition to offering superior wireless services Broad Sky also provides other ancillary services to fulfill service portfolio requirements to allow customers to stay focused on their business.

What You Should Know About Broad Sky Networks

WiMAX

Broad Sky Networks now offers Spectrum WiMAX, a fixed wireless solution in 60+ markets. Their Spectrum WiMAX bypasses the local telco, so installation can happen in days, it is easy to deploy and scale and offers bandwidth from 2Mbs to 1000Mbs for a fraction of the price. Our WiMAX guarantees 100% uptime, managed services as well as Point to Point offerings.

* Major Metropolitan Areas
* Primary or Redundancy
* Provides SLAs
* Large Bandwidth, 2Mb – GigE speeds
* Great for fluctuating bandwidth needs
* Point to Point services

3G/4G

Broad Sky now offers their Spectrum 3G Fixed Wireless service, covering 90% of the United States population. Broad Sky's 4G covers 38 markets coast to coast. Spectrum 3G/4G service is a great alternative to DSL, they use all 3 major carriers, offer innovative equipment bundles and flexible pricing options. Broad Sky also offer a fully managed 3G service perfect for retailers, banking, M2M, etc. with Mobility options as well.

* Primary, Redundancy, Mobile or Temporary
* Average 3G speeds of 1.5K x 384K
* Average 4G speeds of 5M-12M down 2M-5M up
* Flexible Equipment Plans and Service Plans
* Layer 3 or Layer 2 options
* Plans range from 50Mb to 10Gb, pooling plans also available
* Self Installs, ships in days

Satellite

Broad Sky offers a large range of satellite broadband solutions accommodating tele-workers to large private networks. Broad Sky is unique, they offer broadband internet from six different satellite providers all backed by industry leading Service Level Agreements. Broad Sky's satellite supports internet access, IPSec VPN traffic, POS, VoIP and Video applications. They are experts at securely linking locations anywhere in North America, South America, Alaska and the Caribbean.

* Primary or Redundancy
* Speeds from 500K x 128K up to 8M x 2M
* Private Network available for primary or redundancy
* Coverage as long as clear line of site to Southern horizon
* Disaster recovery plans available

Optical Wireless

Broad Sky now offers an Optical Wireless Point to Point or Point to Multi-Point solution, iBeam providing a high bandwidth solution at a fraction of the cost of Fiber or Microwave. This solution installs quickly with no trenching or construction and provides 100M to 1Gb connectivity. This is idea for campus environments, healthcare and municipalities.

* Connectivity from 100M to 1Gb soon to go to 2.5Gb
* 1/10th the cost of Fiber
* Point to Point, Point to Multi-Point and Mesh configurations
* Installs quickly

To take advantage of what Broad Sky Networks has to offer .... simply request more information and a free quote here:

Wireless Services

Statistics and Reasons to Participate in ITEXPO West 2011 in Austin

2011-08-25T14:12:00.000-05:00

You Belong At ITEXPO If You Offer:

Billing/OSS	Prepaid calling
Branch Solutions	Presence-based apps
Cable Telephony	QoS/Network monitoring
Call recording/logging/monitoring	Network security
Cloud Computing	Service creation
CRM	Session border controllers
Data Center Applications/Technology	SIP trunking
Hosted telecom services	SIP solutions
Hosted contact center solutions	SMB solutions
IMS solutions	Smart Technologies
Industrial computing	Switching/Routing Technology
Interconnection facilities	Systems Integration
IP conferencing	SOHO Comms
IP contact center	4G/Wireless
IP fax	Telecom expense management
IP PBX	Test/measurement tools
IP endpoints	Triple play solutions (for carriers)
IPTV solutions (for carriers)	UC applications
M2M	UPS/Power solutions
Media servers	Video conferencing/Telepresence
Mobile Apps Devices	VoIP components (DSPs, SOC, Boards, Etc.)
Network Cloud-Storage	VoIP training
Open source solutions	Wholesale telecom service
PC-to-Phone solutions	WiFi/VoWLAN
VoIP IP Peering	Workforce management

^ A few pictures from the ITEXPO East 2011 above. Contact me Suzanne Bowen on Linkedin or Twitter for business development appointment or just to meet up and talk about what your company and you are doing. I will be in Austin, Texas from Sept. 12-16, 2011. I can talk with you on behalf of DIDX wholesale DID marketplace (USA), AstraQom from Canada (hosted pbx, home phone, co-location, fax to email ...), TelecomYou business/social network site for telecommunications providers, and PinoyKubo (Filipino social network with IP communications mixed in).

ITEXPO West 2011 Exhibitor list: http://www.tmcnet.com/voip/conference/west-11/exhibitors/w11-exhibitor-list.aspx

Floor map: http://www.tmcnet.com/voip/conference/east-11/floormap-west-11.htm

Prospectus: http://images.tmcnet.com/expo/west-11/pdfs/Austin_2011_Pro.pdf

ITEXPO EAST 2011 Total Attendance:

Paid Conference 461

Exhibit Hall VIPs 6,142

Exhibitors 889

Speakers 419

Press 83

Total: 7,994

Demographics:

Service Providers: 23%

Resellers: 30%

Enterprise: 37%

Developer/Manufacturer: 10%

Corporate Management: 45%

Technical Management: 30%

Sales/Marketing Management: 18%

Other Management: 7%

August Telecom Provider News

2011-08-25T06:45:00.003-05:00

Here's the August Telecom provider news for August ....

AboveNet ....

* Provdotnet, LLC. a leading provider of data center solutions, announced that AboveNet has connected to their Prov.net's data centers located in Providence, RI.

* AboveNet shares dipped into the red in mid-day trade (after trading up as much as 4.2 percent earlier) following headlines from Bloomberg which suggest the company suspended its search for a buyer as offers have been coming up short.

* AboveNet will soon connect to the Montgomery Westland Data Center in Alabama known as The Bunker.

AT&T ...

* AT&T says it is on track to receive regulatory approval of its $39 billion acquisition of T-Mobile USA by March 2012. AT&T General Counsel Wayne Watts said that the company has provided a second round of information requested by the Department of Justice and that meetings with the Federal Communications Commission are going as scheduled, the Washington Post reported.

Integra Telecom ....

* Integra Telecom Inc has expanded its network in major metropolitan areas of the western U.S. Integra has extended its fiber network to nearly 300 additional commercial buildings this year-marking a 20 percent increase in on-net buildings since the beginning of the year.

* Integra Telecom Inc. said this week it has installed a point-of-presence (PoP) within the Phoenix NAP data center and network access facility.

Level 3 ....

* Level 3 Communications, Inc. announced the launch of a new ultra-low-latency fiber-optic route to increase trading speeds between London and Frankfurt. The new route will also allow banks, hedge funds, brokers and other financial services institutions to execute trades with lower latency between additional exchanges connected to the Level 3 network including Zurich, Milan, New York and Chicago.

* Level 3 Communications, Inc announced that it is working with Microsoft Corporation to provide SIP (session initiated protocol) Trunking with nomadic E-911 (enhanced 911) designed to integrate with Microsoft Lync.

PAETEC ....

* PAETEC announced it has selected Ditech Networks' PhoneTag platform for voicemail-to-text transcription services. Using Ditech Networks' best-in-class transcription service, PAETEC Visual Messaging customers can read transcribed voicemail messages from their smartphones and mobile tablet devices just as they would with an E-Mail, making communications simpler than ever before.

PowerNet Global ....

* PowerNet Global unveiled a new high-speed Internet service for business customers in greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The wireless broadband service is powered by a high performance redundant network backbone that leverages PMP 320 fixed point-to-multipoint technology from Motorola Solutions, Inc. MSI +1.59%.

Smoothstone ....

* Smoothstone IP Communications announced today that its MaxxConnect IP trunking services are certified to be compatible with IP telephony systems from ShoreTel.

Telx ....

* Telx announced that Level 3 Communications is expanding network services into Telx's 100 Delawanna Ave. data center in Clifton, New Jersey.

Time Warner Cable ....

* Time Warner Cable has launched its DOCSIS 3.0-based Wideband Internet tier in the Midlands area of South Carolina, including Columbia, Blythewood, Batesburg, Sumter and Orangeburg.

Windstream ....

* Windstream has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire PAETEC Holding Corp.

* Windstream Corp. announces the expansion of its next-generation voice and data services into Columbus, Ga., giving local businesses a new choice for advanced communication services.

* Windstream announced it has begun a significant expansion to its Raleigh data center, one which will grow the facility's usable space by almost 50 percent to 32,000 square feet.

* Windstream Corp. this week brought its high-bandwidth Ethernet for businesses into 11 new markets. The service provider sells through channel partners, who now may offer Ethernet of up to 1gbps in Akron, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Indianapolis, Ind.; Wichita, Kan.; Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Okla.; northwestern Arkansas; Augusta, Ga.; Baton Rouge, La.; and Mobile, Ala.

To find out more information and take advantage of any of the offerings described above simply request assistance here:

DS3 Bandwidth & Business Ethernet

wizBANG! Communications Selects VoIP Provider IP5280 for Cloud-based Infrastructure and Service Delivery

2011-08-22T21:40:00.001-05:00

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 09, 2011

wizBANG! Communications, a leading provider of cloud-based phone systems for the family, friends, clubs and the virtual and mobile workforce, announced today that IP5280 Communications will provide the underlying IP network and service infrastructure critical in the delivery of the company’s wizBANG!phone product suite. IP5280 was selected among three other Internet telephony service providers following a series of technical evaluations conducted by wizBANG! which analyzed network infrastructure, high volume concurrent call processing capability and hosted application availability requirements.

“Our engineering team was highly focused on finding a company with the right mix of networking expertise, underlying infrastructure and IP experience to help support our upcoming launch of wizBANG!phone,” said Arnold Gonzalez, co-founder and principal of wizBANG!. “IP5280’s cloud-based technology will be at the core of our service delivery platform, and we’re proud to partner with the IP5280 team.”

wizBANG! offers a suite of cloud-based phone services for the virtual and mobile business world. Standard business-class features including phone number, business voicemail and auto-attendant greeting with wizBANG!’s flexible call-out route control capability, are available at a fraction of the cost of traditional phone systems. The new wizBANG!phone offers smaller organizations and work groups a professional “front door” to their company, and simplifies the interaction with the virtual workforce of today’s modern and mobile business.

“We’re pleased to have been selected by wizBANG! to help support their service delivery platform and technology,” said Jeff Pelletier, CTO of IP5280. “IP5280’s cloud-based network, CLOVER, is uniquely designed to enable wizBANG!’s product offerings and to meet the needs of their customers.”

About wizBANG! Communications....

wizBANG! Communications is a cloud-based IP phone service provider specializing in the service delivery of simple communication solutions for today’s modern family, friends, groups, and the virtual and mobile workforce. wizBANG! offers a complete portfolio of feature capabilities including phone number portability, unlimited local and long distance calling, convenient call control capabilities and online management. See http://www.wizbangcommunications.com.

About IP5280 Communications ....

IP5280 Communications is a cloud-based global IP communication provider specializing in VoIP and converged IP voice, video and data services for business customers. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as a part of the prestigious 2010 Inc500 list as one of the country’s fastest growing companies, winner of the Technology Service of the 2011 CSIA Apex Awards, selected by ColoradoBiz Magazine as the Best Company to Work For in Colorado in 2011, and proudly ranked by the magazine as a part of the elite Colorado TOP250 Private Companies in Colorado, IP5280 provides businesses the most advanced IP solutions to meet a variety of networking and communication needs. See more at http://www.ip5280.com.

Who Is Mosaic NetworX?

2011-08-22T05:46:00.004-05:00

Mosaic NetworX is a carrier-neutral, data services provider specializing in high-availability, low-latency networks. Mosaic NetworX designs and delivers custom network solutions using: metro private line, IP transit, Ethernet, MPLS, dark fiber and more. Mosaic NetworX also provides data center and colocation solutions throughout the United States and globally.

What You Should Know About Mosaic NetworX

Mosaic is a global voice and data service provider. Mosaic executes and deploys their customers critical network needs. Their mission is to be neutral and objective, providing a positive customer experience; resulting in the best solution for you.

Mosaic NetworX Products include:

* Private Line Service
* Metro Service
* Internet Service
* Voice Origination
* Voice Termination
* DID Service
* Colocation
* VLAN Solution

To take advantage of what Mosaic NetworX has to offer .... simply request more information and a free quote here:

Global Voice And Data Service

Who Is Advantix Solutions?

2011-08-18T06:16:00.004-05:00

Advantix Solutions Group is a global leader in Mobility Telecom Optimization and Management Services. Advantix delivers unparalleled solutions that empower customers to take control of their entire mobile telecommunications infrastructure.

Advantix Solutions

Their dedication to offering comprehensive, managed solutions is unique in our industry. As you will discover, they provide solutions, not software; solutions that are designed to eliminate the time you spend on wireless telecommunications management. Experience has shown that success in telecommunications management is determined as much by resources and expertise as tools. If you are evaluating a solution that emphasizes tools over resources, consider Advantix and see what sets them apart.

Advantix Delivers

Advantix offers services to fully manage the entire mobility telecommunications lifecycle. They focus on reducing the time and expenses associated with these programs so you can apply critical resources towards other key business objectives.

By allowing Advantix to manage your telecommunications, you realize lower internal administrative costs, expedited support and trouble ticket resolution, decreased spend, and greater accountability and visibility across your organization.

Advantages of Advantix’ Wireless Optimization and Mobility Management services:

* Projected customer savings 25-35% with a risk-free, no-obligation wireless analysis
* Reinvestment of customer savings into emerging telecom services
* Reduced or eliminated time spent in administration of wireless accounts
* Increase in mobility device counts
* Customized reporting and consulting, configurable to meet your customers’ specific requirements
* Ongoing management to maintain optimal service, support and savings
* Identification and elimination of billing errors and wasteful spending

Advantix Products:

* Wireless Optimization
* Enterprise Mobility Management
* Consolidated Billing
* Customized Reporting
* Help Desk
* RFP Management
* Data Strategy
* Carrier Contract Negotiation
* Assets & Inventory Management

To take advantage of all that Advantix has to offer your mobile telecommunications network ... simply request more information here:

Mobility Telecom Optimization and Management

Who Is Level 3 Communications?

2011-08-15T07:31:00.007-05:00

Level 3 Communications is an international communications company headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado. The company operates one of the world’s largest communications and Internet backbones over an IP-optimized network.

Level 3 operates one of the largest backbone networks of any Internet service provider. Interconnections between major cities are done via 10 Gbit/s Ethernet links. Its network covers the continental US, and most of Western Europe. But is also growing as well in Central and South America plus Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

Level 3's primary focus is network stability and security. Level 3 also provides specialized services for businesses, such as VPN, metro ethernet, voice services, and Video Transport services. Level 3 provides the backhaul video services from stadiums and arenas throughout the US to network head-end service points for NBA, NHL, MLB, and NFL events.

Level 3 currently has connectivity to every long-distance tandem office in the United States, as well as to a large and growing number of end offices. Their customers have the ability to terminate calls anywhere in the world over the Level 3 Network.

The Level 3 network was recently overbuilt with new DWDM, IP and private-line switching layers. Level 3 technology deployments have enabled new, market-leading services like 10 GigE LAN PHY and 40 Gbps Wavelength services.

Level 3 Products include:

* Data T1
* Bonded T1
* Frac/Full DS3
* Frac/Full OC3/12/48
* Ethernet over Copper
* Ethernet over DS1/DS3
* Metro Fiber Ethernet
* Gigabit Ethernet
* Integrated (SIP Handoff)
* Integrated (PRI Handoff)
* Integrated (Analog Handoff)
* Local Voice
* Dedicated LD (In/Out)
* SIP (Local/LD Trunks)
* Voice over MPLS
* Point to Point
* MPLS
* Ethernet WAN
* VPLS
* Colocation
* Wireless Backup (Spring 3G)

To take advantage of all that Level 3 has to offer ... simply request information and a free quote here:

DS3 Bandwidth

Who Is Ernest Communications?

2011-08-11T06:48:00.003-05:00

Ernest Communications, Inc. is the nation's largest telecommunications company dedicated exclusively to serving large multi-location accounts throughout the U.S. As a certified local phone company, Ernest is the only local telephone company that can serve and manage 100% of your multi-location telecommunications needs. Some may come close in coverage but is that the core competency and mission of their company? At Ernest, there is only one market. Nationwide Multi-Location Accounts.

Ernest Communications, Inc. was incorporated in 1997, though its roots in telecom go back to 1984, when Joseph Ernest founded Ernest Telecom, a company devoted to the design and manufacture of printed circuitry for public communications equipment. Paul Masters joined Ernest Telecom in 1992, and over the course of five years held various sales leadership and senior management positions before becoming President in 1996.

Coincidentally, The Telecommunications Act was signed into law in 1996, the first major overhaul to telecommunications law in more than a half century. The groundbreaking legislation was aimed at spurring innovative technology for telecom consumers by allowing all qualified companies access to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).

Recognizing the opportunity to gain access to the country’s nearly 200 million local lines, Mr. Ernest and Mr. Masters co-founded Ernest Communications, Inc. and the Company quickly became one of the nation's largest telecommunications companies dedicated exclusively to serving multi-location businesses throughout the U.S., building its reputation on 100% network coverage, incredibly simple, yet comprehensive billing, and unsurpassed trouble resolution and account management.

Headquartered in Norcross, GA, Ernest delivers approximately 4,000 accurate and timely invoices to its Clients each month, representing nearly 25,000 unique locations, including:

•Food Service
•Petroleum
•Hospitality
•Commercial/ Industrial
•Financial Services
•Communications
•National/Regional Retail Chains
•Entertainment
•Government
•Higher Education
•Healthcare
•Managed Residential

Nationwide Coverage

Ernest is one of an elite few phone companies that provide coverage in all 50 states. More importantly, Ernest is the only phone company that provides service in every territory within every state, including Puerto Rico and Canada! Ernest lives by the motto, “No Line Left Behind”, and expertly handles all your local service needs, regardless of the state, or the market. A sample of Ernest’s Coverage Areas includes:

•AT&T
•Century Tel
•Embarq
•Frontier
•Verizon
•Cincinnati Bell
•Consolidated Communications
•FairPoint
•Qwest
•Windstream

Consolidated Billing

Though Nationwide Coverage is important, what makes Ernest unique is the ability to deliver one single bill for all lines served. Easy to promise, very hard to deliver! However, Ernest Clients testify over and over again that the bill they receive, delivered electronically in a customized format, for each and every line they own, is the #1 reason they continue to trust Ernest as their phone company. Ernest Clients can expect their service to:

•Includes Intralata Toll as part of the local service charge
•Includes all feature charges (Remote Call Forwarding and Voicemail are billed separately)
•Block all Casual and Third Party charges
•Offer a nationwide blended rate for all locations
•Itemized List of charges for other services delivered by Ernest, ie Long Distance, Inside Wiring, xDSL, etc.
•Deliver easy to read, timely invoices in multiple formats, PDF, CSV, XLS or paper
•No hidden fees or charges

To take advantage of all that Ernest Communications has to offer .... simply request more information specific to your business needs here:

Ernest Communications Information

The Benefits of Polycom RealPresence Ready

2011-08-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

Is PBX The Future Of Small Business {SMB} Communication?

2011-08-08T06:27:00.000-05:00

No, but I'm not saying it isn't the future either. It's part of the future, but not by itself.

If you believe the current marketing hype, you will no doubt be convinced that the future is "in the cloud." By this logic one would be led to believe that the PBX will die out in favor of the hosted solution. But, hosted solutions are no more than modern day Centrex equivalents with more functionality. We have seen it come to pass where the telcos ruled with Centrex, then PBX came into the scene and we could break away from the cost and monopoly of the Bell companies. The same goes for mainframe vs PC based computing. Now we're putting the mainframe in the cloud.

Each business is unique. If we treat them all like they are the same then we really aren't doing the best thing for our clients. By shoehorning them into the PBX or a hosted solution without looking at their actual needs we are doing them a disservice. In certain situations, the small business PBX will be the right solution, in other situations, a hosted solution may be a better option. With that, I see the small business PBX as part of the future where the choice depends on what the best fit is for the client.

Small Business PBXs are becoming much more highly advanced and often times can deliver enterprise class functionality on a smaller scale, especially in the more software oriented deployments happening today. Contrary to the marketing hype, the PBX may actually be cheaper than a hosted solution as well so that pricing consideration will also come in to play for the end user.

To see what kind of options may be available to you as a small business I suggest using the search and compare tool available here: Business Communications

Cloud Computing: Hype vs. Reality

2011-08-07T14:58:00.005-05:00

This article, written by Mohit Manchanda, Managing Director of Services for FiberMedia Group was originally published as a 3-part series. The article, in its entirety below, focuses on the challenges faced by small and mid-size enterprises to adapt business applications and processes to utilize the obvious benefits promised by cloud technology and service providers (scalability, availability, low up-front investments, lower costs etc.).

INTRODUCTION

As more and more large enterprises begin to utilize the power of the cloud – computing power as a pay per use utility delivered at a distance with inherent benefits of scalability and resilience – small and mid size enterprises see the need to utilize these services even more. However, lacking the resources to make large investments in developing or migrating applications and business processes that can truly leverage this new technology, they are faced with seemingly insurmountable practical challenges.

The advent of the cloud has been made possible by exponential growth (and lower costs) of high speed communication services. Compute capacity has been following Moore’s law with compute capacity doubling every two years (with an even greater increase in compute capacity per $ due to lowering costs). Storage capacity and costs have been following the same trends as compute capacity. All this has led to large compute utilities becoming a reality just like the 20th century saw the dawn of the electricity utility.

CIOs need to identify managed service providers who are focusing on providing enterprises the ability to run their existing applications on the cloud without having to make changes to the underlying application code.

KEY DRIVERS FOR CLOUD COMPUTING

Computing trends from legacy client server to cloud are easily described using the ice water metaphor – A few years ago we built application to run on discrete pieces of server hardware – typically web/ app/ database. Picture them as discrete ice cubes providing compute capacity. Utilization was in the 5-10% range since each server was sized for peak load.

Then came virtualization – offering better utilization since each virtual node could draw needed capacity from the physical server during peak load. And since every virtual node did not peak at the same time, you could run more applications from the same physical server. Just like crushed ice (denoting the smaller virtual nodes) providing quicker cooling (i.e. better utilization of server capacity).
The cloud, in concept, is like a glass of water where water molecules (compute resources) are available to be drawn through a pipe (bandwidth) over a distance. In addition, the capacity is scalable, with more water available to be drawn from a reservoir.

There are challenges of course. Migrating existing applications and business processes to cloud based infrastructure is the single biggest challenge faced by CIOs. With limited resources, enterprises are not in a position to rewrite their application (like many web 2.0 businesses did having started out creating their business using cloud services). Then is there are issues related to data privacy and security that are especially daunting.

CxOs are realizing that their dependence on IT infrastructure has increased manifold over the last few years with a majority of business processes assuming uninterrupted availability. Corner offices converted to server rooms don’t allow internal IT units to effectively offer uninterrupted services to their customers. Colocating in a secure data center, that was often looked at as an avoidable expense is now an imperative to meet compliance requirements and avoid costly downtime. Server and compute infrastructure needs to be more resilient too. Cloud technology offers resilience, since compute pools are built using redundant discrete physical infrastructure with load balancing – technologies that required large investments and highly skilled (read expensive) manpower to build and manage these environments.

Security is a huge concern, and rightly so. Ice cubes (discrete servers), and even crushed ice (virtual nodes), with their inherent discrete nature, allowed for walls to be built around with data flow and access controlled. Most public clouds do not allow a layered architecture to be built – requiring a rewrite of the application code if data needs to be secured (when does it not?!). Cloud offerings from industry leaders VMware, and emerging providers like Moolex offer layered architecture capabilities. Private managed cloud providers are helping small and mid size enterprises meet their security needs with these technologies.

SUMMARY

The benefits of cloud computing are easy to grasp. While the initial set of services (from Amazon and a host of startups) was targeted for the developer community that took the existing platform and built new applications to take advantage on scalability, low up-front investments and truly variable cost structures. Businesses are demanding cloud services that are geared to run existing business applications as-is and a new breed of managed services providers are gearing up to fill that need.

There are few small and mid size enterprises effectively utilizing cloud technology and services. Private cloud services offer a realistic alternative where these businesses can start deriving the benefits of added resilience and scalability, while minimizing migration efforts. Private cloud solutions built using the products like VMware vCloud , offer seamless migration for the many who have already virtualized their environments. For those who have not, it offers an even more compelling ROI to migrate from physical to private cloud solutions.

CIOs need to decide on the level of outsourcing their organizations are best suited for, providing the best value to the business. Self provisioning and metering allow IT organizations that are comfortable performing managed services internally. As service level expectations from the business grow more demanding, fully managed private cloud solutions offer compelling value with 24x7 operations to augment stretched internal resources.

For more information about FiberMedia and its Managed Data Center-as-a-Service Solutions, visit www.fibermedia.net or email sales@fibermedia.net.

Getting A Blackberry For Your Small Business .... Opposing View

2011-08-04T07:45:00.003-05:00

First Blackberry is not out yet so don't believe all the tech blog hype. It's not as popular in consumer circles as the iPhone and Android phones and tech blogs lump all those together. Don't get me wrong, I love Android, but there are advantages to Blackberry brand: rugged phones, encrypted, compressed data so you use less bandwidth, typically cheaper, usually available as pay-as-you-go plans if you wish, and of course the keyboard is tops (I've used the slider type Android phones, they aren't nearly as good a layout as the Blackberry keyboard).

That said:

1) The ability to sync calendar and contacts depends on your email provider. I'm not familiar with them all, but I do know that GMail does this and works through Blackberries BIS service (free with your Blackberry) that is part of your phone's plan. It's pretty straight forward, any changes made on the phone/web/or stand alone email program that syncs contacts and calendars will show up on the other devices.

2) Your standalone email program has nothing to do with a smartphone. Both the phone and the stand alone program talk to the mail server at the same time. Again, your email provider and settings will determine if it's instantaneous or not (GMail setup with IMAP does this well).

3) Battery life stinks on most smartphones, but I've heard the current Blackberry Bold is decent. Personally anytime I'm in the car I have it plugged into a charger and use a Bluetooth headset to use the phone safely.

4) Admittedly the web browser in a Blackberry is not the best, but it does work. Android phones can utilize HTML 5 features and so they render the pages better, but the little browsing I do on my Blackberry is acceptable.

5) If you do decide to go with another brand, I'd personally choose Android over iPhone, but I'm a techie and a heavy Google user so that makes sense. The HTC Thunderbird on Verizon is good and the Sprint EVO is good. I'm not sure of the others models and carriers.

Couple of other things, you can use the Blackberry Desktop Manager to do syncing between Outlook and the Blackberry. It's free. The downfall is it has to be running to work.

Also YouTube videos play fine in the Blackberry Browser. There is even an app to play them as well. YouTube streams the video realtime. Also if you get a Blackberry with WiFi, that increases the speed to acceptable levels.

For help finding the right smart phone for you .... check this out:

Smart Phones

Getting A Blackberry For Your Small Business

2011-08-01T07:40:00.003-05:00

Just from a market perspective, I would look at phones other than the Blackberry. Apple and Android phones are on the way up, especially Android. Blackberry seems to be on its way out. Just look at the recent Gartner study to see what's what.

Gartner
On an android it's easy to:

1. Find one with a hardware keyboard if you don't like touchscreen (EVO Shift for instance)

2. Sync e-mails, calendar and contacts either to a Google mail account, corporate e-mail server, or whatever. There's an app for whatever you want here if the feature isn't included on the phone. This WILL require lots of data though, so consider an unlimited data plan.

3. Google mail accounts will work with most any e-mail client. The e-mail address isn't tied to the phone in any way. If you want a personalized domain you can do that with Google mail as well.

4. Battery life is all over the board. Older models are worse than new ones. Smaller phones are better than larger ones. Read some reviews once you decide on a Telecom vendor and form factor. Most all phones will give you at least 6-8 hours of heavy usage though. If you plug in to your car charger then you're golden.

5. YouTube and web browsing work great on Androids. They even play Flash well... which Apple does not. I hear that Blackberry does Flash, but don't have personal experience using it on them.

6. Consider an Android. They come in lots of configurations and price points, have all the features you need, are easy to use and Android is a platform with a future, unlike Blackberry WebOS.

I need to clarify Google e-mail not being tied to the phone. A Google e-mail account is required to use all the features on Android phones. You don't need to actually use that account for e-mail though. Also, if you lose your phone or switch to another one or whatever you do not lose your Google e-mail account the way you would if you were using a Blackberry e-mail account and then drop the Blackberry service. You can access it though any number of other ways, not just through the phone.

VOIP PROVIDER IP5280 VOTED BEST COMPANY TO WORK FOR IN COLORADO

2011-07-29T11:54:00.002-05:00

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., July 29, 2011 – IP5280 Communications, one of the country’s leading providers of hosted-VoIP and cloud-based communication services, was announced today as the Best Company to Work for in Colorado. For the sixth year, ColoradoBiz magazine joined with the Colorado State Council of the Society of Human Resource Management and Jobing.com to produce a list of the best companies to work for in the state.

“We’re extremely proud to be included on this prestigious list for the fourth year and to be among so many great Colorado companies,” said John Scarborough, co-founder and managing partner of IP5280. “Our employees are our most valuable asset. We know that happy and healthy employees translate into happy customers.”

To participate in the program, Modern Think, a workplace-excellence consulting firm, surveyed all employees regarding a variety of human resource concerns, including company leadership, management, benefits and strategy, and IP5280 ranked the number 1 in the small company category of 25 to 99 employees.

“We have some of the brightest minds working every day with the most advanced cloud-based technology in the industry. Is it any wonder that this is a fun place to work?” said Jeffrey Pearl, co-founder and managing partner of IP5280. “Our aggressive business VoIP rollout strategy has successfully transitioned thousands of Denver business users to our more affordable and feature-rich Internet phone service in only five years. We attribute this success to our exceptional team.”

For details, visit the SHRM Colorado State Council website at www.coshrm.org.

About IP5280 Communications  IP5280 Communications is a cloud-based global IP communication provider specializing in VoIP and converged IP voice, video and data services for business customers. Trusted by thousands of business enterprise users, communication agents, partners and wholesalers of IP managed services throughout the world; IP5280 offers carrier-class communications for businesses large and small, with significant savings over traditional phone company business services. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as a part of the prestigious 2010 Inc500 list as one of the country’s fastest growing companies, winner of the Technology Service of the 2011 CSIA Apex Awards, selected by ColoradoBiz Magazine as the Best Company to Work For in Colorado in 2011, and proudly ranked by the magazine as a part of the elite Colorado TOP250 Private Companies in Colorado, IP5280 provides businesses the most advanced IP solutions to meet a variety of networking and communication needs. See more at www.ip5280.com.  

How Does An IP PBX Work?

2011-07-28T07:01:00.005-05:00

Private Branch Exchanges (PBXs) began life as cost-saving measures. Although a business might have many employees with many phones only a small proportion are actually on the phone at the same time. Thus the business doesn't need as many lines to the phone company as they have employees, they need some smaller number. They make do by switching the local extension of whoever makes or receives a call onto one of those lines to the phone company.

This was done manually at first: you may have seen the old images of a person at a switchboard, pulling cables and plugging them into sockets, actually physically connecting a business's local phone cable to a line that goes to the outside world and the phone company.

Later on, PBXs could be made to do this mechanically without a human to do it, then electronically. But at the end of the day it all worked the same way: plugging one of many local extensions into an outside line, making a continuous (if temporary) connected circuit.

IP PBXs changed this. Packet-switching technologies like IP don't connect a continuous circuit: points in the network look at packets of information and decide where each one should go, then a device on each end "rebuilds" them and delivers them in whatever manner they're meant to be delivered.

An IP PBX is now the connection between a phone company's public voice network and a business's data network. Instead of switching people's phone extensions to a phone company line, voice is encoded into data packets and then delivered, piece by piece as data, to phones that know how to interpret them and rebuild them as voice. An IP PBX therefore acts a bit more like a router, sending the data (which can be voice) where it needs to go (which can be phones).

Because everything is switched as data, though, you can now do many other things quite easily: conferencing, sending voie to your computer instead of your phone, storing voicemail as files, and much more.

Almost all modern large PBX's (more than 100 phones) are IP based – IP/SIP is the protocol that the parts use to talk to each other. The phones/devices on an IP based PBX may be analog, digital, IP (VoIP), soft phones (software that emulates a phone on a PC, smart phone, or other device), or Fax over IP (FoIP).

What the parts are exactly changes from brand to brand: some system have chassis (or cabinet) based systems that have specialized cards for functions (trunks, voice mail, digital phones, analog phones, message port, call processors, conference calling … ) some have routers or gateways with PSTN cards and other functions that are software based in servers (or banks of servers).

At the highest level - they work like PBX's always have. They provide connectivity to the PSTN for a bunch of phones or other devices. They connect to the PSTN through trunks - DS0, DS1/T1, PRI, BRI, SIP, Ethernet, and more .....

The PBX configuration is the main item that governs your line and trunk strategy, your calling cost structures, the integrated calling options available for the desk phone, cell phone, and full messaging integration on the desktop PC and traveling laptop.

1) Not all IP PBXs are hosted. In fact, most IP PBXs are not hosted.

2) Traditional PBXs were not all analog. In the beginning, that was true, but most PBXs built from the late 1980's on were digital and used a technology called TDM to operate.

3) IP is also transmitted over copper wires - the same CAT 5 copper wires that can connect you to the internet, but not all VoIP traffic resides on, or ever touches the internet. Most VoIP traffic actually resides on the user's LAN or private WAN.

4) IP PBXs are not always "relatively inexpensive" either. Price a cisco lately?

5) An "open source from Asterisk" is not necessarily a good starting point. IN fact, if you don't know anything about IP PBXs, that would be the worst thing that you could do.

A simplified answer would be this: an IP PBX converts analog sound waves (your voice or DTMF tones) into IP packets, labels the packets, and guides them to the proper destination where they are converted back to analog sound waves so you can hear them. The technology works in a similar fashion to the technology that you use view a movie from YouTube on your PC.

There is a lot of additional technology in place behind this premise. You need the correct network hardware in place to properly route and switch the packets. You need a connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) so you can talk to users outside of your PBX environment, etc.

For free help navigating through the maze to decide what is the right fit for your business I suggest the no cost assisstance availabe here .... Business VoIP Solution

MPLS vs Ethernet WAN

2011-07-25T06:51:00.004-05:00

Actually MPLS is a form of Ethernet WAN.

Ethernet just refers to the type of handoff. In this case, the provider is giving you a direct Ethernet handoff that can plug straight into your data network without further conversion. This would be compared to something like a T1 handoff that would need to be converted to Ethernet via hardware device or router NIC.

MPLS is a carrier managed service where you can request that specific traffic, be it based on IP or TCP port, can be given precedence over other types of traffic. This management is end-to-end, meaning that all of the carrier's routers and switches will maintain the integrity of QoS settings.

An Ethernet WAN is typically a VPN for city to city or possibly a simple point-to-point fiber connection in the case of building to build connectivity. The sort of connection operates at layer 2 only where you provide the IP addressing. With this type of connection the carrier has no perception into the traffic and therefore there is not QoS. This is typically the cheaper of the two.

I thought I’d post up some content on VPLS (Layer 2 VPN) and MPLS (Layer 3 VPN) as I’ve been asked recently about why an IT Manager would select one over the other. It was a client who had been told by the telco that provisioning layer 2 and layer 3 VPN’s would provide resiliency which isn't the case.

First it’s good to clear up that VPLS is actually an evolution of MPLS rather then a separate technology. MPLS (Multi Protocol Label Switching) is a protocol used for traffic engineering and performance increases across routed networks. So, if you think about a packet (data) traversing a providers network, pre-MPLS, the intermediate routers along the way would in the olden days (!) have to look up the destination of that packet and route it accordingly which added time (latency).

So, MPLS works on a concept called labels hence it’s name - so rather than the router having to perform a lookup at every point along the way, pre-determined paths are provisioned meaning that a packet follows a “label switched path” through the network increasing performance.

VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) is now being offered by carriers as a method of extending LAN connectivity to each of your sites at layer 2. So, essentially you’re provided with Ethernet handoff at each of your sites effectively providing you with LAN connectivity. True VPLS is provided as any to any connectivity in the same way as a layer 3 private “MPLS” VPN. At any rate, VPLS is provided over a providers core MPLS network hence why it does not, as standard, offer resiliency.

So, why would you as an IT Manager or IT Director select one or the other? Well, the strong differentiator is the Layer 2 and Layer 3 difference on the OSI model. At layer 2, you have much more control of your network. So, if for example you have a legacy protocol which needs to be transported between your sites, a Layer 2 VPN allows you to control layer 3. These protocols may not be not be supported by a providers layer 3 MPLS VPN as standard which may force you down the VPLS route. At Layer 2, the network performs like the LAN so you have that layer 2 control. If you manage your own routers and CPE, a layer 2 VPN is also a good option since, again, you’re in control of the layer 3 routed element and can deal with requirements at layer 3 as they arise.

It is possible to mix and match - you could for example interconnect hosting sites via layer 2 and all other branch sites via layer 3.

For more information and free assistance to help you decide what the right solution would be for your business network .... take advantage of the no cost support avilable here: MPLS and Business Ethernet

What Is The Difference Between VoIP And VoLTE

2011-07-21T07:42:00.005-05:00

VOIP .... Voice over Internet Protocol (Voice over IP, VoIP) is one of a family of internet technologies, communication protocols, and transmission technologies for delivery of voice communications and multimedia sessions over Internet Protocol (IP) networks, such as the Internet. Other terms frequently encountered and often used synonymously with VoIP are IP telephony, Internet telephony, voice over broadband (VoBB), broadband telephony, and broadband phone.

VoLTE .... VoLTE (Voice over LTE) initiative was formally announced on 15th February 2010. In establishing the VoLTE initiative, GSMA has adopted the work of the One Voice Initiative as the basis of the work to lead the global mobile industry towards a standard way of delivering voice and messaging services for Long-Term Evolution (LTE). Using IP Multimedia Subsystem specifications developed by 3GPP as its basis, GSMA have expanded upon the original scope of One Voice work to address the entire end-to-end voice and SMS ecosystem by also focussing on Roaming and Interconnect interfaces, in addition the interface between customer and network.

VoIP used to be initially offered through DSL (even dial-ups) and other low bandwidth IP Backbones. Later on with the advent of MPLS IP backbones and other high bandwidth options along with good compression equipments, Voice started to get the much needed bandwidth resulting in voice quality enhancement.

VoLTE would be delivering Voice on the LTE media which can be 3G or 4G,eventhough LTE is marketed as 4G as of now.This is as of now on 3GPP(3rd Generation Partnership Project).

As far as business is concerned, it is like any kind of innovation and new enhancement always cannibalizes the good old technology. In the same way, VoIP with its limitations can be widely replaced by VoLTE, which is more of a GSM based or ease of use standard. However, with more high bandwidth IP backbone on offering nowadays, VoIP can also co-exist.

For help deciding which approach is best for your business application(s) take advantage of the free assistance offered here .... Business VoIP Solution

Cell Phone Broadband-Not Just For Cell Phones Anymore!

2011-07-19T12:52:00.001-05:00

Today I had the pleasure of experiencing a new twist on an established wireless product in the business segment. Recently, Sprint wireless announced agreements to sell a Linksys WIFI router. Big deal, you might say, but in reality it is. What this router can accomplish is integration with their EV-DO high speed cell network by being able to plug a wireless data card that Sprint currently sells into it. So what does this mean? Basically, it allows you to bypass paying a DSL, cable modem or fractional T1 for your business' data connectivity. This is a great solution for companies that need connectivity right away and can't wait for a service provider to install service and it is also great as a backup, redundant link as well. Rev A, their newest protocol is promising download of 2.4Mbit/s to 3.1Mbit/s and a new uplink around 1.8Mbit/s. This is a very affordable and convenient solution for any small business or for a branch/satellite office that requires low cost, fast deployment and reasonable data speeds.

I find it very interesting that cell phone carriers won't be just for cell phones any more. This is a step in the direction of offering new and competitive last mile solutions to compete with the Baby Bells such as Verizon, Qwest, Bell South and SBC Communications. It probably won't completely replace landline service, but it does give an attractive alternative.

In conclusion, this is the beginning of a new dawn in the continuing evolution of data connectivity and the Internet, enjoy the ride!

Joe Diviak, Telecom Ninja