T1 Lines and T1 Internet for Business: The Faster, More Reliable Option for Businesses
Businesses can save on costs if they shift their telecommunications needs and migrate to T1 lines instead of the ordinary phone lines, and their DSL connection to the Internet. But what do T1 lines cost?
If you have about 8 or more existing phone lines for your business and you are shedding around $800 monthly just for these voice lines, you are better off using T1 lines. You will have a more efficient and more reliable non-stop Internet connection and at the same time clearer reception on your voice lines.
More and more companies are using T1 lines for their businesses because the technology allows everyone in their organizations to consistently communicate with each other and with their business partners. They are also able to become more productive online since a T1 broadband connection is definitely much faster than a dial-up, and more dedicated than a DSL.
A T1 line uses fiber optic technology that can handle more data than the traditional phone lines that are made of copper wires. There are T1 lines that are made from copper too, but most installations are now fiber optic wires.
Companies with T1 lines have leased the connecting line from the phone company to the office. A T1 line is able to handle 24 digitized voice channels or about 1.544 megabits per second of data. Compared to a regular modem, a T1 line allows data stream of about 192,000 bytes per second – that is about 60 times more 0’s and 1’s running through. That means you have a more reliable system than the rugged analog modem you’re using.
T1 lines are also known as DS1 lines. This is the popular choice among businesses these days if they want to connect to their Internet Service Providers or ISPs. It’s a dedicated setup so users can experience no delays whatsoever except if for example, all 100 computers are downloading huge videos at the same time – but, that is just the worst scenario, and it is rare (almost non-existent) in an office setup
If your company is looking to install high-speed broadband access to the Internet, you have to do some research in order to land on the T1 Internet provider that can really serve their purpose very well. Since there is a stiff competition among vendors, each of them is cooking up ways to attract customers.
Most of these providers would throw in the T1 router when you sign up with them. This device costs anywhere from $750 to $3000, but it comes free with the new subscription. Before you finalize your choice, compare the packages of every T1 Internet provider first so you can be sure to get the best deal.
Part of every T1 Internet provider’s strategy to get customers is to make the application process simple. They have simplified the process by minimizing paperwork, and simplifying credit checks. There are also promotions and discounts that are becoming a standard in the packages.
When comparing the offers, do not be swayed by the many freebies or promotions that you overlook what they really have to offer in terms of the T1 installation. Some carriers might give you the impression that they are giving you a lot of savings, but when you start using the service you find a lot of problems.
Some others may be offering you inexpensive products that they just claim to be T1 when the truth is they are inferior in quality. There are some T1 Internet providers too, that push packages they dub as burstable. Usually, these are oversubscribed T1 lines, similar to what others do with DSL.
A T1 line used for high-speed digital connection is also known as T1 circuit. This technology can be used to handle voice and data applications simultaneously over the same, single line. The speed of transmission is at a standard rate of 1.5 Mpbs, which is so much faster than your analog modem.
T1 circuits are recommended to businesses and not to individuals primarily because of the cost. T1 lines employ 24 channels for voice, data, or both. The transmission is via a fiber optic wire or sometimes via copper wires.
T1 circuits cost around $1000 to $1500 every month depending on the Internet Service Provider and where the point of installation is. One end of the T1 circuit goes to the web server, so the total cost varies depending on the combination of many fees from the telecommunications company and the ISP.
A T1 circuit can be beneficial to most business organizations like:
• Airports
• Architectural and Engineering firms
• Call centers
• Contractors, Builders, and Developers
• Hospitals
• Banks
• Financial institutions
• Government agencies
• Hotels
• Manufacturers
• Restaurant chains
• Schools
• Courier service providers
The businesses can save a lot if they would do without their existing phone lines and just use part of the T1 line for their voice application requirements. The reception is better and clearer. Aside from that, the other important aspect is the connection to the Internet, which is already a crucial thing for most businesses. Any business that is still not taking advantage of the Internet will soon become obsolete. A T1 circuit can help these organizations build more business online more efficiently and economically.