Compare Ethernet and T1
Many businesses ask if Ethernet or T1 is better.
Ethernet is typically the superior choice when considering speed, scalability, service level agreements (SLAs), technology, equipment needs, and cost.
T1, bonded T1, and DS3 access circuits remain viable choices for many network locations and applications. But, where it is available, Business Ethernet is a superior choice for symmetrical business-class bandwidth up to 135 Mbps. Business Ethernet shares the same business-class SLAs as a T1 line, but offers higher bandwidths at a lower cost, partially due to the efficiency of the technology. Unlike T1 lines, Ethernet uses Ethernet First Mile (EFM) bonding techniques, which provide for a more resilient service offering ensuring that if one loop in a bundle fails the remaining circuits will continue to function. Business Ethernet is also easier, faster, and less expensive to scale than a T1 line usually without a change required in equipment.
Available nationwide, Ethernet’s previous drawback was availability. MegaPath operates the largest Ethernet over Copper network in the U.S with service available in the top 50 national markets. Ethernet over Copper availability does have distance limitations from the Central Office (CO), while Ethernet over DS1 (EoDS1) provides the same speeds regardless of distance from CO. EoDS1 is not as readily available in all major markets, however its availability is quickly expanding.
Service Comparison
| T1 and Bonded T1 | Business Ethernet | Differences | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symmetry Type | Symmetrical Bandwidth | Symmetrical Bandwidth | |
| Speeds | T1: 1.5 Mbps Bonded T1: 3, 4.5, 6, 7.5, 10.5, 12 Mbps | 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 Mbps, with higher speeds available at competitive prices | Ethernet over Copper offers higher bandwidths at a lower cost. |
| SLAs | 99.99% uptime SLA | 99.99% uptime SLA | |
| Scalability | Requires additional equipment and is more costly. | Customer CPE does not need to be changed to increase bandwidth. | Business Ethernet is easier, faster, and less expensive to scale than a T1 or DS3. |
| Reliability | Link bonding: older technology with less throughput. An impediment in any one of the lines can impact the whole connection. | Loop bonding; Newer technology with greater throughput. If one loop fails, bandwidth remains available (i.e., it doesn’t impact the entire connection). | Loop bonding delivers more efficient bandwidth use and improved reliability. |
| Availability | Available nationwide in 365 metro areas | Available nationwide. EoC is distance-dependent from CO. EoDSx provides the same speeds regardless of distance from CO. | EoC has distance limitations. EoDSx and T1 do not. |
| Quality of Service (QoS) | QoS with VoIP | QoS with VoIP | Similar performance on both. |
| Speed Fluctuation | Dedicated speed will not fluctuate | Speed will not fluctuate. The maximum speed of Ethernet over Copper service depends on distance from CO; once delivered, the speed does not fluctuate. | The maximum speed of the Ethernet over Copper service depends on the distance; once delivered, the speed doesn’t fluctuate. |
| Access Connectivity | T1 voice and data line is a form of Internet connection | Builds upon standard Fast Ethernet LAN technology for simplicity and ease of connecting devices. | Ethernet simplifies device connections. |
| Equipment | All required hardware provided by MegaPath. | Uses your existing infrastructure and requires only one piece of hardware, a less expensive router. | Ethernet typically requires a lower-cost router. |
MegaPath Advantages
- MegaPath has the largest Ethernet over Copper footprint in the U.S.
- Speeds up to 135 Mbps.
- Symmetrical bandwidth which means you get the same speed for upload and download –very important if you transfer files in both directions.
- Dedicated bandwidth which means just that – what you order is for your use only – not shared with other nearby businesses.
- Highly scalable. Keeps up with constant demands for increasing bandwidth – usually without costly truck roll or change in CPE.
- 99.99% SLA backed uptime guarantee. Improve to 99.999% with Proactive Monitoring (optional).
- Affordable pricing – save up to 50% over comparable T1 service.
- Easy installation.
- Optional Complete Office™ service bundles include Ethernet, Hosted Voice, Hosted Exchange, and Data Backup.
