Ethernet in the First Mile (EFM) is an innovative access technology used by MDNX for connecting customer sites into Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) and MPLS VPN services. It can also be used as part of a Point-to-Point or Point-to-Multipoint Ethernet service.
MDNX integrates multiple services from multiple carriers including BT and Talk Talk Business. These carriers are also used, along with others such as C&W and Virgin Media Business, for the delivery of Ethernet over Fibre local access tails.
In the case of IP services all tails, whether copper or fibre, are delivered into MDNX’s core integration facility via Gigabit Ethernet interconnects.
Diagram 1 – Providing site access into MDNX DIA and MPLS VPN services
Benefits of EFM
EFM provides a great alternative to Leased Lines, SDSL and fibre-based Ethernet services.
• Extensive UK coverage provided through multiple carriers
• Faster lead times compared to fibre
• In-built resilience with multiple copper pairs
• Ideal replacement for lower speed and often more expensive leased lines and SDSL
• Dedicated bandwidth perfect for critical data and real time application such as VoIP
• Ideal back-up option for Ethernet over Fibre due to technology and network diversity
EFM v Leased Lines and SDSL
Leased Lines and SDSL are not scalable, and bonding of circuits to get more speed is expensive due to the CPE required. EFM not only provides cost effective 2Mbps services, but also has the ability to scale to 20Mbps.
EFM v Fibre Based Ethernet
A common problem with fibre based Ethernet is the availability of fibre into buildings and the potential for excess construction charges. Copper is commonly available and hence such issues are rare. EFM is also typically less expensive than fibre for sub 10Mbps services. With fibre, the tail is 10Mbps as a minimum whereas for EFM only the copper pairs required for the desired speed, e.g. 2Mbps, need be installed.
In addition, with a lead time of 35 working days EFM has a faster delivery time than fibre based Ethernet.
EFM Service Highlights
• With BT’s EFM access, bandwidth options from 1Mbps to 10Mbps in 1Mbps increments are available
• The number of pairs used (up to 8 ) depends on distance to the customer site from the serving node and bandwidth required
• With TTB’s EFM access, either 2 or 4 copper pairs are available, delivering line speeds that vary by copper distance and number of pairs provided
• MDNX will state minimum and expected speeds
• Multi-pair operation provides more bandwidth and redundancy (if a copper pair fails the bandwidth is throttled)
• Bandwidth supplied by MDNX is uncontended.
• Services are delivered into MDNX’s core integration facility via Gigabit Ethernet interconnects terminating on multiple nodes. These interconnects are uncontended.
Service Summary
Service Management
