Ethernet is the name for a set of widely-used networking technologies. Almost any business with multiple computer workstations will make use of some kind of network system, and Ethernet is easily one of the most popular. It was introduced way back in 1980, and has been improved upon and modified incrementally ever since.
Ethernet first mile, (also known as Ethernet in the first mile, or EFM), is a wider form of this network, referring to an Ethernet link between a business and a telecommunications company.
Ethernet first mile has several benefits over similar business communication systems. It is quick to install, for example, and very reliable. And whilst standard business broadband offers fast connection speeds, it has asymmetrical uploading and downloading speeds. Ethernet first mile offers a consistent speed, without interruption, that is the same for both uploading and downloading.
Compared to broadband, Ethernet first mile is more secure too. This is because the connection is private - if you install Ethernet first mile at your business's premises, it acts as a direct communications link for your business and your business only.
The 'first mile' part of the name refers to the first mile between the business premises and the telecommunications company, as that is where the Ethernet first mile connection is installed - the access networks. This is the link between the public network and the business itself. From the point of view of the telecommunications company, this is known as the 'last mile'.
It is worth noting that Ethernet first mile does not replace an existing system, but is a set of specifications that allow businesses to use the Ethernet protocol over media that would not have previously supported it, such as single-mode fibre. Customers can access the service using a typical Ethernet port.
Businesses that make a lot of phone calls could benefit greatly from Ethernet first mile, because of its symmetrical download and upload speeds, because this facilitates better connectivity when using VoIP telephone services. Using VoIP can remove the need for expensive landline systems, allowing more cost savings to be made.
Many types of business can benefit from EFM, though. Busy offices with employees that need to keep in contact with clients, or creative companies that download many large files are just two of the business varieties that could benefit from this high-speed service.
One downside of the service is that the speeds that can be achieved vary depending on a business's distance from the telephone exchange. Companies that use a two-pair Ethernet first mile service that are located between 100m and one kilometre of the exchange might expect speeds of between seven and ten Mb. Those located further away will receive lower speeds, but for those that are close to the exchange, Ethernet first mile is a great all-round solution to connectivity problems.
The long and short of it, is that Ethernet first mile can make your business work more quickly and with better efficiency, because modern businesses rely on the fast transfer of data from one place to another.