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NewNet SDSL |
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| Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ |
| Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning NewNet SDSL
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What is SDSL?
SDSL stands for 'Symmetric Digital
Subscriber Line' and provides fast access internet service using existing
copper telephone links. By installing SDSL, you can take advantage of
high speed internet access through an 'always on' service making it
much easier to download information from the internet or to share
information between offices or remote workers. SDSL services are
symmetrical - which means that data can be uploaded as fast as it can
be downloaded.
How fast is SDSL?
SDSL provides much faster access than
previous alternatives such as modem or ISDN links - or expensive leased
line connections. SDSL can download and upload data at speeds from 512
Kbps to 2 Mbps (whereas ADSL uploads at 256 Kbps). And because SDSL
provides an always on connection you can transfer whenever you want -
without waiting for dial up connections to be completed.
What do I need?
BT has enabled local exchanges throughout
the country to provide SDSL service. Check that you are in an SDSL
enabled area by using the online availability checker.
If you are in an SDSL enabled area, a new telephone circuit will need to be installed to provide SDSL service.
Are there call charges for using SDSL?
SDSL is an 'unmetered' internet
connection. This means that, once you have paid your monthly
subscription, there are no additional call charges - however much you
use the internet link. This makes SDSL a very cost-effective
alternative to previous internet connections such as ISDN. You can set
up fixed links between offices secure in the knowledge that the cost is
fixed and can be budgeted in advance.
What additional services are available?
NewNet includes a range of services with
SDSL accounts - including a version of its leading 'PowerHost' web
space and hosting package offering 4 GB of web space. NewNet provides
unlimited POP email for SDSL users.
Can I connect a network to my SDSL link?
Yes - SDSL is ideal for connecting an
office (or home!) network to the internet. Connect your network to the
SDSL router and all network machines will be able to access the
internet.
What is Wires Only?
Wires Only is a service that allows you to
purchase your own choice of SDSL hardware. This gives you greater
control with reduced costs. You can purchase SDSL routers from a range
of suppliers to suit your needs and budget.
Routers allow you to connect multiple
computers to the SDSL connection - these can be set up with fixed IP
addresses or to allow network address translation (where a single
external IP is translated to an internal range). SDSL modems are only
recommended for individual computers.
What will the installation require?
SDSL is provisioned over a copper circuit.
Where possible, BT will seek to use an existing spare copper circuit
and will enable SDSL on this. The line will be terminated at your
premises to allow connection of your SDSL router. Please note that the
SDSL circuit is not suitable for alternate voice traffic. If no spare
circuit is available, or if new copper must be provided, then
additional installation charges will apply.
Where can I purchase SDSL equipment?
NewNet is able to provide pre-configured
SDSL routers for ethernet network links. NewNet will provide the
information needed to programme your choice of SDSL equipment.
I am a long way from my exchange. Will this affect my ability to receive service?
Broadband SDSL service is distance
dependent. For maximum speed (up to 2 Mbit/s) you will need to be
within 1.6 km of your exchange to receive service. 1 Mbit/s service can
be provided up to 2.5 km from the exchange and 512 kb/s up to 3.4 km.
I have ordered SDSL but the service does not appear to work?
Your first point of contact should be to
call the NewNet helpdesk on 0845 684 0689. Helpdesk staff will take you
through a series of tests to try to identify problems and to help you
to arrive at a 'fix'.
If this is a new line installation the
problem may be due to long line length or other line related problems.
If this does seem to be the case, the NewNet helpdesk will make
arrangements for a BT engineer to visit your location to test the line
and make any changes/corrections required. This may include ensuring
the copper circuit is fault free, isolating local extension wiring etc.
The engineer visit will be included within the standard repair process
and will not be chargeable.
Can I upgrade my line speed?
Yes, you can regrade your SDSL line. A
charge of £100 (+ VAT) will be made for each regrade - up or
down. Please note that a new minimum term of 12 months will apply
following a regrade. Line speed will depend on the distance between the
serving exchange and your location - please see above. If service
cannot be sustained at a requested higher speed then the line will be
regraded down to the previously sustainable service.
Can I run my own web servers?
Yes, you can run your own servers if you
opt for fixed externally valid IP addresses. SDSL can be used for SMTP
mail feeds to your own local mail server (MS Exchange, Sun Cobalt Cube,
Equiinet etc.) - allowing you to collect mail and distribute to your
local network. If you run your own mail servers, you should take steps
to ensure that your server is configured to deny open relay etc. and is
locked down to prevent its use for the distribution of unsolicited
email.
What if I don't want to buy my own equipment?
We can provide a fully programmed leased
router for SDSL business clients. Connect the router to your local
network (or PCs) and to the telephone line. Managed services are only
available on a minimum 12 month term.
Do I need to install a firewall to improve my security?
We would always recommend the use of a
firewall - particularly when systems are connected to 'always on'
internet connections and with fixed IP addresses - to protect your
local computers or network from unauthorised access or attack. You can
install personal firewall software on individual machines (Zone Alarm
or Outpost) or install a hardware firewall security device between your
SDSL router and your local network. NewNet would be pleased to advise
on suitable equipment - contact our Sales team to discuss your needs.
You should also ensure that your systems are protected by an up to date
anti-virus package - and that you regularly scan your machines!
How do I terminate my SDSL service?
NewNet require a minimum of 1 month
written notice for most SDSL services - please note that the actual
term notice is dependent on the service that you have with NewNet.
How do I obtain more IP's for my SDSL service?
You will need to contact NewNet and
request additional IP's for your circuit, the number of IP's issued for
SDSL are dependent on the service that you have with NewNet. Please
note that your IP range will change completely. |
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