What is EFM? Ethernet First Mile explained

EFM stands for Ethernet in the First Mile. It is a high-speed dedicated broadband line delivering guaranteed data speeds. Unlike standard broadband, it is uncontended and symmetrical – the bandwidth you pay for is the same up, as it is down and is not shared with anyone else. This makes it ideal for Voice over IP (telephone calls across the internet), video conferencing and streaming, and sending/uploading large files to the internet.

Although the service is relatively new, it is already rapidly being adopted by internet critical businesses of all sizes due to its highly competitive and cost effective pricing. Its low price point is achieved using a combination of copper and fiber optical cabling. The “first mile” of which, being the connection between your premises and your local telephone exchange, is bonded telephone lines, with the remaining part of the network being fiber. This mix offers a well acquainted balance of resounding reliability and superb speed thereby nurturing the growing demands of internet connectivity.

EFM can be used in conjunction with other data connectivity products to provide a multi-site MPLS networking solution.

Our EFM product is an actively managed service which means we will be alerted straight away to any problems and these are rectified within strict SLAs to ensure speedy resolution. We also provide backup/failover options where required in the unlikely event of a line fault.

Questions about EFM

Do I need new equipment?

Depending on carrier and existing hardware, may need to change your router for a specific EFM router with the necessary input connections and higher throughput. All required hardware and configuration is included as part of our managed EFM service for free of charge.

When is EFM advisable?

Most companies today are heavily reliant on internet connectivity, whether it be for email, internet browsing, IP telephony, or access to another network. EFM provides the reliability and throughput of a dedicated fiber optic leased line, without the premium.

If any of the following apply to your business you should consider EFM: