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Why Switching to FTTP is no longer just an option

The digital clock is ticking! The world as we know it, especially in terms of internet connectivity, is rapidly changing. If you’re still relying on a traditional landline set-up, you need to know: The switch-off is coming, and this isn’t just about upgrading — it’s about staying connected.

FTTP, or Fibre to the Premises, is not just another tech fad. It represents a transformative shift in how we access the internet. Unlike the mixed bag of copper and fibre in traditional set-ups, FTTP provides a pure fibre optic connection directly to your home or office.

Here’s why this is urgent:

The Inevitable Switch-off

It’s not just a rumour. Traditional landline set-ups are being phased out. If you don’t make the move to FTTP, you risk losing your internet connection altogether.

Experience Superior Speed

With FTTP, buffering becomes a forgotten annoyance. Enjoy ultra-fast downloads, seamless streaming, and responsive gaming.

Economical in the Long-Term

Although there might be an initial investment, the maintenance costs of FTTP are significantly lower. Plus, no more spending on speed boosts or add-ons.

Future-Proofing

This isn’t just about keeping up with the times. It’s about ensuring you have a stable and reliable connection for years to come.

Property Value Increase

A direct FTTP connection not only enhances your online experience but also raises your property’s market value.

The switch-off isn’t just a hypothetical future event; it’s a reality we all need to prepare for.

If you’re on a traditional landline, your connectivity is on borrowed time. Reach out to a reputable FTTP provider, understand the migration process, and ensure your uninterrupted digital future.

While change can often feel daunting, this is one change you can’t afford to delay. With the impending switch-off, moving to FTTP isn’t just about superior internet access; it’s about ensuring you remain connected in this digital age. Don’t be left offline. Call our team to discuss your options on 0333 240 9100. Make the proactive switch to FTTP today!

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Full Fibre to help SMEs fulfil their digital potential

As the UK’s small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) adopt more hybrid and flexible ways of working in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is accelerating a move towards cloud-based services like Office 365 and Zoom, a move that also brings with it a greater demand for bandwidth. 

For many businesses however, this currently means putting even greater pressure on their outdated and unreliable copper-based connection, because historically the only other choice available to them has been the leap to a much more costly leased line service that most SMEs are just not able or ready to commit to.

This unenviable choice between poor copper and expensive high-end services has cost businesses valuable time and money, with 38 hours a year on average being lost due to slow or dropped connections…a failure which is costing the UK a whopping £11 billion per annum (or the entire GDP of Mozambique)! 

And the stakes couldn’t be higher, with SMEs making up 99.9% percent of businesses in the UK and accounting for three-fifths of the employment and around half of turnover in the UK private sector, it is their success that is crucial to the country’s economic recovery and long-term success. (Federation of Small Businesses, 2021: https://www.fsb.org.uk/uk-small-business-statistics.html)  

But all is not lost. For SMEs looking for a resilient solution that meets all their connectivity requirements today, but also gives them the foundations to future-proof their business as they look to grow in the future, there is now the option of a Business FTTP service, powered by CityFibre and available via Deep Blue.

The UK’s largest independent digital infrastructure platform is looking to bridge the gap between basic consumer-grade connections and high-end services​.

So why is this service such a game-changer for SMEs: 

  • Incredibly affordable price point 
  • Gigabit-capable, symmetrical speed
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Compared to copper-based services, Full Fibre is less likely to be disturbed once it’s in the ground and doesn’t suffer any variation from poorer weather elements
  • Robust SLAs providing fast response and fix times  
  • Full Fibre service meaning it isn’t impacted by the PSTN switch off in 2025 

If you’re an SME business looking for more information about CityFibre’s Business FTTP product or you simply want to get more help and advice on your connectivity options, please get in touch with us today by email theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk or call 0333 240 9100.

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Stop Sell September

Whilst there’s a chance of sounding repetitive, it’s essential to highlight the forthcoming PSTN stop sell. The PSTN, or Public Switched Telephone Network, has served as the backbone of our telephone and broadband connections in the UK for many years. However, its days are numbered, and a transition away from it is on the horizon. Although the complete switch-off won’t occur until 2025, significant changes are just around the corner and these will affect you at the office and at home.

It’s all change

The initial phase of the PSTN switch-off involves the stop sell of services that rely on the network. This means traditional analogue telephone services (landlines) and broadband services like ADSL and FTTC will no longer be available.

You might think, “We’ve heard this all before,” and you’d be right. However, as the PSTN stop sell date approaches, it’s essential to grasp the implications.

No New Sales

For those seeking a new broadband or telephone connection, whether you’re changing providers, renewing your contract, or relocating, you’ll no longer be able to purchase any service that utilises the copper telephone network. This includes standard broadband and fibre to the cabinet options, as well as landline telephone connections.

No Changes

Even if you’re already using copper-based broadband or telephone services, making changes to your existing plan will become impossible. That means no speed upgrades or switching to a different provider. Furthermore, repairs on the copper network will decrease, potentially leaving you without service in case of a significant fault.

What else could be affected?

If you’re relying on services tied to the PSTN, such as connected alarms and CCTV, be prepared for potential disruptions. These services will need to be transitioned to the new all-digital network infrastructure.

Thankfully, service providers like Deep Blue have been diligently working to make the transition from copper services as seamless as possible. Our advanced connections utilise the UK’s fibre network and will keep you connected long after the PSTN is retired. Additionally, you’ll have access to a new form of telephony known as Digital Voice, which leverages VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology for internet-based phone calls.

If you haven’t received information about upgrading your services or want to explore your options further, call our team on 0333 240 9100 and explore Deep Blue’s broadband and Digital Voice pages. Embracing the transition now will ensure you continue to enjoy reliable and up-to-date communication services.

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Openreach announces launch of Optical Spectrum Access

What is Optical Spectrum Access (OSA)?

Optical Spectrum Access (OSA) uses wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) to efficiently send multiple signals along an optical bearer (fibre optic cables and equipment). Each optical signal is given its own wavelength, they are sent through the fibre at the same time before being separated out once they reach the destination. Each wavelength can be configured to carry different data or be allocated to specific tasks.

What Options will be available?

OSA 100G single comes as a symmetrical 100GE option or a 10 channel 10GE option. It has a limited number of product options to make it straight forward and accessible.

OSA Filter Connect gives you direct access to the optical path, allowing you to connect your own wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) equipment using the spare filter ports (OR will still manage at least one wavelength).

What are the benefits of OSA?

Being a dedicated fibre connection it offers low latency, high service quality and high levels of security. It also has the shortest lead time of Openreach’s DWDM products.

Because it is designed and planned to the end users brief you are able to customise with multiple wavelength, chassis and interface options.

The option to have direct access means you can tailor and manage the service to how you use it.

OSA for the Market

Openreach have aimed to price OSA to make it a competitive and viable option as the need for data becomes ever greater.

The launch of products like OSA along with the continued roll out of the full fibre network are going to be essential to allow UK businesses to continue to compete in a global market. Especially as more and more of the things we do rely on data and fast connectivity to underpin them.

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Maximising Sales for Estate Agencies

In the highly competitive real estate industry, estate agencies rely on a dependable telephony system to meet their sales targets effectively. With the fast-paced nature of property transactions, swift and reliable communication is paramount to secure sales. Deep Blue offers comprehensive telephony solutions tailored specifically for estate agencies, empowering them to optimise their operations and maximise profitability.

The Challenge:

Estate agencies face numerous daily pressures, demanding a telephony system that can rise to the occasion. Whether it’s buying, renting, or selling properties, seamless and rapid communication is critical. In a market where potential buyers and tenants are actively searching for properties, missing a call can mean losing a valuable opportunity. Similarly, delayed contact with sellers could result in them choosing a competitor, directly impacting your bottom line. For larger agency networks with multiple offices, centralised call management becomes essential to efficiently handle call plans. Additionally, when multiple office locations are involved, ensuring clients can reach the appropriate office promptly becomes crucial to maintaining a competitive edge. Furthermore, call recording is indispensable in this sector, enabling accurate documentation and avoiding costly delays caused by miscommunication or inaccurate fee quotes. As estate agents are often on the move, attending appointments and viewings, the ability to make and receive calls while remaining mobile is vital for maximising efficiency and securing sales.

Deep Blue Solution:

Deep Blue recognises the unique telephony needs of estate agencies and provides the essential tools to drive success. Our hosted phone system offers the following benefits:

Rapid Call Handling

With our reliable telephony solution, calls are swiftly connected, ensuring no opportunities are missed in the fast-paced real estate market.

Centralised Call Management

For agency networks with multiple offices, our system offers a centralised portal to efficiently manage call plans across all locations, streamlining operations and enhancing coordination.

Efficient Office Routing

Clients can easily reach the appropriate office without delay, facilitating seamless communication and improving customer satisfaction.

Call Recording

Our system includes comprehensive call recording capabilities, enabling accurate documentation of important details and preventing potential errors that could disrupt the buying process and impact profits.

Mobile Flexibility

Estate agents can seamlessly make and receive calls while on the go, maximising productivity and responsiveness.

Deep Blue’s hosted phone system equips estate agencies with the necessary telephony tools to operate successfully in today’s competitive market. By ensuring reliable communication, streamlined operations, and enhanced flexibility, our solution empowers estate agencies to achieve their sales targets and drive growth.

Call the team for more information on 0333 240 9100.

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Understanding the Switch Off – What is Stop Sell?

To help us prepare for the digital upgrade Openreach has started their stop sell on analogue phone lines to new customers – this will be a phased operation due to be completed by September 2023 across the UK.

It’s important to note however that in some locations where FTTP is available, the stop selling in this area could be before that time. Once 75% of homes and businesses connected to a particular exchange can get full fibre broadband the stop sell will be implemented.

When Openreach is planning to withdraw a product, there is an intermediate stage called stop sell whereby further sales of that product are stopped. This ensures that the total number of lines remaining on that product does not increase, to facilitate the subsequent withdrawal of the product.

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Withdrawal

Traditional phone lines to homes and businesses will no longer be supported after this time. That’s why it’s imperative to start thinking about your transition to digital sooner rather than later.

Customers will be expected to have migrated their services to alternative products.

Looking after our customers

For customers of Deep Blue, there is no need to worry about the upgrading process. The company’s dedicated team will keep a close eye on the availability of FTTP in your area and get in touch with you as soon as it is available. They will discuss the various options with you and help you choose the most suitable one based on your specific requirements. So, sit back and relax, knowing that the experts at Deep Blue have got you covered.

What happens if you are not a customer of Deep Blue?

If you are not currently a customer of Deep Blue and are concerned about the upcoming switch to digital services, there’s no need to worry.

Switching to Deep Blue is seamless and easy, and our team will guide you through the entire process. We offer a range of flexible and affordable packages designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.

Our services are future-proof, meaning that you can rest assured that your business will be equipped to handle the demands of the digital age for years to come.

We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service, and our team will work closely with you to ensure that you get the services you need to keep your business running smoothly.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable and trusted telecoms provider, look no further than Deep Blue– call 0333 240 9100 to find out more.

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Openreach Rolls Out Full Fibre to 10 Million Premises – What You Need to Know

If you’re looking for faster and more reliable internet, you’ll be excited to hear that Openreach has now rolled out full fibre to 10 million premises across the UK. This major infrastructure upgrade will transform the way we connect to the internet, with lightning-fast download and upload speeds, lower latency, and more reliable performance.

What is Full Fibre, and Why is it Important?

Full fibre is a next-generation broadband technology that uses fibre-optic cables to deliver internet signals directly to your home or business. Unlike traditional broadband, which relies on copper cables, full fibre can provide symmetrical speeds, meaning that you can download and upload data at the same fast rate. This is particularly important for businesses and people who work from home and need to upload large files or stream videos.

It is more reliable than traditional broadband, as it’s less susceptible to interference from electrical equipment and weather conditions. This means you’re less likely to experience dropouts, slow speeds, or buffering when you’re using the internet.

How Can You Upgrade to Full Fibre?

If you’re excited about the benefits of full fibre, you’ll be pleased to know that we’ll be contacting the next round of our customers over the coming weeks to start the process of moving to full fibre. Our team will guide you through the process of upgrading your connection, including installation and any equipment changes that may be required.

In some cases, upgrading to full fibre may require a visit from an engineer to your property. However, the process is typically quick and easy, and we’ll do everything we can to minimize disruption to your service.

Conclusion

The full fibre rollout is a game-changer for the UK’s digital infrastructure. By providing faster and more reliable infrastructure to 10 million premises, Openreach is helping to transform the way we connect to the internet and unlock new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. If you’re interested in upgrading to full fibre, please get in touch with us today on 0333 240 9100 or at theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of this exciting new technology.

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Are you paying too much for your broadband?

If you’re a customer of BT, EE, Plusnet, Sky or TalkTalk, you may want to pay attention to the latest news from Martin Lewis. Following December’s inflation statistic, it’s been highlighted that these providers will be raising their broadband rates in the coming months.

What can you expect?

According to reports, customers of BT, EE, and Plusnet can expect a typical increase of 14.4% in April, while Sky will be raising prices by 9%. TalkTalk will also be increasing their rates by 14.2% for non-fixed tariffs. Three broadband customers can expect a smaller increase of 4.5%, while Virgin Media and Vodafone have yet to announce their prices.

There is a more local way!

If you’re concerned about these price hikes and are looking for a better deal on your broadband, Deep Blue can help.

Our team of experts can discuss your options and help you find a more affordable and reliable deal. With FTTP available, you can expect better speeds too!

Simply give us a call on 0333 240 9100 to get started.

Don’t let rising prices hold you back from the fast and reliable broadband you need!

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Streamlining your business communications in 2023

Less is often more, but in this case we do have to put into words the importance of the information below, so have a read and let us have your questions.

Choosing the right tools and technology to boost productivity, achieve employee satisfaction, and improve customer experience is essential in today’s world where communications and collaboration are key components of business success (primarily due to the growing reliance on remote and hybrid working practices).

Communications technology has grown and improved rapidly, going from a nice-to-have to a must-have in order to continue operations (highlighted more during the pandemic).

As we continue to adapt to this new reality, it may be time to consider if your communication solutions are suited to the demands of your business and the hybrid working era.

Bringing everything under one roof

We have all been there, our telephones with Bloggs, while our broadband connection is with Smith and all IT is run by Jones. All devices and services need each other to work but which one do you contact when one goes wrong?? You can feel caught up in a game of cat and mouse, as Jones blames Smith, Smith says it must be Bloggs and Bloggs insists it has to be Smith, etc!

You may have heard the phrase, Integrated voice solutions? Put simply, these are a type of communication solution that allows companies to manage all of their communications in one place – heaven right!

From VoIP calls, messages, broadband, mobiles, cabling and more, these unified solutions fully integrate all communications into one platform, while cloud telephony focuses on the voice aspects, and delivers telephone calls and other communication services over the Internet instead of through traditional public switched telephone network (PSTN) technologies.

With the switch off looming, you should be already thinking about reassessing your telephone supply, and potentially making the move (read more about this here).

If the above has made streamlining your business your number one New Year’s resolution, changing providers is easier than you think….

Why work with us?

The fact is that having the ability to make and receive calls, access data and business documents, and get online is crucial for every business. In a world where broadband is increasingly seen as a commodity, it can be difficult to understand what makes one provider different from any other.

Making changes when you have an established business is always difficult, this is especially true when it comes to something as critical as your telecoms.

That’s why here at Deep Blue we look after the complicated side of your communications, from the initial installation to ongoing support.

Our services are built bespoke to you and designed to make your business communications easier to manage, administrate and cost. What’s more, we only offer services that you need right now, with the functionality to grow as your business does, so you stay in complete control.

With Deep Blue, you’ll also have access to a range of other products and services. Like VoIP, Business Mobile, Hosted Voice, Structured Cabling, Ethernet leased lines and more (read more about working with Deep Blue here).

If you’re looking for a great networking and connectivity provider (and streamlining your business in 2023), call our team for a no obligation quote today 0333 240 9100 or visit www.deepbluetelecom.co.uk for more information.

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Christmas with Deep Blue

To assist in your forward planning and avoid delays during our busy period, please see below our December opening hours:

Friday, 23rd December – Closed from 12pm
Monday, 26th December – Boxing Day, Closed
Tuesday, 27th December – Bank Holiday, Closed
Wednesday, 28th December – Closed
Thursday, 29th December – Closed
Friday, 30th December – Closed
Monday 2nd January – Bank Holiday, Closed
Tuesday 3rd January – Open as usual from 9am

During the festive shut-down, EMERGENCY SUPPORT is available to our customers. Please call 0333 240 9100 to leave a message and a member of our team will be in touch.

There is no time like the ‘present’

It’s the time of year when staff holidays, festive shutdowns and events start to fill up your diaries. It’s worth thinking about what days and hours your office will be open.

What will you do when the office is closed?

Will you send calls to voicemail, leave a message to say you are shut, or do you need to divert your calls for emergencies?

Have you thought about how you will notify your customers of your Festive opening hours?

Will your staff be working from home?

Many of our services offer a range of options to manage your calls during this time. Some like InBound and Horizon can even have schedules created so that numbers divert automatically.

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