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Why Switching to FTTP is no longer just an option

by with No Comment AnnouncementsIndustry NewsUpdate

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

by with No Comment Announcementsdeep blue telecomIndustry NewsUncategorized

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

by with No Comment AnnouncementsIndustry NewsNewsUpdate

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

by with No Comment AnnouncementsIndustry NewsProducts & Services

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

by with No Comment AnnouncementsIndustry News

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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Ofcom victim of third party Cyber attack

by with No Comment Industry News

Ofcom has confirmed that they were one of the victims of the cyber attack on MOVEit.

MOVEit provides software for moving sensitive files, such as payroll and banking information. Following the attack, confidential data of several companies that Ofcom regulates, as well as personal information of over 400 of their employees was downloaded.

The attack occurred when MOVEit was breached by hackers exploiting a critical vulnerability in their software.

In a statement, Ofcom said:

A limited amount of information about certain companies we regulate – some of it confidential – along with personal data of 412 Ofcom employees, was downloaded during the attack.

The security of commercially confidential and sensitive personal information provided to Ofcom is taken extremely seriously.

We took immediate action to prevent further use of the MOVEit service and to implement the recommended security measures. We also swiftly alerted all affected Ofcom-regulated companies, and we continue to offer support and assistance to our colleagues.

No Ofcom systems were compromised during the attack.

The attack just goes to highlight that any company, no matter the size or job they do, can fall victim to these kinds of attacks.

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Full fibre rollout – an update from Deep Blue

by with No Comment Industry NewsNewsProducts & ServicesUpdate

With technology moving at an unprecedented pace, staying ahead of the curve is vital for businesses to thrive. This is especially true of telecoms, where users demand faster, more reliable, and future-proof services. That’s why Deep Blue are working hard to move our customers onto full fibre and SoGEA broadband.

The PSTN switch off

Openreach has been planning to switch off its legacy network, including the PSTN and ISDN, for some time now. The switch-off is currently scheduled for December 2025, and this means that businesses need to start preparing for the change sooner rather than later.

At Deep Blue, we believe that the switch-off presents an opportunity for businesses to future-proof and get the most from their telecoms. That’s why we’ve been encouraging our customers to make the switch to full fibre and SOGEA services. These services not only offer faster speeds and greater reliability, but are increasingly more cost effective than their legacy counter parts.

What are we doing to assist our customers?

We’ve already moved a number of our customers onto these services, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive; with improved performance and reliability, as well as cost savings. They’ve also appreciated the peace of mind that comes with knowing that they have made the move ahead of the rush as we approach the big switch off.

For those still on ADSL and FTTC we are in the process of contacting sites that can move to start the upgrade process. The next batch of upgrades is booked for the end of May and emails for those we hope to move in June will be going out shortly.

Do you need to do anything?

You do not need to do anything as we will contact you to arrange the migration process, however, if you don’t want to wait and would like to request a move sooner then you can contact a member of the team at theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk or on 0333 240 9100.

In Summary

The switch-off of the PSTN and ISDN networks presents a great opportunity for businesses. Full fibre and SOGEA services offer faster speeds, greater reliability, and future-proofing, they can also lead to significant cost savings. At Deep Blue, we’ve already moved a number of our customers onto these services, and we believe that they are the way forward for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve.

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Switching to VoIP: Benefits and Challenges of the PSTN Switch Off

by with No Comment GeneralIndustry NewsProducts & Services

The UK is currently in the process of phasing out the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which is a network of interconnected telephone lines and switches that has been in use for over a century. The PSTN switch off is part of the wider transition to digital communication technologies, such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

The switch off of the PSTN is being driven by several factors, including the high cost of maintaining the ageing infrastructure, the growing popularity of mobile and internet-based communication, and the need for more efficient and cost-effective telecommunications systems.

Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, has set a deadline of 2025 for the complete switch off of the PSTN network. This means that traditional phone lines that rely on copper wires and fixed-line telephony will eventually be replaced by internet-based alternatives.

The switch off of the PSTN networks is expected to bring a number of benefits, including improved call quality, faster data transmission speeds, and a more reliable and efficient telecommunications system. However, it may also create challenges for some users who rely on traditional phone lines, particularly in rural and remote areas where internet connectivity may not be readily available.

To address these challenges, the UK government is working to improve the country’s digital infrastructure and ensure that all areas have access to reliable and high-speed internet connectivity. This includes initiatives such as the Universal Service Obligation (USO), which aims to provide every household in the UK with a minimum broadband speed of 10Mbps.

Overall, the switch off of PSTN in the UK represents a significant shift towards more modern and efficient communication technologies, but it also highlights the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure to ensure that everyone can benefit from these advances.

If you would like help with the Big Switch off and moving to VoIP, contact us on 0333 240 9100 or at theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk for assistance. We can provide you with the expertise and resources you need to make the transition to VoIP, ensuring that you can continue to make and receive high-quality phone calls. With our help, you can take advantage of the benefits of VoIP while avoiding the potential challenges and complexities of making the switch on your own.

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

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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?

by with No Comment AnnouncementsIndustry NewsLocal

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!