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Elevating Remote Work: The Power of Horizon

In the wake of the global shift towards remote work, businesses worldwide are seeking reliable and flexible telecommunication solutions to empower their remote workforce. As traditional office environments give way to decentralised workspaces, the demand for innovative technologies that facilitate seamless communication and collaboration has never been more critical. Among these solutions, Horizon emerges as a frontrunner, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance remote work capabilities while prioritising flexibility and reliability.

Embracing Flexibility with Horizon

One of the key challenges faced by remote teams is the need for flexibility in communication tools. Horizon addresses this need by providing a cloud-based communication platform that allows employees to stay connected from anywhere, at any time, and across multiple devices. Whether it’s through desk phones, mobile apps, or softphones, Gamma Horizon enables seamless communication regardless of the physical location of the user.

Unrivaled Reliability for Uninterrupted Workflow

Reliability is non-negotiable in the realm of remote work. Downtime can significantly impede productivity and disrupt business operations. Horizon boasts a robust infrastructure that ensures top quality service, even in the face of unexpected challenges. With redundant systems and failover capabilities, businesses can trust Horizon to keep their communication channels open and their teams connected.

Empowering Collaboration with Advanced Features

Remote work thrives on effective collaboration, and Horizon offers a plethora of features tailored to enhance teamwork and productivity. From virtual meetings and conferencing to file sharing and presence indicators, Horizon provides the tools necessary for seamless collaboration, bridging the gap between remote team members and fostering a cohesive work environment.

Scalability to Meet Growing Demands

As businesses adapt to changing needs and scale their operations, Horizon offers the scalability required to accommodate growth. Whether it’s adding new users, expanding into new geographic regions, or integrating additional functionalities, Horizon flexes to meet the evolving demands of businesses, ensuring that telecommunication solutions remain aligned with organisational goals and objectives.

Security and Compliance at the Forefront

In an era marked by heightened cybersecurity threats and stringent regulatory requirements, Horizon prioritises security and compliance. With end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and adherence to industry standards and regulations, businesses can trust Horizon to safeguard sensitive communication data and maintain compliance with data protection laws.

Conclusion: Redefining Remote Work with Horizon

In the ever-evolving landscape of remote work, the right telecommunication solution can make all the difference. Horizon stands out as a beacon of innovation, offering unmatched flexibility, reliability, and scalability to empower businesses in their remote work endeavours. By embracing Horizon, organisations can transcend geographical boundaries, foster collaboration among remote teams, and unlock new levels of efficiency and productivity. In an increasingly digital world, Horizon paves the way for a future where remote work is not just a necessity but a strategic advantage.

Elevate your performance. Call us today on 0333 240 9100

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What is Unified Communications?

Effective communication is the cornerstone of success. As businesses navigate through a digital era, the need for streamlined communication processes becomes increasingly vital. Enter Unified Communications (UC), a comprehensive solution that integrates various communication channels into a cohesive platform. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits of adopting UC in business settings and explore strategic implementation approaches for businesses seeking to enhance their communication efficiency.

Benefits of Unified Communications:

  1. Seamless Collaboration Across Channels: Unified Communications seamlessly integrates diverse communication channels such as voice, video, instant messaging, and collaboration tools into a centralised platform. This fosters a collaborative environment where teams can communicate in real-time, share files effortlessly, and engage in productive discussions. Enhanced collaboration leads to quicker decision-making and smoother project workflows.
  2. Enhanced Productivity: The integration of communication tools in a unified platform significantly reduces the time spent toggling between different applications. With a streamlined workflow, employees can focus more on their tasks, leading to increased productivity. For B2B interactions, this means faster response times, quicker resolution of issues, and a more agile business approach.
  3. Flexibility and Mobility: Unified Communications enables flexibility by allowing employees to access communication tools from any location and device. This is particularly beneficial in B2B settings where business professionals are often on the move. At Deep Blue, for example, we can leverage UC to keep our teams connected regardless of their geographical locations, fostering a more agile and responsive workforce.
  4. Cost Efficiency: Consolidating communication tools into a unified system reduces costs associated with managing multiple platforms. Cost savings can be found in terms of software licenses, hardware maintenance, and infrastructure expenses. This is a critical advantage, allowing companies to allocate resources more efficiently.

How Deep Blue help implement solutions:

  1. Comprehensive Needs Assessment: Before adopting Unified Communications, we can help you conduct a thorough assessment of your current communication infrastructure. This involves identifying existing tools, evaluating integration capabilities, and understanding specific communication needs. This assessment sets the foundation for a tailored UC implementation plan.
  2. Employee Training and Change Management: Transitioning to a unified communication system requires proper training and change management strategies. Employees should be equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the new platform. At Deep Blue we can develop customised training programs to ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruptions to daily operations.
  3. Integration with Existing Systems: Many organisations have existing communication systems in place. An effective UC strategy involves seamless integration with these systems to avoid disruptions. Phased implementation allows for a gradual transition, ensuring that day-to-day operations continue smoothly.
  4. Security Protocols: Security is paramount in business interactions, and UC systems should prioritise robust security measures. We can assist you in setting up your system to ensure it is secure, including options like Multi-factor authentication.
  5. Scalability for Future Growth: Organisations should choose a UC system that is scalable to accommodate future growth. This scalability ensures that the communication infrastructure can evolve alongside the business, adapting to changing needs without significant disruptions. We will look not just at where your business is today, but where you are heading to make sure your system is going to be able to grow with you.

Conclusion:

Unified Communications stands as a transformative solution for optimising business communication, offering a holistic approach to collaboration and efficiency. As businesses embrace this technology, they position themselves to thrive in a competitive landscape where effective communication is not just a necessity but a strategic advantage. By carefully assessing needs, investing in employee training, ensuring seamless integration, prioritising security, and planning for scalability, you can unlock the full potential of Unified Communications and propel your operations into a new era of efficiency and collaboration.

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Navigating the Information Superhighway: Choosing the Right Broadband Connection for Your Needs

In today’s fast-paced digital world, a reliable internet connection is crucial for both personal and professional endeavors. Choosing the right broadband connection is akin to selecting the perfect mode of transportation for your journey. In this analogy, we explore the key difference of three main types of broadband connections: SOGEA, FTTP, and leased lines.

SOGEA: The Bicycle of Broadband

Just like a bicycle is a simple and cost-effective means of transportation, Single Order Generic Ethernet Access (SOGEA) is a basic broadband technology that provides a standalone, data-only service without the need for an active phone line. SOGEA gets you where you need to go, offering a connection suitable for light internet usage and small businesses and households. However, much like a bike on a busy highway, SOGEA has limitations. Its speed is constrained, and it may struggle to keep up with the demands of modern digital activities.

FTTP: The Car of Broadband

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) is the broadband equivalent of a car. Just as a car provides a faster and more efficient mode of transportation compared to a bike, FTTP offers high-speed internet by delivering data through fibre-optic cables directly to your premises. This technology ensures a smoother and more reliable connection, making it suitable for larger households, remote work, and bandwidth-intensive activities such as online gaming, streaming and file sharing.

Leased Line: The Lorry of Broadband

For businesses with heavy data traffic and demanding connectivity requirements, a leased line is the broadband equivalent of a lorry. A leased line is a dedicated, high-capacity connection that can provide symmetrical speeds for both uploads and downloads. Similar to how a lorry can carry a substantial amount of cargo, a leased line is designed to handle large volumes of data, making it ideal for enterprises, data centers, and organisations with critical communication needs.

Comparison

While all three broadband options – SOGEA, FTTP, and leased lines – will ultimately get you where you need to go, the speed and capacity of each differ significantly. SOGEA may be suitable for basic internet needs, but it’s comparable to a leisurely bike ride on a busy highway. FTTP, on the other hand, offers a faster and more reliable journey, similar to driving a car on well-maintained roads. Meanwhile, a leased line functions like a lorry on a dedicated expressway, delivering unparalleled speed and capacity.

In the world of broadband, the key is to choose the right mode of transportation for your specific needs. Understanding the nuances of each option can help you make an informed decision. If you would like to discuss your needs, and what Deep Blue can offer you, call George on 0333 240 9100 or email theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk

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Love Without Boundaries: Keeping the Number You Love in the World of Telecoms

As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is in the air, and for many of us, that love extends beyond the human realm to the digital connections that keep us linked. In the world of telecommunications, there’s a unique love story that often goes unnoticed—the bond between individuals and their cherished phone numbers. Let’s explore the importance of holding onto the number you love, even when life takes you to new places or prompts changes.

  1. A Love that Transcends Boundaries: Your Phone Number In the realm of modern communication, a phone number is more than just a string of digits—it’s a personal identifier, a virtual address, and often a repository of memories. Whether it’s the number you’ve had since you first got a phone, one that holds sentimental value or a core part of your brand identity, the connection is real.
  2. The Challenge of Moving On: Relocating Without Losing Your Number Life is dynamic, and changes such as moving to a new location or switching telecom providers used to pose a threat to the continuity of your cherished phone number. However, there are now more options than ever to ensure that your number stays with you through thick and thin.
  3. Porting Your Heart: How Number Portability Saves the Day Number portability, the ability to keep your phone number when switching service providers or moving to a new location, is the unsung hero of the telecom love story. This feature allows you to maintain that special connection, regardless of where life takes you. Say goodbye to the fear of losing touch with the number you hold dear.
  4. Ceasing the Line, Not the Connection: Keeping Your Number Alive Even if circumstances, like the PSTN switch off, lead to the termination of your current phone line, it doesn’t have to mean the end of your connection. Deep Blue offers a range of solutions to ensure that your number continues to ring true, even if it’s no longer tied to a physical line.
  5. A Love That Evolves: Embracing New Technologies Just as love grows and evolves, so does technology. Embrace new possibilities in the world of telecoms. Consider Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services that allow you to have a virtual number that’s not bound by geographical constraints.

As you celebrate love this Valentine’s Day, remember that the connection you share with your phone number is a unique and enduring one. With the power of number portability and evolving telecom technologies, you can ensure that the number you love stays with you, no matter where life takes you. So, here’s to a love that transcends boundaries, even in the digital realm! Happy Valentine’s Day from Deep Blue!

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Embracing the Future: The Benefits of the Upcoming PSTN Switch Off

As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, we find ourselves on the brink of a significant change – the upcoming Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch off. This transition marks a crucial step towards a more connected and efficient telecommunications landscape. So let’s explore the benefits of the upcoming PSTN switch off and why embracing this change is essential for the future.

Transition to IP-based Networks:

One of the primary advantages of the PSTN switch off is the transition to Internet Protocol (IP)-based networks. IP technology provides a more versatile and scalable platform, enabling the integration of various communication services into a unified network. This transition not only enhances voice communication but also opens the door to a broader range of multimedia services.

Improved Reliability and Resilience:

IP-based networks offer increased reliability and resilience compared to traditional PSTN infrastructure. With redundant pathways and advanced failover mechanisms, the new networks can better withstand disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted communication even in challenging circumstances.

Cost Efficiency:

The switch to IP-based networks can result in cost savings for both service providers and end-users. Traditional PSTN infrastructure maintenance and upgrades are costly, and the switch to more efficient technologies allows for a reduction in operational expenses. This cost efficiency can translate into more affordable communication services.

Enhanced Flexibility and Features:

IP-based communication systems bring with them a plethora of features and capabilities that were not feasible with the PSTN. From advanced call management options to integrated multimedia services, users can expect a more flexible and feature-rich communication experience. This opens up new possibilities for businesses and individuals alike.

Support for Future Technologies:

The PSTN switch off is a strategic move to align telecommunications infrastructure with the evolving landscape of technology. By embracing IP-based networks, the industry is better positioned to adopt and integrate future technologies seamlessly. This adaptability ensures that our communication systems remain cutting-edge and capable of meeting the demands of tomorrow.

While any significant change may come with challenges, the benefits of the upcoming PSTN switch off far outweigh the drawbacks. Embracing the transition to IP-based networks promises improved reliability, cost efficiency, flexibility, and support for future technologies. As we bid farewell to the era of traditional telephony, we step into a future where communication is not only seamless but also filled with possibilities for innovation and growth.

To look at your options contact Deep Blue on 0333 240 9100.

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Christmas Call Plans on Horizon and Inbound

Horizon

Use Call forward and Divert options to send calls to mobiles. Set up Voicemail to email alerts so you get copies of your Voicemail messages sent to your email for you to listen to where ever you need to. Use the Hunt Group schedule facility to plan your call plans in advanced.

Horizon Call Forward Hunt Group

Send calls to your mobile or home phone using the Hunt Group Call Forward options. Go to Call Groups>Hunt Group, click Edit next to the Hunt Group you wish to forward. To send calls directly to your Divert number, go to Advanced Settings and use the call forward option (make sure to hit Save whenever you make changes!).

To forward to another number after first ringing on your Horizon handsets go to Options and Use the Forward after x seconds option.

Voicemail to Email Hunt Group

Receive an email notification whenever someone leaves you a voicemail, including the date, time, callers number and a copy of the recording. Go to Call Groups>Hunt Group and click edit next to the number you wish to make changes to. Go to the Voicemail tab tick the box for ‘Notify me at this address’, type the address you wish the email to be sent to and click save.

Hunt Group Schedule

Add Christmas Holidays into your call Schedule. Under Advanced settings, click Edit Next to Schedule, then click the plus sign next to Additional Routing.

Name your Schedule and click Create. On the Add Event screen give your event a name and specify the start and end dates (these are displayed in month/day format). If you untick the box marked All day event you can specify your start and end times.

Once you have set your date and time you can then click create. You can add further events by clicking on Add event again. Once all your events are created, close the window. Finally, click Save.

Not sure

Just email details of the dates, times and forward number to theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk with the subject Christmas Holiday Horizon Call Plan and we will set it up for you.

Inbound

Create a Christmas Holiday call plan using the date and time control nodes to send calls where you need them, when you need them. Add in a Divert node to build additional destination numbers if your main destination is busy or unavailable. Use the ‘Schedule Activate Option’ so you can build your Call Plan in advanced, knowing it will activate when you need it to.

InBound Date and Time Control Nodes

These nodes allow you to set different termination points on different days and at different times (e.g. one for Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and one for evenings and weekends). When you add these nodes into a call plan two boxes appear, one called control and one called default. Click on the control box to specify certain days and times and then drag a destination node onto the box to specify your termination number. Drag a destination node onto the control box and any days/times not listed on the control box will follow this routing.

InBound Divert Node

This allows you to set alternative destinations if a destination number is busy, not answered or suffering from a network error. Simply drag a divert node onto a destination node and then add destinations for each of the three options.

InBound Schedule Activate

Once you have built your call plan, instead of clicking Activate, click Schedule Activate. In the window that appears specify the start date and time for this call plan then click Done. Your call plan will appear as if it is already active but if you go back to the call plan list it will show your call plan with the date and time it is due to activate next to it.

Not sure

Just email details of the dates, times and forward number to theteam@deepbluetelecom.co.uk with the subject Christmas Holiday Inbound Call Plan and we will set it up for you.

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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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Fluke testing

Fluke testing, never heard of it? No, me neither! Thankfully that’s why we have a team of highly skilled engineers working with us here at Deep Blue so when one of our customers needed fluke testing completing as part of a job we were able to help.

Have you ever wondered how engineers ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of network infrastructures? Well, Fluke testing equipment is their secret weapon!

Fluke testing helps validate, troubleshoot, and optimise network performance like never before. It’s like having a superhero for your network!

These tests can help you diagnose connectivity issues, identify faulty connections, and verify cable integrity. No more wasting hours trying to figure out why your network is misbehaving!

Network analysers can help ensure your network is running at its optimal speed, capacity, and reliability. Say goodbye to slow internet and frustrating lag times!

Oh, and did you know Fluke tests with thermal imaging cameras can even help detect hidden heat-related problems in your network infrastructure? Talk about futuristic troubleshooting!

So, whether you’re an IT professional or just someone who loves seamless network connectivity, Fluke testing is a game-changer! It ensures that your network is operating flawlessly and keeps everything running smoothly.

If you think your business could benefit from this network super hero then contact us today to find out more and book your fluke testing appointment!

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Full fibre rollout – an update from Deep Blue

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.