Single Order Generic Ethernet Access, or SoGEA, is a bit of a mouthful. It doesn’t really explain what it is, either… So, we’ll explain it for you.
But first, a bit of important background information that you might not know.
In 2025 the telephone network that we’ve been used to for decades will be shut down. I won’t go into the details here, you can find our for yourself at www.pstnshutdown.co.uk
For the larger enterprises with leased line ethernet connectivity it’s not such an issue, but there are millions of businesses out there using broadband connections delivered over a telephone line.
In most business cases the telephone line isn’t used anyway.
SoGEA is the next step in moving towards the 2025 shutdown. While the analogue telephone exchanges will be turned off, there is still a huge copper cabled infrastructure providing the only means of connection to most buildings. This new product is essentially providing an FTTC internet connection over the same cables it would have done, but without the ability to use a telephone on it. Pretty simple. It’s a data-only line.
Why Naked Broadband?
SoGEA doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue. As with most things that are tricky to explain in techy terms, the moniker “Naked Broadband” has been adopted. In a way it makes a lot of sense, since instead of buying a telephone line with broadband services bolted on top, you’re just buying a broadband service.
Don’t expect it to be any cheaper though. The voice element of a traditional FTTC circuit didn’t add much to the overall cost, and it’s still using all of the same roadside cabinets, overhead poles, copper cabling and ductwork that would have been required anyway.
As the 2025 deadline draws nearer there is a huge push to get more exchanges enabled for FTTC from many of the big name service providers. in addition, the likes of City Fibre are rolling out high quality, low priced, leased lines in cities across the country. A dedicated Leased Line is cheaper now than it ever has been. Couple this with the increased demands being placed on internet connectivity for cloud storage, VoIP and SaaS products, it might well be worth upgrading.
What about those of us in non-fibre connected areas?
ADSL is a bit old hat now. Most business use exceeds it’s capability, but for those of you unable to make use of FTTC in your area there is also SoADSL. It’s the same principal, a simple ADSL line without the telephone part.
And those of us still using the telephone lines?
Well, you’ve got a few years left, but the recommendation would be to look at changing to VoIP sooner rather than later. Get in touch with a decent reseller, one that will take the time to explain your options and work with you to achieve what you want within your budget. Your existing numbers can be migrated onto VoIP very easily, so you won’t lose them. Plus, VoIP can give you significant benefits and functionality that you may not know you even needed.
Can Litenet help us?
Of course we can. We have access to portals which let us see exactly what services are available in your area. We have strong wholesale relationships with all of the big service providers, which means we can manage your phones and connectivity without you having to sit in a call centre forever. As a Value Added Reseller we are perfectly places to help you with all of your communications needs.
Contact us on 01908 794 794 or info@litenetuk.com and a member of our friendly team will be in touch.
