What is BTnet?

BTnet is simply a brand name for BT’s Leased line service, this service is the same as every other Leased Line provider, BT has just added their own twist on it. As many of you know, a Leased line is a fibre optic cable that run directly from the exchange point to your premises, it provides symmetrical speeds, its uncontended, there’s no contention ratio, and it all comes guaranteed with a Service Level Agreement.

Many businesses now rely on a stable connection to run properly. This particular internet service is perfect for a range of IT services, including a VoIP phone line or guest wi fi.

BTnet leased lines often become a topic of conversation for many of our customers. They often seem to think that BTnet leased lines are unlike any others (great marketing team at BT business) when in fact there is often not much difference, aside from the name. We decided to write a blog to help solve all the myths around BTnet leased lines.

So firstly, what are the myths we hear about BTnet leased lines?

1. BTnet leased lines can guarantee me 100% internet up-time- This is relating to their Service Level Agreement (SLA) and though its true they aim for 100% it’s not something they or anyone can guarantee. It does mean if service falls below 100% BT will start refunding you. However, all ISP’s that sell leased lines will have an SLA and payback scheme in place.
2. BT are the biggest provider, so I know what I am getting if I sign up to BTnet leased lines- Yes undoubtedly BT business are the largest provider of fibre leased lines (Or BTnet leased lines as they call them) in the UK. I would question if this means they are the best for you? If you Google BT reviews, trustpilot & other review sites show customer opinions.
3. BTnet Leased line support is always open- As is 99% of other fibre leased line providers. All providers we partner with also have 24/7 proactive first line support, so it tends to be fairly typical of the industry.

Advantages and disadvantages of BTnet

Like everything in life, BTnet Leased Lines come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, here are a few.

Advantages:

1. Symmetrical speeds- With BTNet Leased Lines, like all Leased Line, the speeds you receive are the same upload and download. For example, if you have a 100mb BTnet Leased Line you’ll get 100mb up and 100mb down.
2. Reliability- This type of internet connection is the most reliable you can get, since you’re the only user on the time there is no loss of speed at peak times and no contention ratio. This is invaluable for internet reliant businesses because loss of speed or evening cutting out completely could be detrimental to their innerworkings. This service is person for companies where the internet is critical.
3. SLA- All Leased Line contracts come with a service level agreement, the details in the contract agreement include a maximum 7 hours fix time, business level customer support 24/7, the minimum speed acceptable etc. If these terms are not met, then you could be due compensation and/or allow to leave the contract.
4. Security- with BTnet Leased lines security is more solid compare to fibre broadband, this is because you’re the only user on the line therefore information is harder to intercept. This is vital for business who send a receive information sensitive on a daily basis.
5. 4G assure- With all BT business internet services you’ll receive their 4G assure feature. This is a 4G service that kicks in when your wi-fi is down.

Disadvantages:

1. Price- BT’s pricing for Leased lines can be quite a bit higher compare to other ISP’s reselling BT’s infrastructure. This is because BT have the power to make their prices higher due to how popular they are and their presence within the telecom industry.
2. Install time- BTnet Leased line can take anywhere between 60-90 days to get installed, this can be a deal breaker for companies looking for a quick internet solution. Normally you will get some sort of internet in the meantime, but this isn’t always sufficient for data heavy businesses.

Why pick a BTnet leased line?

Deciding what Leased Line provider to go with can sometimes be tricky, some people go for the biggest brands, others go for the best savings, this is all part and parcel of an IT Managers job. BT Business is one of the most popular internet providers in the UK, you see them everywhere, on billboards, on TV, even hearing their name when you’re listening to the radio on your way to work.

Why you may ask, it’s simply because they were one of the first providers and have had many loyal customers over the years. But are they the best? This is up for debate, yes, they are the biggest brand out there and have provided quality products and customer service over the years, but is anyone else better?

There’re several other ISP’s that resell BT’s infrastructure at the fraction of the price, but still maintain that quality service you’d get from going with BT. So, if you’re looking for a big brand that have been around for a while and have a good reputation, go for a BTnet Leased line, but if you’re looking for a better deal with a lesser known provider who are just as reputable, look elsewhere.

In closing we understand BT have a major presence in the market but BTnet is the same as any other fibre leased line and in a lot of areas can be more expensive. So, if you’re looking to get a leased line and would like the best price, then just fill out one of our webforms, wait for a call from a sales person, and get your quotes within 1-2 working days.