* Location is everything for dual-broadband access
A few weeks ago, we requested reader opinions on the idea of using dual cable modem/DSL services as a high-availability access option for remote offices. Today, we’re including a portion of one reader’s extensive response, along with our take on a few of his points. We’ve edited the reader’s comments slightly for length and clarity.
The reader, who asked to remain anonymous, says: “The idea will certainly be a wonderful solution for many remote offices [such as home offices]. Based on the deployment in our WAN, which is primarily a broadband VPN, the challenges to this approach would include availability, support and administration.
“In terms of availability, the old adage rings true: location is everything. Depending on where the office is geographically, finding just one broadband connection can be a challenge. DSL, of course, has physical limitations that affect availability and throughput. Cable is still hard to find in business districts. Our experience indicates that we could configure only a percentage of remote offices” with both types of connections.
The reader estimates that 40% to 50% of his enterprise sites would be able to take advantage of redundant cable/DSL configurations because of service availability limitations – particularly, a dearth of offerings with business-grade service levels.
We agree that the dual-cable/DSL approach can be challenging if you are limited to a single pair of service providers. Still, many SOHO (small office/home office) locations and some ROBO (remote office/branch office) locations might be able to squeeze in under the residential rate structure – just as many businesses use residential phone service plans for home offices – perhaps widening your options a bit.
Next time, we’ll discuss concerns about support and administration.
