		Contention
		Asynchronous
		Bearer
		Installation
		IP Addressing
		Support

		Contention With ADSL, exceptionally low costs are achieved by contending, or sharing, the available bandwidth. A 20:1 contention ratio means bandwidth is shared with up to 20 other subscribers, each of which could be a single-user or an entire network. With a 50:1 contention ratio, bandwidth is potentially shared by up to 50 subscribers. Consequently, performance is variable depending on the level of contention and the bandwidth demands of the other users sharing the service. SotaConnect ADSL provides both 20:1 contention and lower cost 50:1 contention options.
		Asynchronous Leased line Internet connections are generally synchronous, which means that maximum bandwidth is available for both downloading and uploading data. ADSL Internet access is asynchronous with more download bandwidth available than upload bandwidth. Combined with contention, this can limit the use of ADSL in performance critical environments.
		Bearer SotaConnect ADSL requires a compatible BT direct exchange line, or ordinary analogue line. Because ADSL communicates at ultra-high inaudible frequencies, the line may be used to make either voice or fax calls whilst simultaneously connected to the Internet. A quick check can be made to establish whether an existing line is within range of your nearest ADSL-enabled exchange. If a new analogue line is required, your order can only be processed once the new line is installed. On receipt of your order, an engineering test confirms ADSL compatibility and, if successful, the line can usually be activated within 7 working days.
		Installation All SotaConnect ADSL installations include a pre-configured, high quality ADSL router, rather than a low cost ADSL modem. The ADSL router provides a more reliable connection and basic firewall security, as well as simultaneous sharing of the ADSL Internet connection by network users. In addition, technical support is improved because SotaConnect engineers can access the router remotely to identify and diagnose faults. Even home workers benefit from a SotaConnect ADSL router, which includes an integral 4-port Ethernet hub to support a home networking. An ADSL line filter is required for each analogue device (e.g. telephone handset or fax machine) which shares the same ADSL activated line. A single ADSL line filter is supplied with each SotaConnect ADSL installation, and additional filters are available on request if required.
		IP Addressing SotaConnect ADSL is provided with either a single static IP address or an IP address range. Standard network address translation (NAT) provides a basic type of firewall by translating between internal and external IP addresses, effectively hiding the PC or network from the outside world. If external communication directly with hosts residing on the private network is required (e.g. when running an SMTP mail server such as Microsoft Exchange Server) a routable IP range, or No-NAT, option is available. With the No-NAT option a SotaConnect Perimeter Security solution (appliance-based firewall) is strongly recommended.
		Support SotaConnect ADSL is provided with high quality technical support. Any technical problems arising from use of the service receive a quick and efficient response from the highly qualified and experienced SotaConnect technical support team. Support incidents which cannot be resolved by telephone, e-mail or fax, may result in a free of charge site visit by an engineer. SotaConnect ADSL is primarily a business service, which means that the quality of service is exceptionally high, compared to ISP’s focused on the consumer market.