This is part six in a seven-part series on how IT managers and communications service providers (CSPs) can work together to simplify their migration of premises-based communications to the cloud (read the first post in the series). This particular post is focused on types of access services, the types of circuits, the method of IP services delivery, the suitability for carrying communications services, and network services that can be layered on to prioritize communications traffic.

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Layer 1 and 2 Access Connectivity Type

In the ISO (International Standards Organization) data connectivity model, Layer 1 and 2 represent the physical and data layers. The most common Layer 1 physical connectivity are copper, fiber, and radio frequencies. This layer includes both the wiring and switching equipment. Layer 2 data connectivity protocols include things such as Ethernet, PPP, and ATM. Using these layers help to understand how quality internet services are constructed. Like a building, the integrity of the foundation is critical for the overall quality of the final structure. Trying to deliver high quality internet services on poor quality wiring is both challenging and not recommended.

In this next section, we will do a quick review of access types and their suitability for IP-based business communications. This is not intended as a technical overview of access types but instead provides guidance for IT and procurement managers for their migration planning process. Key access types we will discuss are DSL, T1 / PRI, Coax, Ethernet over Copper, and Fiber-based access.

DSL and DSL Variants:

DSL or digital subscriber line is a family of technologies designed to deliver internet services over telephone lines. DSL variants include