💡 What Does “Business Connectivity” Mean?

Business connectivity is just another way of saying:

“How your workplace connects to the internet.”

Whether it's for video calls, emails, cloud apps, or card machines, you need a connection that’s fast, stable, and suited to how your team works.

🧠 What Are the Main Types of Business Internet?

Here are the 3 main types of internet connection you’ll come across:

1. FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) – Good

Uses fibre to your street cabinet, then copper wires to your office.

Speeds vary, and it can slow down during busy periods.

Fine for smaller teams or light usage.

2. FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) – Better

Full fibre right into your building.

Much faster and more reliable.

Great for growing teams, remote work, and cloud apps.

3. Leased Line – Best

A private, dedicated line just for your business.

Superfast speeds (up to 10Gbps), same upload and download.

Perfect for companies who rely on constant performance with zero slowdowns.

⚖️ Do Upload Speeds Matter?

Yes—more than you think.

If your team uses Zoom, Teams, sends big files, or backs up to the cloud, you need good upload speeds, not just download.

That’s why many businesses switch to symmetrical connections, where upload = download.

📶 What Else Should I Consider?

Reliability: Does it slow down at busy times? Is there backup if it fails?

Scalability: Can it grow with your team?

Support: Is there a fast fix if something goes wrong?

Security: Is your data protected?

💬 What’s Right for My Business?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Business Type Best Connection

Small/startup FTTC or entry-level FTTP

Medium/growing FTTP or FibreLight

Large or cloud-based Leased Line

Mission-critical operations Leased Line with 4G backup

📞 Not Sure What You Need?

That’s where we come in. At Gigalight, we don’t do one-size-fits-all. Our team will ask a few simple questions, explain your options clearly, and help you choose the best setup for your size, goals, and budget.

👉 Get in touch today—and let’s get your business connected with confidence.

01332 799 163

info@gigalightuk.com

FTTP vs FTTC: Why Full Fibre Is the Future of Business Connectivity

As digital demands grow, the type of connection your business relies on makes a big difference. While some providers are still offering outdated copper-based FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), at Gigalight, we deliver true FTTP—a full fibre connection direct to your building.

What’s the difference?

FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet): Fibre runs to a street cabinet, but the final leg to your premises uses slow, interference-prone copper wire.

FTTP (Fibre to the Premises): Full fibre all the way—no copper, no compromises.

Why FTTP is better for your business:

✅ Faster Speeds – Get symmetrical upload and download speeds, crucial for cloud tools, video conferencing, and remote teams.

✅ More Reliable – Copper degrades over distance. Full fibre is more stable, consistent, and unaffected by weather or signal loss.

✅ Future-Proof – FTTP is built with next-gen technology like XGS-PON, making it easier to scale up bandwidth as your business grows.

✅ Better Value – With no bottlenecks and minimal maintenance, FTTP delivers a better long-term return than older copper-based networks.

Still on FTTC? You’re being held back.

Many legacy providers haven’t yet upgraded to full fibre, meaning your business could be stuck with outdated infrastructure. At Gigalight, we specialise in helping businesses break free from copper limitations—with scalable FTTP packages and expert installation.

Ready to switch to a faster, more reliable connection?

Contact our team today and let’s build a network that grows with your business.

01332 799 161

info@gigalightuk.com

Why Upload and Download Speeds Matter in Every Business

In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, a strong internet connection isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. But it’s not just about “being online.” The speed of your connection, both upload and download, can impact productivity, customer service, and your bottom line—no matter your industry.

Download Speeds: For Everything Coming In

Download speed is what most people think of when they hear “fast internet.” It’s how quickly you can:

Load websites

Stream video content

Download large files

Access cloud platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or CRM tools

Slow download speeds mean laggy video calls, delays in accessing cloud services, and frustrated teams waiting for files to load.

Upload Speeds: The Often-Ignored Backbone of Business

Upload speed controls how quickly data leaves your network. It’s essential for:

Sending large files or backups to the cloud

Hosting smooth video conferences (especially with multiple participants)

Running VoIP phone systems or CCTV

Remote working and file sharing with teams off-site

If your upload speed is poor, your video call will freeze, your clients will hear your voice breaking up, and your team’s collaboration will suffer.

Real-world examples by business type:

Marketing & Creative Agencies: Uploading high-res images and video projects to clients or cloud storage needs strong upload speeds.

Retail & E-commerce: Syncing large inventory databases, payment processing, and live chat support all rely on reliable, fast downloads and uploads.

Professional Services: Accountants, solicitors and consultants constantly share sensitive files—quick, secure uploads keep operations flowing.

Construction & Trades: Site plans, documents, and large files are shared daily. Waiting on uploads wastes time and money.

Hybrid Workforces: If part of your team works remotely, upload speed is just as important as download. Two-way communication must be seamless.

Why Gigalight’s symmetrical speeds make the difference

With Gigalight’s full fibre FTTP, we offer symmetrical speeds—meaning uploads are just as fast as downloads. This gives your business a smooth, powerful internet experience, regardless of what you’re doing or how many people are online.

Don’t let slow speeds slow your success.

Talk to us about a future-ready internet solution that matches your business ambitions.

10332 799 163

info@gigalightuk.com

VoIP vs Traditional Phone Systems: What’s Better for Your Business?

As businesses modernise how they work, the tools they use to communicate must evolve too. One of the biggest shifts? Moving from traditional phone systems to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). But what’s the difference—and which is right for your business?

Let’s break it down.

What is VoIP?

VoIP is a technology that lets you make phone calls using your internet connection instead of a traditional phone line. It works through the cloud, meaning your calls run over your broadband connection—not old copper wiring.

Traditional Phone Systems (PSTN): The Old Way

Traditional systems use the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which relies on physical copper lines. These systems are being phased out in the UK, with a planned switch-off by 2025, meaning now is the time to modernise.

Key Differences That Matter

Feature Traditional Phone Systems VoIP Phone Systems

Setup On-site hardware, complex wiring Plug-and-play with internet

Flexibility Fixed location, limited features Use anywhere—office, mobile, remote

Scalability Costly to expand Add users easily

Cost Higher call and maintenance costs Lower ongoing costs

Features Basic calling only Call recording, analytics, menus, and more

Future-Proof PSTN is being shut down Cloud-based and built for growth

Why VoIP is the Smart Business Choice

✅ Work Anywhere – Make and receive calls from your desk, mobile, or laptop

✅ Rich Features – Voicemail to email, auto-attendants, call recording, and analytics

✅ Lower Costs – No expensive phone lines or hardware—just a handset and internet

✅ Scale Easily – Add or remove users as your team grows

✅ Stay Connected – Keep your number even if you move premises

Already using VoIP? We’ll help you do it better.

At Gigalight, we don’t just sell handsets—we deliver complete VoIP solutions tailored to your workflow. Whether you're upgrading from PSTN or looking to streamline your current setup, we’ve got the expertise and products to help.

Make the switch today.

Talk to our team to see how VoIP can modernise your business communication—quickly, affordably, and with zero disruption.

Switching to fibre broadband is one of the best upgrades a business can make. Whether you're moving to FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) or a dedicated leased line, understanding the installation process helps everything go smoothly from day one.

At Gigalight, we make fibre installation as seamless as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Site Survey

Before anything is installed, we’ll carry out a site survey—either remotely or in person. This helps us:

Assess how fibre will enter the building

Identify any obstacles (e.g. thick walls, long cable runs)

Choose the best route for internal cabling

Check if any permits or external works are required (e.g. digging or duct access)

This step ensures a smooth install, no surprises, and minimal disruption to your day-to-day.

2. Booking Your Installation Date

Once everything’s been planned, we’ll book a date that suits you. Our team will keep you updated on timescales and any access needed—especially if there’s work required outside your property.

3. On-Site Work & Setup

Our trained engineers will:

Run the fibre cable from the network point to your premises

Fit the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) or router inside your building

Tidy and secure any internal cabling

Test the connection to ensure everything is performing to spec

This part of the process can take a few hours to a full day, depending on complexity. We’ll always keep you informed.

4. Testing, Go-Live & Support

Once installed, we’ll fully test your speeds and connection quality. You’ll be connected immediately, with access to our support team in case you need help getting your devices or systems online.

We also offer guidance on:

Setting up firewalls, guest networks, or backup connectivity

VoIP phone integration (if applicable)

Optimising your internal Wi-Fi setup

What We Promise:

Professional engineers with years of fibre installation experience

Minimal disruption to your business operations

Clear communication every step of the way

Same day or next day fix promise on selected packages

Choosing the right internet provider is more than just comparing prices. Your business depends on a fast, reliable connection—so it’s critical to partner with a provider that delivers performance, support, and scalability.

Before signing any contract, here are the key questions you should be asking:

1. What Type of Connection Is Being Offered?

Is it FTTP (Fibre to the Premises), FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), or a Leased Line? Understanding the technology helps you gauge reliability, speed, and future-proofing.

Tip: FTTP offers faster, symmetrical speeds. Leased lines offer dedicated bandwidth and guaranteed uptime.

2. What Speeds Can I Expect—And Are They Guaranteed?

Advertised speeds aren’t always what you get. Ask about:

Download and upload speeds

Whether speeds are symmetrical

If performance dips during peak hours

If there are any speed guarantees in writing

3. How Scalable Is the Connection?

Your business may grow—will your connection keep up? Check whether the provider offers:

Easy upgrades to higher speeds

Additional user/device support

Options to add static IPs, VoIP, or cloud services

4. What’s the Backup Plan if the Internet Goes Down?

Downtime means lost productivity. Ask if they offer:

4G/5G failover backup

SLAs (Service Level Agreements) with fix-time guarantees

Onsite engineer response time

5. What’s Included in the Price—and What’s Extra?

Get clear on the costs:

Installation fees

Router or hardware charges

Support and maintenance

Early cancellation terms

Avoid surprises by requesting a full cost breakdown up front.

6. What Kind of Support Is Available?

When something goes wrong, you need help fast. Make sure they offer:

UK-based support

24/7 availability

Real-time monitoring or proactive alerts

Direct lines to engineers (not just call centres)

7. Do They Understand Business Needs?

Residential ISPs and business ISPs operate differently. Choose a provider that:

Understands uptime and security needs

Offers features like static IPs, VLANs, or VoIP compatibility

Can provide tailored recommendations

8. What Do Other Businesses Say About Them?

Reputation matters. Look for:

Case studies or testimonials

Reviews on third-party platforms

Longevity and track record in the business sector

Ask Smarter, Choose Better

At Gigalight, we welcome these questions—because we’re proud of the answers. Whether you’re after speed, stability, or support, we offer scalable, secure connectivity designed around how modern businesses work.

👉 Let’s talk about what you need and find the perfect setup.

01332 799 163

info@gigalightuk.com

In a world where business mobility and connectivity go hand in hand, staying online shouldn’t depend on a single network. That’s where multi-network SIM cards come in—a powerful upgrade for any business that depends on strong, consistent mobile data.

✅ What Is a Multi-Network SIM?

A multi-network SIM (also called a roaming or intelligent SIM) automatically connects to the strongest available mobile signal, regardless of which UK network it belongs to. Instead of being locked to one provider, it can switch between major carriers like O2, EE, Vodafone, and Three—without you doing a thing.

💼 Why It’s a Game-Changer for Businesses

Whether you’re managing a remote team, field-based staff, or simply need robust backup connectivity, multi-network SIMs offer serious benefits:

✔️ Unmatched Coverage

No more dropped signals in blackspot areas—your SIM will always connect to the best available network in the area.

✔️ Reliable Remote Work

Perfect for remote workers, vehicles, or IoT devices that move between regions or rural locations.

✔️ Enhanced Uptime

Use them as a backup data source for your office internet (failover), keeping you online even if your main connection fails.

✔️ Centralised Control

With Gigalight, your SIMs come with access to an online dashboard where you can monitor usage, manage costs, and stay in full control across all devices.

✔️ Flexible Packages

We offer a range of data bundles and contract options to suit teams of any size—without being tied down to one mobile carrier.

🧠 Who Benefits Most?

Businesses with staff on the road or across multiple locations

Companies operating in patchy signal areas

IT teams managing mobile networks, security, or IoT devices

Offices that need internet failover backup to prevent downtime

📶 Stay Connected. Stay in Control.

At Gigalight, our multi-network SIMs give you enterprise-grade connectivity without the limitations of a single provider. Whether you're powering a mobile workforce or building a smart backup system, we’ll tailor a mobile solution that keeps you in control.

When shopping for business internet, most providers highlight their download speeds. But there’s another number that matters just as much—upload speed. And when both upload and download speeds are equal, that’s called symmetrical connectivity.

If your business relies on cloud apps, remote access, or video calls, symmetrical speeds can make a huge difference.

⚖️ What Are Symmetrical Speeds?

Symmetrical speeds mean your upload and download speeds are the same. For example, a symmetrical 500 Mbps connection gives you:

500 Mbps download (pulling data from the internet)

500 Mbps upload (sending data to the internet)

Compare that to standard broadband (like FTTC), where you might get 80 Mbps download—but only 20 Mbps upload.

🚀 Why Upload Speeds Matter More Than Ever

In today’s digital workplace, upload speed plays a critical role in performance. Here’s why:

📤 Cloud-First Operations

If your team works with Google Drive, Microsoft 365, or cloud-based CRMs, they’re constantly uploading data. Faster uploads mean fewer slowdowns.

🎥 Video Conferencing & VoIP

Crystal-clear calls and lag-free meetings depend on strong upstream bandwidth. Poor upload speeds = choppy video and dropped calls.

🛠️ Remote Work & File Sharing

Uploading large files, designs, or backups can take forever with slow upstream speeds—hurting productivity and wasting time.

🔐 Data Backups & Security

Automated cloud backups and remote monitoring tools require fast uploads to function efficiently and securely.

🏢 Symmetrical = Professional-Grade

Symmetrical connections, often delivered via FTTP or leased lines, are built for serious business use. They offer:

Faster uploads for smoother collaboration

Greater bandwidth for multiple users

More reliable VoIP and cloud performance

Scalability as your digital needs grow

Why Gigalight Offers Symmetrical Connectivity by Default

We believe upload speed is no longer optional. That’s why our FibreLight and leased line packages offer symmetrical speeds as standard—ensuring your connection can keep up with the way modern businesses actually work.

📈 Don’t Let Asymmetry Hold You Back

If your current connection lags when your team uploads, shares, or calls—it might be time to switch. Symmetrical internet isn’t just faster—it’s smarter.

In a world where digital operations, cloud services, and video calls power the modern workplace, your business internet connection can't afford to fall short. That’s where a leased line comes in—a dedicated, business-only connection that delivers speed, reliability, and guaranteed performance.

🔌 What Exactly Is a Leased Line?

A leased line is a dedicated, private internet connection between your premises and your service provider. Unlike standard broadband, which is shared with other users in your area, a leased line is yours alone.

This means you don’t compete for bandwidth—and you get consistent, guaranteed speeds around the clock.

⚖️ Symmetrical, Reliable, Fast

One of the biggest advantages of leased lines is symmetrical speeds—meaning your upload and download rates are the same. Whether you're backing up large files, hosting cloud systems, or relying on VoIP, this makes a huge difference.

With Gigalight leased lines, we offer speeds from 100Mbps to 10Gbps, all backed by strong SLAs and business-grade support.

🛠️ Why Businesses Choose Leased Lines

Leased lines are ideal for:

Large file transfers & backups

VoIP & video conferencing

Cloud apps & remote working

Online security systems & monitoring

Offices where downtime = lost revenue

🔐 Key Benefits

Guaranteed speeds & uptime

24/7 performance with zero congestion

Low latency for real-time tools

Scalable bandwidth options

Priority support & fault response

And with Gigalight, you’ll also get proactive monitoring and a dedicated support team that understands how vital your connection is.

📡 Built for Business

If you're tired of slow speeds during peak times, patchy service, or shared broadband that holds your team back, a leased line is your next step forward.

It’s not just a better internet connection—it’s an investment in your company’s performance and stability.

👉 Contact Gigalight today to learn more about our leased line options and get a quote tailored to your business needs.

info@gigalightuk.com

01332 799 163

What Is the PSTN Switch-Off?

BT is switching off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by the end of 2025. This legacy copper-based network has powered traditional landlines for decades, but it’s being phased out in favour of faster, more reliable digital alternatives like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and full fibre broadband.

This means any services still using the old analogue network—such as landline phones, fax machines, alarm systems, card machines, and lift lines—will stop working unless upgraded.

Why Is This Happening?

The PSTN is outdated and costly to maintain. As internet-based communications have become the new standard, the switch-off is a major step towards a fully digital UK, offering better reliability, higher-quality calls, and more flexibility for businesses.

What Services Are Affected?

You may be affected if your business still uses:

Traditional landline phones on copper lines

ISDN lines or services

Analogue-connected devices (e.g. alarms, entry systems, payment terminals)

ADSL or FTTC broadband (copper-based internet)

What Do You Need to Do?

✅ Review your current phone setup – Are you still using a landline or ISDN system?

✅ Switch to VoIP or Hosted Phone Solutions – These use your internet connection to make and receive calls with better quality, lower costs, and flexible features.

✅ Upgrade your broadband – VoIP and digital services require a stable internet connection. If you're still on copper (ADSL/FTTC), it’s time to switch to FTTP or a leased line.

✅ Check connected devices – Talk to your alarm provider, card terminal supplier, and facilities team to ensure all devices are compatible with digital networks.

✅ Don’t leave it too late – Providers are already beginning to restrict new PSTN-based services. The sooner you move, the smoother your transition will be.

How We Can Help

At Gigalight, we provide:

VoIP and Hosted Telephony tailored to your business

Full Fibre and Leased Line Broadband for rock-solid connectivity

Expert advice on migrating all PSTN-dependent services

Seamless installation and ongoing support

Get Ready Today

Don’t wait for the switch-off to catch you out. Contact our team today to discuss your setup and explore modern, future-proof alternatives—designed to keep your business connected, compliant, and ahead of the curve.