Need suggestions for a redundant internet connection...

[Kojak]

We need a backup internet connection to our existing T1 service supplied by our local telephone service provider in order to maintain connection to a server in another state in the event of losing connection due to damage.

We are located in a rural area that does not have DSL service, so that is not an option.
We could add another T1 line, but it will have to be routed away from the current T1 path in order to avoid it from becoming damaged in the event of a cut line. Satellite service is a possibilty, too. We have around 150 users.

Does anyone have any suggestions or advice regarding this subject? What are some of the advantages or disadvantages of satellite service.


Thanks

 

[spidey07]

Normally this is accomplished by having a separate T1 from a different provider.

It is also normal to have "dual entrance", meaning the cables come from two separate pathways, to two different central offices.

 

[RebateMonger]

Satellite has a couple of disadvantages. But, in your situation, they might not matter much:

1) High latency
2) Slow upload speed

On the plus side, there's little investment and the monthly fee is going to be a lot less than a T1. Since you may never need it, those seem like positive attributes. Also, it'd take a pretty big disaster for the satellite connection to not work. As long as you have power, you'll probably have Internet.