What is Metro Ethernet?
Metro Ethernet is a converged network based on Ethernet and MPLS technology. The network has been deployed with fiber rings ensuring network availability and resiliency to network failures.

What services are enabled by Metro Ethernet network?
The metro network provides virtual private networks (VPNs). These VPNs can be as site-to-site to connect branch offices and head office. They can also be used to provide dedicated internet.

What speeds are supported by BTC Metro Ethernet?
BTC metro Ethernet offers speeds from 512Kpbs up to 2Mbps if Leased lines and Frame relay are used as the access technologies, while if Ethernet is used as the access technology it can offer speeds from 1 Mbps up 1Gbps, with increments of 1Mbps.

What are the minimum bandwidth requirements for connecting to metro?
The minimum aggregated bandwidth of all the sites should be at least 3Mbps.

What access technologies are supported by Metro Ethernet?
BTC Metro Ethernet offers support various access technologies which includes leased lines, Frame relay and Ethernet. Depending on the distance to BTC nearest provider edge equipment either copper of fiber can be used as the access media.

What are the contract terms?
There are two options available; a 3 year and a 5 year contract.

What type of equipment is required for a metro connection?
Either a router or switch can be used to connect to the metro network (a switch can only be used with Ethernet as an access technology). BTC can provide these devices, please contact the account manager or email sales@btc.bw to request a quote.

What are the characteristics of a metro candidate?
 Multiple offices
 High bandwidth requirements
 Requirement to lower telecommunications costs through a converged network
 Progressive business and technology needs
 Rapidly evolving end customer expectations

Where is the Metro service available?
Metro Ethernet is available in various cities and towns throughout the country.

How do I apply for metro services?
Please contact your account manager or send an email to sales@btc.bw.

Does Metro Ethernet have redundancy?
Yes, due to the inherent behaviour of ring topology, BTC metro Ethernet network is highly redundant and resilient to network failures.

What comprises a metro service pricing?
Metro VPN service pricing comprises on the following components:
 Monthly Bandwidth price
 Monthly Port price
 Monthly Modem rental
 Installations
There are discount on volume and longer term contracts.

Is metro as secure as Frame relay and leased lines?
BTC metro Ethernet is built on IP/MPLS technology. MPLS ensures that the network is completely secure, in addition customers can add an extra layer of security if needed (e.g a customer can use IPSec for additional security).

What about performance and quality of service of a converged network?
MPLS inherently provides performance and QoS. MPLS VPNs address two fundamental requirements for applications – predictable performance and policy implementation. Policies are used to assign resources to applications, groups of users or servers in a prioritised way. There are 4 different QOS packages that are offered by BTC.

Why should I choose a managed solution from BTC?
A managed MPLS VPN from allows the business to concentrate on its core objectives. Running a network is not core to an enterprises business and an increasing number of companies are recognising the cost saving benefits of service provider provisioned network. MPLS technology enables service providers to be far more responsive to customer needs.