Broadband supplier takes on Eircom

CORK-BASED Nova Networks has thrown down the gauntlet to Eircom in the latest offering of broadband services.

“We beat Eircom prices by up to 66% on leased line services,” says Dave MacDonald, Managing Director of Nova Networks.

MacDonald reckons they can offer fixed line solutions at huge savings over eircom tariffs while another Cork-based company Amocom will install a broadband system for €35 per month.

General figures available indicate that set-up costs for broadband should be no more than €150.

Furthermore concerns about security can be easily dispelled. “Security is no longer an excuse to stick with dial-up, especially with the recent increases of modem hijacking. A vast range of broadband routers and firewalls are available. The latest Motorola radio units come with an integrated router, further reducing total setup cost for those who wish to use that option.” says John O’Hare of Amocom

“We are seeing a continuous increase in demand for Amocom’s wireless broadband. Word is getting out on the simplicity, availability, service levels, and tremendous advantages in terms of speed and savings.”

ComReg, the communications regulation authority has issued over 40 licences in the last 12 months alone.

Effectively, there are three types of broadband available. The cream of the crop, according to industry sources, is a fixed lease line, the second choice is a wireless link and the third option is a satellite service, which provides an adequate service but if your business is operating in real-time then the delays may be too much.

Internet cafe manager, Aidan O’Sullivan, technical manager of Wired to the World internet shops in Cork city, has seen the benefits of broadband.

“We needed to increase our capacity to allow our surfers to continue to enjoy the fastest speeds possible. Nova Networks installed a leased-line solution that has really made our network fly.”