T1 speed connections aren't just for large corporations any more. As pricing declines many people are opting for the more reliable and flexible service over a DSL connection. Also, the growing number of bandwidth hungry applications like ASP service, VOIP, streaming video and graphic heavy files are pushing the demand for more reliable connections. So, what does it take to get one of these connections?

Getting a connection isn't as complicated as it was just two years ago. Products have been streamlines and bundled for small businesses to be able to take advantage. While a standard connection was between $1,000 and $2,000 just a few years ago a small business can now find integrated service including both voice and data on a single line for as little as $500! For most companies this is comparable the the price they already pay for DSL service and their phone service. So why not switch?

Switching to a more reliable connection is not only less expensive than a few years ago, the implementation has been streamlined. Companies quote a minimum of 30 days to perform an installation but some can perform the implementation in as few as 20 days! While this is possible with some companies not all companies are capable of this speed yet. Much of the imlementation process is handled by the LEC (Local Exchange Carrier) and is out of the hand of your service provider. With the reduced price and streamlined implementation available you may want to reconsider your current connections and get a large company service at a small company price.

While many people predicted the end of price erosion for a T1 internet connection it continues to fall. Service providers are up against stiffer competition and are desperate for new customers to fill their pipes and turn a profit. Are you ready to negotiate for a rock bottom price? Before you do, consider a few of the reasons for the drop in price on T1 bandwith.

T1 bandwidth pricing had reduces as companies have gone out of business and the large number of telecommunications companies are fighting for a place in a smaller market. While many service providers did have room to lose margin, many have come dangerously close to the edge of selling circuits at a loss and many have gone beyond this point. It seems that in the race to the bottom many providers failed to learn the lesson that selling at a loss does not create a long lasting and healthy company no matter how many circuits or widgets you sell. Many companies selling at a loss have already been in bankruptcy and look like they will repeat this exercise as they did not learn from their first go around. So, solvency of the T1 internet service provider should be a consideration when looking at great bargains.

Another consideration in bargain shopping for T1 service is the fact that all T1's are not created equal. Many providers are convinced (and rightly so) that customers are focused on price and are not concerned with quality of service. Many providers are now oversubscribing T1 service connections as though they were DSL connections. This means you may not get the bandwidth you thought you would get. Make sure when you look for that bargain price you also reveiw the SLA (Service Level Agreement) and make sure the contract protects you and guarantees you will get the bandwidth to which they committed. Remember, when bargain hunting for T1 service you'll most likely get what you pay for.