Technology

The most powerful network in the UK

Metronet has worked hard to build one of the most powerful IP networks in the UK and is 100% independent of BT or any other incumbent provider.

Everything you need to know about the Metronet network:

  • The network is based on multiple resilient fibre rings, owned and controlled by Metronet. The first encircles Manchester City Centre and the second ties together Metronet’s points of presence in the major data centres in the North West which are Telecity Williams, Telecity Kilburn, Synergy House, IFL2 and Netservices.
  • Metronet’s core is built using fully supported (Smartnet) Cisco equipment, making it one of the most modern and powerful networks in the UK.
  • The network utilises IP transit from three of the world’s top five transit providers (Level3, Global Crossing, and Cogent) as well as a number of private peering sessions and private interconnects.
  • Metronet’s network is monitored in house 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Every single component of the network including CPE equipment is polled each second according to several criteria to monitor uptime and allow rapid remote diagnosis and correction of issues.
  • The network is supported by Metronet’s own network of technology specialists and engineers. No functions are outsourced and all elements of the network are accessible to Metronet 100% of the time.

Points of Presence (PoP)

The Metronet wireless network is serviced by high rise PoP sites that ensure maximum coverage for the urban areas in which it operates. Equipment is securely housed in state-of-the-art purpose-built enclosures with full redundancy, including complete battery backup to accommodate mains failure.

Wireless Local Loop

A Metronet private circuit is provisioned using a local loop delivered via a carrier grade wireless link and is the last mile alternative to a circuit from BT or any other traditional provider.

Customer site service is enabled by the installation of a small radio attached to the exterior of the building from an industry standard Cat5 cable runs to the IT or Server room, or other locations within the building. Here it is presented using an Ethernet RJ45 presentation unless otherwise specified.

Connectivity and Topology

PoP sites are all connected using a hybrid of Metronet's own fault-tolerant dark fibre ring and Carrier Grade Gigabit Radio or Microwave solutions. The result is the most resilient metropolitan area network possible.

Metronet utilises several different managment platforms to monitor every single component of the network in real time. The sophisticated and detailed monitoring criteria enable Metronet staff to analyse unusual events, diagnose problems promptly and take corrective action remotely, usually before customers are effected or aware of any network errors.

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