Scotland unveils largest ethernet deployment

One of Scotland's largest ethernet deployments has been installed at East Renfrewshire Council as part of updates for its converged communications and date network system.

The network, which aims to support new applications, was installed as part of a £5 million, five-year contract deal with Telewest Business.

And the updated ethernet replaces the council's 2Mbps leased line network with a virtual private network (VPN), which the firm claims can provide bandwidths of up to 100 Mbps.

Jim Love, project manager of e-government at East Renfrewshire Council, said: "The ethernet VPN is a vital part of realising our future vision and meeting government directives. It will support a host of exciting new applications, from home working to more CCTV in schools and public spaces, and providing better access for citizens.

"Not only that but we are saving money thanks to voice over IP telephony implementation."

Across East Renfrewshire, some 60 offices have been connected to the ultra-fast gigabyte connection, including 30 primary and secondary schools.