In 2004, GDS launched a premium wireless connectivity service: Broadband IPT, using MPLS technology. The unique GDS network architecture ensures high-speed coverage across all major cities in Lebanon, including Beirut and Greater Beirut, Sidon, Tripoli, a large portion of the Metn region, Kesrouan, Tyre, Jbeil, Chtaura, Zahleh, and the North coast*.
Internet customers receive a leading combination of broadband access, services, and content such as:
- High bandwidth management as per customer requirement: from 64 kbps to 1024 kbps
- Asymmetric links
- Several setups and applications: VPN, Satellite Circuit for downloads, Pix and Netscreen, Voice Application** such as MSN or PC Anywhere or equivalent, and host of other features
A router*** is not a prerequisite for basic data transmission. The setup is straightforward; GDS installs its IPT equipment on-site and connects it directly to your hub or PC through the Ethernet interface. Each unit can support up to 62 virtual IP addresses and up to 3 real IP addresses.
For businesses with Broadband IPT + MPLS, customers can utilize an independent wireless network to benefit from:
- Interconnecting branches for pure data transmission; thereby, improving management through information sharing
- Offering online sales and accounting applications
- Ensuring higher productivity and monitoring results
- Providing Internet access through the GDS wireless network in head offices and major branches
* The GDS team will perform an on-site survey before making a final commitment
** Voice over IP is subject to Lebanese Law as defined by the Ministry of Telecommunication
*** A router is required if more than 3 Real IPs are requested
b-1 MPLS Definition:
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is a generic label-switched network solution, using the principle of separating control from data transfer. Developed by the Internet community, MPLS combines IP Network Layer flexibility with the benefits of a connection-oriented approach to networking.
As such, MPLS exploits a varying range of forwarding methods system to transmit multiple network layer protocols and send information over a Wide Area Network (WAN) in frames or packets.
The network uses each labeled frame/packet to determine its destination. In an MPLS network, GDS can either define explicit paths or rely on IP routing to decide the path.
b-2 Broadband Internet
Broadband Access Technology provides high-speed, high-bandwidth, and “always-on” Internet access service. GDS pioneered this Broadband Internet service across Lebanon for residential users in 2004 in close coordination and partnership with the Lebanese Ministry of Telecom (LMT), and four service providers, Cyberia, IDM, Terranet and Sodetel.
Lebanon was the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to deploy this Broadband Access Technology, using high-tech equipment from Cisco in the USA, SR Telecom from Canada, and Ericsson from Sweden.
Among its numerous advantages, Broadband Internet for residential users provides high-speed Internet access of up to 512 Kbps; a variety of bandwidths, starting at 128 Kbps; reasonably priced tariffs; the option to choose desired ISP, and 24/7 support.
b-3 SOHO
SOHO (Small Offices and Home Offices) is a broadband Internet service tailored to fit the needs of this growing sector. The GDS SOHO service provides the following technical advantages:
- Up to 512Kbps download bandwidth shared at two levels: GDS base station and ISP
- Authentication not required
- Router not needed
- VPN is allowed
- Option to choose desired ISP
- 24/7 support
