Essentially, BMEX is a physical network comprised of point-to-point links. Once you join
BMEX, there are many benefits above a standard home or office Internet connection, such as ADSL or Cable.
The principle benefits of joining BMEX are as follows:
- By using high-quality interconnections (generally based on fibre LAN Extension Services), the connection you
get is fully symmetrical. This means that you upload speed is as fast as your download speed - which is not the case with
ADSL or Cable connections (where the difference between upload and download speeds can be as high 24 times!). Obviously,
upload speed is extremely important for any application where you need to move data around.
- Large amounts of bandwidth between subscribers is available for use at little or no cost, subject to
capacity being available.
- All the subscribers buy Internet (or Transit) bandwidth in bulk, and this is distributed over the network.
By buying in bulk, and sharing the total amount more intelligently, it is possible to allocate spare bandwidth easily and
cheaply. This means that you can "burst" traffic to a higher rate than your basic connection, if the spare is available.
- BMEX is more than a physical network. The subscribers are all committed to developing digital media in the region
and collaborating on innovative projects. By joining the pysical network, you become part of a consortium that is
shaping the Creative Industries in the South West.
