Internode reveals new SHDSL options

Internet service provider Internode this morning announced new symmetrical broadband (SHDSL) pricing as it revealed plans to double the reach of the services for 2010.

SHDSL or Symmetrical Digital Subscriber Line, is targeted towards small to medium enterprises or corporate users, and increases the speed and digital capacity of conventional phone lines. SHDSL provides higher-speed two-way internet access, allowing businesses to utilise applications like video-conferencing, IP telephony and virtual private networks more efficiently.

Internode product manager Jim Kellert said that a significant portion of demand for SHDSL services came from outside the IT sector, with businesses turning to SHDSL because of the need for large amounts of bandwidth for data transfer.

"For example ... we have construction firms who need to move large CAD files and medical practices using high-speed symmetrical broadband for diagnostic imaging," he said.

With less cost and performance than optical Ethernet alternatives, SHDSL is a mid-range solution for businesses that require speeds higher than ADSL2+ capacity.

Internode's Extreme SHDSL plan has speeds of 10Mbps with a 100GB download quota. Usually costing $2000 per month, the price has been halved to $1000, providing more speed and download quota than a 5Mbps service but less than Internode's 20Mbps and 40Mbps plans. These higher-tier plans cost $2500 and $3500 respectively.

The company is currently offering free installation on the 10Mbps Extreme SHDSL plan for customers who sign up for a 24-month term.

Internode is also extending the reach of its Extreme SHDSL service, planning seven new exchanges in Adelaide, six more in Melbourne and four more in Sydney.