Colt on Demand vs Console Connect: A Comparison

Software Defined Networking (SDN) and On-Demand Connectivity represent a significant shift from traditional networking by offering enhanced flexibility, scalability and efficiency. As businesses migrate to cloud-based services and require more agile and responsive network infrastructures, SDN and On-Demand Connectivity offers dynamic network management and configuration.

Colt on Demand and Console Connect are frontrunners in this field and both platforms leverage SDN to provide businesses with scalable, on-demand networking solutions. Colt On Demand, a part of Colt Technology Services, offers real-time, automated networking tailored to modern digital requirements while Console Connect facilitates seamless interconnection between applications, infrastructures and global data centres.

Their prominence in the market underscores the growing reliance on innovative networking solutions that can adapt to the rapidly changing digital environment, but we want to know which platform’s the best. So, let’s start with a bit of an overview.

‍

Colt On Demand: An Overview

Colt On Demand leverages cutting-edge software-defined networking technology and real-time automation to provide a unique ‘as a service’ model.

Customers can connect to more than 1,000 data centres, 31,000 enterprise buildings and numerous cloud-on-ramp locations as Colt on Demand provides high bandwidth networking and voice solutions that are not only on-demand but also secure.

Colt’s as a company is also recognised as a pioneer in the realm of software-defined networks and that’s why Colt on Demand caters to the needs of data-intensive organisations across diverse geographic locations.

Colt On Demand summary:

• Colt On Demand provides a network-as-a-service (NaaS) model, offering agility and flexibility in network infrastructure.
  

• It allows for real-time bandwidth changes and supports a range of connectivity types including Ethernet, IP VPN and Internet Access services.
  

• The service offers a high degree of automation and integration capabilities.
  

• Extensive and high-bandwidth network, covering key business areas in Europe, Asia and North America.
  

• Colt On Demand is recognised for its reliability and strong customer support.

‍

Key features:

• Flexibility and agility akin to cloud services.
  

• Software-defined networking and real-time automation.
  

• Connectivity to more than 1000 data centres, 31,000 enterprise buildings and 250+ cloud-on-ramp locations.
  

• Real-time service ordering via a portal or API, bandwidth upgradation and public internet connection.

‍

Console Connect: An Overview

Console Connect allows users to self-service private, high-performance connections within a global ecosystem that includes an array of partners including enterprises, carriers, cloud services, SaaS providers, IoT and Network-as-a-Service entities.

Console Connect is underpinned by one of the world’s largest private networks and provide top-tier network performance, speed and security. It caters to the digital needs of today’s interconnected users and communities by offering a secure and efficient networking experience.

Console Connect:

• Console Connect also operates on a NaaS model, focusing on digital transformation and modernising network infrastructure.
  

• It offers increased uptime, continuous maintenance, enhanced security and reduced costs.
  

• The service is known for its ability to provide private connections, which can be beneficial for security and reliability.
  

• Key benefits include the ability to offload technical risk and maintenance to the provider and the continuous improvement of network elements.

‍

Key features:

• High-performance connections between devices, applications, clouds, offices and data centres.
  

• Real-time management and control with network connection provisioning.
  

• Options for Layer 2 and Layer 3 connections, premium business internet and IoT global connectivity​​.
  

• Automated access to a private network infrastructure for enhanced security, speed and performance.

‍

Colt On Demand vs Console Connect

In the following paragraphs, we’ll be looking more closely at the distinctions between Colt on Demand and Console Connect by comparing coverage and unique features.

Reach and coverage comparison

We’ve broken down the extent and scope of Colt on Demand and Console Connect’s network infrastructures. Both platforms are designed to provide extensive network coverage but they differ in terms of their specific capabilities and the scale of their global footprints.

Colt On Demand

Colt On Demand boasts more than 1,000 data centres and 31,000 enterprise buildings, along with 250+ cloud-on-ramp locations​​. The Colt IQ Network, a 100Gbps optimised intelligent network, connects to more than 900 data centres and over 29,000 on-net buildings across Europe, Asia and North America’s largest business hubs​​.

Console Connect

This platform is supported by a 738,000km fibre network which connects all major cities across the globe with 650 data centres across 55 countries. The platform provides a secure and private network, separating traffic from the public internet to meet stringent security and compliance requirements​​.

Unique features of each service

There a couple of unique features with each platform as they cater to specific networking needs, from technical innovations to service delivery models.

Colt On Demand:

• Provides cloud-like flexibility and agility to the network under a unique ‘as a service’ model.
  

• Uses software-defined networking and real-time automation for a new network experience, enabling customers to flexibly manage connectivity​​.
  

Console Connect:

• Offers comprehensive end-to-end SLA & 24/7 support covering various network performance aspects.
  

• By owning its core network infrastructure, Console Connect provides competitive pricing and assured quality of service without relying on intermediaries​​.

‍

Colt On Demand vs Console Connect: Business Suitability

Okay, it’s time for the ultimate analysis, which platform suits which business needs, which we’ve broken down into the following.

For businesses prioritising extensive global reach and a wide range of connectivity options, Colt On Demand’s extensive network might be more suitable.

For organisations focusing on secure, high-performance global connectivity with an emphasis on automation and private networking, Console Connect is a strong candidate.

A combination of both could be ideal for businesses seeking both a wide-reaching network and specific benefits of a secure, automated and interconnected environment by leveraging the strengths of each platform.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific business requirements, including network reach, security needs and the desire for automation and real-time control over network resources.

Colt On Demand vs Console Connect: API Integration Between The Two Platforms

Both platforms have been tailored slightly to the needs of their customers but in our experience at Connected Networks, there’s often a need for the power of both platforms which is why in January 2022, API integration between the two was released.

This collaboration has been a success and it’s easy to understand why. With the API, customers of the platforms can capitalise on the additional benefits, including:

• On-demand, agile networking with direct interconnection to clouds, data centres and business partners across both platforms’ private networks.
  

• Real-time quoting, ordering and provisioning of on-demand services between the two high-performance networks.
  

• Console Connect extended its automated platform reach into new data centre locations across the UK, leveraging the speed and performance of the Colt IQ Network​​.

Colt On Demand Vs Console Connect: Conclusion

Both Console Connect and Colt On Demand have extensive global reach but they differ in their approach to network management, security and customer engagement. The API integration between the two enhances their combined offering, allowing enterprises to benefit from a more interconnected and agile networking environment, but which is right for your business depends on your needs.

Both services offer NaaS with a focus on agility, scalability and improved network management but Colt On Demand boasts a much broader geographic reach and a focus on high-bandwidth solutions, while Console Connect has the security and private nature of its connections.

To fully understand the capabilities and benefits of Colt On Demand and Console Connect, speak to a member of the Connected Networks team for detailed insights, tailored advice and the answers to any questions you may have. We’ll help you gain a clearer understanding of how each platform can be optimised to support your unique networking needs, so you can make the most informed decision for your business’s connectivity.

‍