The benefits of having a flexible mobile contract for your business means that your mobile plan will change depending on your month on month need, creating the perfect combination of capability and practicality. Having the best of both worlds means you’re able to carry on with your business whilst only paying for what you need. Only need a SIM? No problem. Need the full package? No problem. We’re here to ensure you have everything you need to grow your business and carry out your day-to-day tasks without issues or excess charges.

Only paying for what you need

In some cases, all you need is the minimum to carry out your business. Flexible mobile phone contracts allow you to do just that. As a respected telecoms business, we know that some businesses will only require a specific package, whilst others will require more minutes or data. This is why we listen to your requirements, and our dedicated customer service team will tailor packages depending on your requirements offering both SIM only deals or handset deals, bespoke to you.

Freedom to choose your contract term length

Choosing the device and/or SIM deal is one thing but the term you’re paying that back is another. We offer full flexibility, which means you can choose the term length you require. You may want to pay back the amount within 3 months or spread the cost up to 36 months. The decision is yours. Flexible mobile phone contracts are the ideal solution if you’re looking for a deal which is less ‘rigid’.

Simple upgrade process

The number of mobile devices that are released across a typical year can sometimes be overwhelming. With major brands such as Samsung and Apple, frequently releasing devices, it can feel like you’re being left behind with the latest tech. Flexible mobile phone contracts typically allow for early repayment from your current plan. This means you can easily upgrade earlier than planned and find another flexible deal when the time suits you.

Apple Range

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Samsung Range

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Contact our team for more information

Interested in a new flexible contract? Our team are more than happy to get in touch and help you weigh up your options.

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Data and mobile network history have changed a lot over the years, from the initial invention of 1G to high-speed 5G. Improvements and adaptations have been made over the past 45 years – we’ve gone from unreliable call-only lines to next-generation video game streaming. 

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1G: The beginning

The creation of mobile data has been one of the greatest inventions in history. The mobile network history became one to tell the ages after its implementation into society in Tokyo, in 1979. This marks the initiation of development into data capabilities.  

Being the first version of mobile data, its strength and connectivity was rather ‘touchy’. Speeds of 2.4 kbps on average don’t allow much other than simple voice calls. Even this was difficult to master. 1G typically suffered from reliability and signal interference on a regular basis. 

It was 4 years later when the launch of 1G made its way into highly populated countries. In 1983, 1G was released commercially to the USA and 2 years later, in 1985, it made its way to the UK. 

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2G

Over 10 years later since the initial release of 1G, 2G made its way onto the scene in 1991. This time, it was released in Finland. The same year, the new updated version of mobile data became available in the UK. 

Development allowed for high speeds, up to 200 kbps, as well as encrypted calling. This ensured nobody would be able to drop into your phone calls like what was possible during the 1G period. Higher speeds also meant the general use was clearer and less troublesome – phone calls no longer disconnected unannounced, and voice was easier to understand. 

Mobile phones of this era now developed the use of the keypad in more ways than one. Texting became possible and sending texts through 2G was now possible. In addition, small bits of media such as ringtones could now be shared wirelessly.

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3G

Speed and connectivity were key development areas when researching and creating 3G. In Japan in 2001, 3G was announced and featured with speeds of up to 20 mbps – 100x the previous average from 2G. 

The increased speeds meant users could stream music, video and partake in video conferences without interruption. Alongside, roaming capabilities expanded and online browsing was possible. Simple HTML websites could be explored and the WWW became a primary focus for many companies. 

Around this time, the likes of Blackberry and Apple were introducing themselves to the masses, becoming the larger mobile phone players for the consumer.

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4G

For most, 4G is still the standard for mobile data plans and most users and providers have moved on from the previously mentioned mobile network history. Achieving up to 100 mbps+, 4G was a breakthrough in the world of connectivity. However, when it was first introduced for commercial use in Norway in 2009, to be classed as 4G, speeds of 12.5 mbps had to be achievable. Initially, this was possible so the term 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) was used. The standard use of 4G quickly became the norm once further development had been launched. 

There was only one issue with the launch of 4G – devices had to be compatible. Older mobile phones were limited to 3G and manufacturers needed to expand their offering to include 4G compatible devices. Apple and Samsung became the primary companies to offer 4G mobiles.

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5G and beyond

Continued efforts into mobile connectivity have not only expanded what we’re used to experiencing but brought it to a level we thought was impossible. 5G has allowed our mobile phones to go from simple calls and text messages to playing online games and streaming movies on the go. The speeds achievable now have gone from hundreds of megabytes to gigabytes – possibly reaching up to 20 gbps.  

In South Korea in 2019, development made these numbers happen. Depending on the level of access you have to 5G towers, you’ll be able to browse and stream to your heart’s content. Within the UK, 5G towers are still being erected to maximise coverage. While this is going ahead, 4G and 5G connectivity seamlessly work together to get you the highest speeds wherever you are. To find out more about 5G towers, explore 5Gradar’s post surrounding cell towers.

No doubt further improvements and development into 5G and beyond will take place. 

The telecoms industry has been working on improving the efficiency and reliability of telecoms in recent times and the next step is switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). The copper cable telephone network has been used since 1876 and limitations have been met. To further improve the capabilities of our communications, a switch to VoIP will take place, meaning all comms will go through the internet. 

What is PSTN?

PSTN has been the typical platform for communications for as long as you can remember, well into the 1800s. Using copper cabling to transfer telecoms originally worked perfectly. There wasn’t a need to handle such high requirements other than supporting standard calls. However, since then, many things use PSTN lines; alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV and more. Changes are needed to comfortably manage the 21^st century requirements. 

What is VoIP?

VoIP allows for communication to be transferred through digital formats rather than physical cabling. Doing so highly improves the speed and connection as the data is compressed during its online travels. Compressing one end and unpacking the other lowers the size of the information but doesn’t cause issues in terms of quality. As it’s all digital, VoIP uses your typical broadband lines such as fiber optic. It bypasses your usual telephone company and is handled by your internet provider. 

• Your mobile or landline connects to your internet (Local Area Network or LAN). 

• Your IP phone then connects to your VoIP provider to call the other party. 

• Your provider establishes the connection and exchanges data packets from your IP phone. 

• The signals are then converted into sound so you can hear the other party. 

The switch to VoIP in 2027

As of May 2024, the official ‘PSTN Switch Off’ is now scheduled for the 31st January 2027. You may be wondering why the subject is being covered so soon. This is because some buildings may need a large amount of work to fully switch to VoIP. The original copper lines may be overhead or buried beneath your feet. When switching, there’s no need to get your old lines removed. Once the switch happens, ensuring you’re signed up to a VoIP compatible broadband contract will make sure your communications won’t be compromised. 

Benefits of the PSTN Switch Off

The PSTN Switch Off takes communication and efficiency to the next level. By switching over to VoIP, there are many benefits that can stem past the communication reasons and far into the efficiency of business operations. By switching from copper cables to a stable internet connection, benefits are:

Cost savings

Typically, broadband systems cost a lot less for business owners. This is because higher speeds are being standardised, and broadband naturally covers more areas across the UK to improve efficiency. The speeds you can achieve, and the many areas broadband now covers, can highly improve efficiency. 

Clarity

Due to the speeds and capabilities of a broadband connection, clarity of calls is taken to the next level. Continued development into VoIP ensures the systems are improved regularly and speeds will heighten. 

Integration

Integration is key now days, after a world obsessed with Zoom and Microsoft Teams, integrating calling software is the bare minimum we expect for our businesses. This will ultimately reduce costs on handsets and reduce time between calls. 

Actions you need to take

You may be wondering about the next steps you need to take to ensure your communications aren’t compromised. You’ve got till the 31st January 2027, however in some cases, premises may need some additional work to get you up and running with VoIP. For example, you may be operating using copper cables currently. Providers are currently working on installing full fibre to all locations across the UK meaning VoIP will be available to all when that process is complete. BT have also covered additional details surrounding the PSTN Switch Off. We recommend you look at switching to a VoIP connection, using a broadband full fibre connection, as soon as possible. Doing so will reduce any worries when the deadline rolls around, and your business will be in full operation, using new VoIP systems sooner rather than later.

A whole array of telecommunication devices will be affected and need to be transferred to VoIP – landlines and handsets. To make the switch as smooth as possible, get the latest devices with us. Our experts will be able to find the perfect solution for you and your business. We will feature more surrounding the PSTN switch off in future to ensure you’re prepared. Look at our existing content and await any future information we’ll post on our website. 

The decision to have either a completely Managed IT Service or a complete In-house IT department is often a topic of conversation for many businesses. This solely depends on how you’d like IT to operate within your business; alongside your existing setup or outsourced to a specialist business.  For some, this usually depends on the size of your business. In-house IT departments usually operate well enough, however, there can be some areas in need of improvements. Managed IT Services can provide support that may not be possible with the manpower you currently have. 

When evaluating what you need in terms of IT support, you’ll have to weigh up the pros and cons of both internal and external IT support – we can help by outlining the differences.

Managed IT Services

As we’ve mentioned, the size of your business plays a significant role regarding the level of IT support you may require. For example, if your company is smaller in size, you may require more areas to be covered and managed. Whereas a medium to large company may just need some specific areas managed to save time from their existing IT department employees. 

General Cover

Hardware setups 
Microsoft 365 
Out-of-hours support 

Specific Cover

Anti-Virus protection 
Disaster recovery plan (Backups) 
Onboarding (Go-live support and project management) 

In-house IT

In-house IT departments are as they are described – in-house; you may have one setup within your premises. Internal teams typically handle the day-to-day operations from desk setups to software installations. Some teams may also feature different lines of support with a specialist handling server care and IT security. 

Other areas handled in-house

• Employee desk setups and desk moves.
• New employee technology setups such as laptops and mobiles.
• Internal software updates and machine operating system updates.
• Premises broadband monitoring.

If you haven’t used external Managed IT Services before, you may not be clear about the benefits which it can produce for your business. It may be an additional investment but the time saving for your in-house IT department can be considerable, as well as bringing in industry professionals for advice and expertise.

Additional knowledge and expertise

Managed IT Service companies typically provide support for a full range of industry types. This means that they work on various systems and with different types of people. Doing so can provide new insight into more efficient ways of working whilst constantly finding ways of improving your IT infrastructure.  

After-hours support

As per most workplaces, your IT team will head home after a long day of work along with everyone else. This does however mean if anything happens to your IT systems outside of typical work hours, you may struggle for some assistance. The issue could also be missed until the early hours of the next day. To counter this, after-hours support can be key to smooth operations and limited downtime.  

Control specific areas

Your in-house IT department will likely handle anything from desk setups to server maintenance. It may be time for you to delegate the responsibilities to make time for the impactful tasks from an internal point of view. By handing over the reins to the specific tasks like server maintenance and software setups to a Managed IT Service company, you and your team can focus on the day-to-day jobs with no interruptions. 

When speaking to a Managed IT Service company, such as our own IT Services department, they’ll happily tailor to your needs. They understand that you may need a smaller level of care in terms of hardware setups or a larger level of support in the form of server maintenance. We highly recommend asking questions and finding out if Managed IT Services is the right solution for you to enhance the capabilities of your in-house IT department today. 

Book your free non-intrusive IT audit to see if we can offer you a reliable, cost-effective managed IT service. 

In a fast-paced world of connectivity, telecommunications play a pivotal role in shaping how we interact and how we work. As the future of telecommunications evolves, it’s important to look out for new developments and tech that will decide its adaptation across multiple industries; from 5G networks to Edge Computing, AI and everything else in between.

Transforming Connectivity with 5G

The future of telecommunications brings further development into the world of 5G. As a customer, 5G promises you lightning-fast speeds and low latency, which could increase productivity within your working environment. We believe 5G could change the way sectors work and connect with each other. Through low latency and lightning-fast connections, its ability to support a vast array of devices simultaneously will enable telecommunications, and the internet as a whole, to reach its full potential.

Securing Tomorrow’s Networks

We live in an age where cyber threats are prevalent and cyber security breaches must be dealt with, with the utmost importance. We stand by the notion that a strong and safe security structure for telecoms is vital. 

Our opinion is that Quantum communication, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, offers a new frontier in secure data transmission. 

Unlike other encryption methods, which could be susceptible to quantum computing attacks, quantum communication focuses on the inherent properties of quantum particles to guarantee unbreakable encryption. As quantum technologies mature, we are anticipating that quantum communication will play a central role in safeguarding data in telecommunications networks. 

If you are interested in delving into this topic further, we suggest reviewing MIT’s article: ‘Explainer: What is quantum communication?‘.

Powering Intelligent Networks

It is our view that Artificial intelligence (AI) is about to change every aspect of most industries and the telecommunications sector is no different. AI will provide advancements such as bespoke network optimisation and maintenance but also provide the capabilities for business owners to tailor a personalised customer experience. By using the power of machine learning algorithms, over the coming years, the telecommunications sector will have the ability to automate processes, detect problems faster, and optimise network performance in real time. AI as a concept has the power to streamline workflow but also provide new angles of productivity to a workforce. 

We judge that AI data analytics will create a much more proactive maintenance of systems. In theory, this should minimise downtime and maximise the reliability. Furthermore, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will enhance a company’s customer support, creating an individualised and personalised experience.

Connecting the Unconnected

In some remote locations where traditional infrastructure is lacking or behind the curve, satellite internet holds the promise of bridging the digital gap. With well-known and well-publicised projects such as SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, satellite systems are being designed and sent to outer space to provide high-speed internet access to even the most remote corners of the globe. In theory, this development will reduce costs and provide the world with much better connectivity. 

We believe the future of telecommunications is full of potential. It is being driven by the arrival of certain technologies that are promising to reshape, remould and reinvent how we connect and communicate. As these technologies continue to grow, we expect to see a world where connectivity is everywhere and communication is even more seamless than it currently is. 

Our telecommunications are also evolving and improving consistently. New mobile phones and data packages are being added to our offering on a constant basis. Rest assured, we will find you a solution. Get in touch with us today for more information.

As a business grows, it can be easier to both outsource your IT department or at least get the primary areas managed. If you’ve already got an IT team, doing so will allow them to focus on other pressing areas and possibly improve reactiveness when improvements and issues need to be addressed. If you don’t have an internal IT department, we’ll take away the worry of any tech issues or setups which you may personally face during usual day to day operations.

To ensure your IT department is running smoothly and efficiently, we offer a range of managed IT support to assist businesses from small (SOHO) to companies with hundreds of staff members.

What is managed IT support? 

Before knowing the benefits of managed IT support, you’ll first need to understand what’s included. As a number of areas are included within managed IT support, we recommend identifying the areas where you need support. 

Hardware 

Sourcing and setting hardware for your staff can be a lengthy process. Depending on the level of tech which each member of staff needs, it could take anywhere from an hour to multiple days of technology setup. By having a company assist with the managed IT support, you’re able to reassign your IT team’s time to other pressing matters – or save your own time if that’s something you typically carry out yourself.

Software 

The correct setup for a system as important as Microsoft 365 can be key for efficient business operations. Its capabilities from cloud data storage to client communications can be tailored depending on your needs. We’ll also handle the liaising with the software developers and program updates when required.

Security 

Business safeguarding solutions are essential for the keeping of client data. This is why we offer state-of-the-art antivirus and EDR software, as well as Machine-Learning SaaS Protection Systems to secure you from threats, right from your computers to cloud services and communication platforms.

Tech Support 

Typically, managed IT support usually includes a level of tech support which includes hardware, software and general support during any working day. Occasionally, 24/7 tech support is offered depending on the plan you decide to use. Aerial Direct IT Services does offer this as a service. 

Efficiency

Whether you have an existing IT team or not, external managed IT support will free up anyone’s time who usually carries out the typical IT responsibilities. The day-to-day tasks such as hardware setups and backup maintenance can be the focus of other supportive forces.

Cost-effective

Despite pulling in the help from another business, managed IT support can save a lot of time, leading to large money savings. This is because the usual tasks, which may take longer, can be dealt with by your IT support provider rather than internal staff – similar to the efficiency benefit.

Professional assistance

Managed IT support businesses have the key skills and knowledge needed to carry out most tasks with ease and professionalism. This is also the case if your package has 24/7 support. No matter the time of day, support will be available to you.

Get in touch for managed IT support

Our carefully crafted team have the expertise to carry out managed IT support, covering areas from hardware to 24/7 support. If you’re looking to get your IT-related areas managed externally, freeing up your employee’s time, be sure to get in touch and receive your personalised FREE IT Audit.

Request your FREE IT Audit

Get in touch for your FREE IT Audit where our experts will review your current IT solutions.

hello@aerial-direct.co.uk

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Support lines are open between
Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 17:30

Are you looking to modernise your current business communications with a virtual landline? VoIP, known as Voice over Internet Protocol is often referred to as Virtual Landline. VoIP is often used instead of using an outdated hardwired landline. The benefits are somewhat endless which allows for your business communications to be fast, efficient and simple to carry out.

To ensure you’re able to carry out business with no issues, there are a few variations which you can choose. From unlimited calls, web phone capabilities, and conferencing opportunities, the days of relying on a physical phone are over. Turn your operations into a fluid experience! 

Did you know…

From £8.99, you can take advantage of internet calling and ditch the old-fashioned fixed line! We offer a range of plans tailored to suit your needs so you’re able to carry out business with no limitations or interruptions.

Organisational

Cut down on countless amounts of time put into the organising and tracking of your communications.

Call Transfer
Conference Calls
Call Recording

Customer Experience

Improve your customer’s experience and create smooth business-to-customer interactions.

Direct Dial
Hold Music
Call Queuing

Hardware

Work seamlessly from any device, giving you the flexibility to operate from anywhere.

Multiple Devices
Roaming
Work From Anywhere

VoIP Service FAQs

We occasionally receive questions from our customers about our telecoms. These are often minor enquiries to maybe something more technical. We’ve combined those relevant to VoIP and virtual landlines to provide that much-needed clarity.

What is a virtual phone number?

VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a telephone number which is hosted online using cloud-based technology. It allows for users to phone their customers/clients from various devices without requiring a physical landline.

Can any business size have a VoIP service?

Any business can have a VoIP service. Typically, it is used by small and medium-sized businesses but there are valuable features which larger businesses can take advantage of.

How does VoIP differ from normal landlines?

The primary difference between a VoIP service compared to a traditional landline is the online nature of calls rather than a physical line. The switch to a cloud-based phone line doesn’t however hinder the capabilities.

Do I need a landline if I use VoIP?

If you’re currently using a landline, you’re able to switch to a VoIP service without any difficulties. As they operate in a similar way, but are different to one another, you’re able to stop using the landline by switching to a virtual landline. Once you do switch, there’s no need to remove the landline however you can stop using it altogether if you so choose.

Contact our team for support

Contact one of our friendly Aerial Direct advisors today if you have any questions or queries regarding your service, they are on hand and are available to help.

hello@aerial-direct.co.uk

Live Chat

Support lines are open between
Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 17:30

It’s official! Our company has been named the “Large Business of the Year” at the annual News Business Excellence Awards 2023.

This is a huge accomplishment for us and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and outstanding achievements of our employees.

Our growth has been outstanding. This success is a direct result of the clear vision and plans for the future that our leadership team has put in place.

One of the key factors that sets us apart from our competitors is our focus on our people and customers. We have invested in our people, we have increased available learning channels with in-house and industry-certified apprenticeships available to help you grow and develop. Our recent work on organising our data with our insights teams has given us a greater insight into customer buying habits which has allowed us to develop our customer experience.

Innovation and creativity are two of our core values, and it shows in the products and services we offer. Our team is always thinking outside the box and coming up with new and exciting ways to meet the needs of our customers. Whether it’s developing cutting-edge technology such as Connect or finding new and more efficient ways of doing things, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

In conclusion, winning this award is a huge honour for us, and it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees. We are proud of what we have achieved and are excited to continue on this journey of growth and success.

We’re also honoured to have been shortlisted for Employer of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, and we’d like to give a special shout-out to Alfie Russell for his nomination.

We extend our congratulations to all the other winners and finalists from Friday’s event and want to express our gratitude to the judging panel for recognising our efforts.

“We are thrilled to have won the Large Business of the Year award, but what truly makes this moment special is the recognition of our people’s dedication and hard work, this is an award recognising our entire company. As we continue to push the boundaries of customer excellence, we look forward to an exciting future.” – Jason Phillips, COO