Understanding the Difference
When businesses start comparing connectivity options, two terms often come up: Point to Point Ethernet and Leased Line.
Both deliver ultra-reliable, uncontended connections — but they serve different purposes.
Understanding these differences helps you choose the right solution for your setup, whether you’re connecting two offices or simply need rock-solid internet access.
What Is Point to Point Ethernet?
Point to Point Ethernet (also called Ethernet Point to Point) is a private, dedicated circuit that securely connects two business sites together.
It acts like an invisible data bridge, allowing fast and secure communication between locations — without ever touching the public internet.
Because the connection is fully uncontended (1:1 contention ratio), you get guaranteed upload and download speeds. Bandwidth options range from 100Mb to 10Gb, and even 100Gb in some areas, giving businesses the flexibility to grow over time.
Common uses include linking offices, connecting a headquarters to a data centre, or transferring sensitive data between warehouses.
Think of it as your own private fibre highway between sites — no traffic, no sharing, no slowdown.
What Is a Leased Line?
A Leased Line is a dedicated internet connection that links your business directly to your ISP’s core network.
Unlike broadband, a leased line isn’t shared — meaning you always get the full bandwidth you pay for, even during busy hours.
Speeds typically range from 10Mb to 10Gb+, and every connection is symmetrical, ensuring fast uploads and downloads.
It’s the go-to solution for businesses that rely on cloud systems, large file transfers, or stable VoIP and video conferencing.
In short: a leased line is your own uncontended pipe to the internet — fast, secure, and always on.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Point to Point Ethernet | Leased Line |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Connects two sites privately | Connects your site to the internet |
| Internet Access | ❌ None | ✅ Yes |
| Speeds | 100Mb – 10Gb (up to 100Gb) | 10Mb – 10Gb+ |
| Management | Wires-only (Layer 2) | Fully managed (Layer 3) |
| Typical Use | Linking offices, data centres, or warehouses | Dedicated internet for one location |
| Cost | Slightly lower | Varies by bandwidth |
| Security | Fully private (no public routing) | Encrypted but internet-facing |
When to Choose Point to Point Ethernet
Choose Point to Point Ethernet if you need to:
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Connect two locations securely for file transfer, backups, or internal systems.
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Maintain complete data privacy with zero exposure to the public internet.
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Get guaranteed performance between two specific sites.
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Create a private inter-site link for VoIP, CCTV, or database access.
It’s ideal for businesses that already have an internet connection at both sites but need to move data directly and securely between them.
Example: A logistics firm connecting two warehouses to sync ERP systems, CCTV feeds, and real-time inventory data.
When to Choose a Leased Line
Choose a Leased Line if you:
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Need dedicated internet access for cloud applications, remote work, or customer platforms.
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Operate from a single main site or multiple locations using SD-WAN or MPLS.
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Prefer a fully managed service where routers, configuration, and monitoring are handled for you.
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Want a guaranteed uptime SLA with round-the-clock technical support.
Example: A financial services company needing high-speed, ultra-secure internet for online trading and daily operations.
Can You Combine Both?
Absolutely — and this is where many larger businesses find the sweet spot.
You can use:
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A Leased Line at each site for direct internet access.
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A Point to Point Ethernet circuit between sites for internal traffic.
This setup creates a hybrid network — the best of both worlds. You get private site-to-site connectivity for internal data, plus dedicated internet breakout for cloud and external use.
It’s also the foundation for SD-WAN and MPLS architectures, where traffic between multiple locations is intelligently managed over private and public networks.
Cost Considerations
Both solutions are cost-effective when compared to legacy technologies like MPLS, but pricing depends on:
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Bandwidth required
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Distance between sites
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Local fibre availability
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Construction or survey needs
Typically, Point to Point Ethernet can be slightly cheaper as it doesn’t include internet access or management.
However, both offer incredible long-term value thanks to their reliability, speed, and uptime guarantees.
At Connect2, we work with every major UK carrier and back every quote with our Price Promise Guarantee — if you find a cheaper like-for-like quote, we’ll match or beat it.
Final Thoughts
If your goal is to connect two sites privately, Point to Point Ethernet is the clear winner.
If you need dedicated internet access for day-to-day business, a Leased Line is your best option.
And for many businesses — the smartest approach is combining both for maximum performance, flexibility, and resilience.
Whichever you choose, Connect2 can deliver a bespoke solution tailored to your needs, backed by 24/7 UK-based support and unbeatable pricing.
Ready to Get Started?
Get your FREE instant quote today for Point to Point Ethernet or Leased Lines — both backed by our Connect2 Price Promise Guarantee.
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