Ethernet private lines (EPLs) are dedicated, high-speed connections between two locations using Ethernet technology. Its point-to-point connectivity is often used by businesses to securely transfer data between sites.

Discussed in this article: 

• How an ethernet private line works
• Key features of EPLs
• Benefits of using an ethernet private line service
• EPL applications
• How to choose the right EPL for your business
• Why you should partner with Meter

How does an ethernet private line work?

An ethernet private line is like stretching a private ethernet cable between two locations, no matter how far apart they are. It’s a point-to-point connection that works at Layer 2, which means your data packets stay intact—no extra processing, no funny business.

Underneath, it uses fiber-optic lines to carve out a dedicated path just for you, even if the infrastructure is shared. You wind up with two places connected so tightly that it feels like they’re on the same local network.

Key features of ethernet private lines

Ethernet private lines keep data moving fast, secure, and direct. Here’s what sets them apart.

Dedicated bandwidth for consistent performance

An EPL gives you a connection that’s entirely yours. No sharing, no dips in performance from competing traffic—it’s like having an express lane for your data. The bandwidth is reserved exclusively for your use, so your connection remains steady, no matter the workload.

Point-to-point connectivity

EPLs establish a direct link between two locations, bypassing the public internet completely. The private path sends data down the shortest and most efficient route, cutting down on delays. The reliability and speed of such connections make a significant impact, especially for tasks like real-time trading or video conferencing.

Built-in security with room for more

EPLs rely on private connections that stay off the public internet, offering a solid baseline of security. For industries handling sensitive information, encryption is often layered on top. The added protection helps safeguard critical data against evolving threats and unauthorized access.

Benefits of using an ethernet private line service

When businesses need a network they can trust, EPLs deliver. From speed to security, they check all the boxes. Now let’s look at all that they offer:

No public internet, no surprises

EPLs skip the public internet altogether, keeping your data off unpredictable paths. No random detours, no unexpected slowdowns—just a private, direct route from point A to point B.

Full control over your data flow

Your network, your rules. With an EPL, traffic is yours to manage, free from any shaping or prioritization by a third party. Whatever you need—file transfers, video streams—it runs the way you want.

Plug-and-play with your current setup

EPLs don’t ask you to reinvent the wheel. They slot right into your existing network, sticking to ethernet standards without forcing you into complex configurations.

Latency stays low and steady

It’s fast and predictable. EPLs keep latency minimal and consistent, making them perfect for precision work like real-time monitoring or control systems.

Big bandwidth for big tasks

EPLs handle heavy data loads with style. Whether you’re moving massive CAD files or streaming 4K video, the bandwidth is there to keep everything flowing.

Easier to manage, easier to scale

Since EPLs work at Layer 2, you don’t have to wrestle with extra routing or IP overhead. That makes them easier to manage day-to-day and simple to scale as your needs grow.

Costs you can plan around

EPLs usually come with flat-rate pricing. No unexpected spikes or variable bills—just predictable costs you can plan for.

Direct cloud connections

If your business leans on the cloud, an EPL can link you directly to your provider. You skip the public internet entirely, which means faster access and fewer headaches.

Redundancy tailored to your needs

For businesses that need constant uptime, EPLs can be set up with dual circuits or failover systems with redundant routing. It’s your safety net for staying connected, even when something goes wrong.

How ethernet private lines keep industries moving

When secure, fast data transmission is non-negotiable, ethernet private lines deliver. They’re the hidden backbone for industries where speed and reliability are mandatory.

Banking on speed and trust

In finance, everything comes down to precision and timing. Banks use EPLs to connect branches, ATMs, and data centers, moving transaction data in real time. With security baked into the connection, sensitive data flows without interruptions or detours. It’s the kind of setup that builds trust, one secure transaction at a time.

Data centers that never sleep

For data centers, EPLs are the glue that keeps everything in sync. They link facilities across cities—or even countries—facilitating:

• Data replication
• Backups
• Load balancing

When disaster strikes, these connections make critical information readily available for recovery, cutting downtime from hours to minutes.

Fighting fraud with private links

EPLs keep data moving safely. By bypassing the public internet, these private links reduce exposure to unauthorized access. Whether it’s preventing fraud or meeting strict regulatory standards, industries rely on EPLs to keep their data protected at every turn.

A lifeline for real-time operations

Industries like healthcare and media production rely on EPLs to keep work flowing without delays. They’re used for transferring large medical imaging files and syncing video footage across teams. With low latency and high bandwidth, EPLs handle real-time data when every second counts.

EPL vs. the competition

Choosing the right network setup means understanding what each option brings to the table. EPLs go head-to-head with MPLS and EVPL in different ways.

EPL vs. MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching)

EPLs are simple. They create a straight, point-to-point link between two locations with no extra routing layers to slow things down. MPLS, on the other hand, is built for managing multiple traffic types—voice, video, data—all at once.

That flexibility comes with a catch: added complexity and potential latency.

Speed without compromise

EPL gives you exclusive use of a dedicated circuit, which means bandwidth is all yours, and latency stays low. Perfect for real-time data or heavy file transfers. MPLS can handle a mix of traffic across different locations, but because it shares infrastructure, you might see performance dip during peak usage.

Privacy on another level

EPLs are private by design, avoiding public networks entirely. Your data travels directly from point A to point B, with no detours or shared paths. MPLS offers strong security for a shared network, but it doesn’t match the exclusivity of an EPL.

EPL vs. EVPL (Ethernet Virtual Private Line)

While both EPL and EVPL use ethernet access, they’re built for different jobs. EPL creates a dedicated link between two locations, giving you all the bandwidth and none of the competition. EVPL, on the other hand, connects multiple locations using one physical line, splitting bandwidth with virtual segmentation.

Bandwidth where you need it

With EPL, you get the whole pipe to yourself. That makes it ideal for demanding applications like massive file transfers or latency-sensitive operations. EVPL circuits work better for businesses with multiple sites that need different service levels but aren’t pushing the limits on bandwidth.

Simplicity or flexibility

EPL is as straightforward as it gets—just one link doing one job with no surprises. An EVPL circuit offers more flexibility by letting you manage multiple services over a single connection. However, that comes with some trade-offs in performance.

Choosing the right EPL for your business

Selecting the right EPL starts with understanding your unique requirements. Here are a few things to consider.

Bandwidth that grows with you

How much data does your business move in a day? Start there. Think about file sharing, backups, or database syncing—it all adds up.

Now picture the future. Will you be adding video streaming, IoT devices, or data-heavy tasks like analytics? If so, pick an EPL that can handle those demands without breaking a sweat. Scalability matters, so don’t lock yourself into something that can’t keep up.

Why distance matters for latency

Distance is a factor in how fast your data moves. The farther apart your locations are, the higher the chances for slight delays. That might not mean much for emails, but for video calls or trading systems? It’s huge. If real-time speed is non-negotiable, make sure your provider guarantees low latency for the distances you’re covering.

Build a network that’s ready to grow

Today’s network might be perfect, but what about next year? As your business expands, your EPL needs to scale right along with it. Whether it’s higher bandwidth or new locations, make sure your provider offers flexible plans. Ask them if their infrastructure can grow with you—without the headaches of a major overhaul.

Reliability that never wavers

Your business can’t stop, so neither should your connection. Look for providers with solid SLAs (Service Level Agreements) that back up their promises on:

• Uptime
• Latency
• Packet delivery

Ask about failover options, too. A backup plan can mean the difference between a hiccup and a full-blown disaster.

Privacy and extra protection

EPLs are private by design, but some industries need more. Think encryption, firewalls, or advanced monitoring tools. If your data is sensitive, make sure the provider supports these extras or plan to layer them on yourself.

Coverage that goes where you do

Not every provider has the same reach. If you’re connecting locations in multiple regions, check their network footprint. Providers with limited coverage may need third-party help, which can add complexity—or costs—you weren’t expecting.

Budget without the surprises

Price matters, but it’s not just about the sticker cost. Look at the full picture:

• Installation fees
• Upgrade charges
• Long-term scalability

A deal that seems cheap upfront might hit harder later if it’s not built to grow with you.

Support when you need it

When something goes wrong, how fast can you get help? Providers that offer ongoing support, quick response times, and a team that knows your setup are worth their weight in gold. Fast installation is another big win if time is tight.

Fit for your current tech stack

Your network already works a certain way. The right EPL should slide right in, playing nice with your routers, switches, and firewalls. The less tweaking you need to do, the faster you’re up and running.

Partner with Meter Connect 

Choosing an ethernet private line has to be about more than the connection—who’s behind it matters. The right provider doesn’t just deliver the service, they stick with you for the long haul, offering support and flexibility when you need it most.

Meter Connect delivers secure, scalable connections that are designed to grow with your business. But our service doesn't stop at the line. Our approach includes ongoing support, so you’re not left to figure things out on your own.

Meter goes a step further with vertically integrated networks. This service takes routine networking tasks—like maintenance and monitoring—off your IT team’s to-do list. Instead of spending time troubleshooting, your team can focus on the bigger picture.

With Meter, you get more than connectivity. You get a partner who adapts to your needs and keeps your business moving with high-performance solutions tailored just for you.

Request a quote from us today on Meter Connect.