T3 or DS3?

Written by: Dennis Green - Feb 8, 2010

In the context of telecommunications, the terms T3 and DS3 are often used synonymously to describe a 45 mbps (megabits per second) circuit. A T3/DS3 is the equivalent of 28 T1s. People who are more technically inclined will often refer to DS3 when they are talking about the configuration of the circuit, and T3 if they are referring to the physical connection which carries the circuit. Most people, however, use both terms interchangeably. T3/DS3 is used for carrying both voice (in the form of data) and data traffic. T3/DS3 is commonly used for larger point-to-point circuits, MPLS (multiprotocol label switching), Virtual Private Networks (VPN), internet traffic, call centers, and videoconferencing. To check availability or pricing for any T3 related services, please use the pricing tool located at the top of this page. It is easy to use, free, and without obligation. (Click here to return to top of page)