186k selects Nortel Networks for $100m next-generation optical network

The telecommunications subsidiary of Lattice Group, 186k has selected Nortel Networks to design and build an Internet Protocol (IP) optical backbone network in the UK under a contract estimated to be worth US$100 million over two years.

Expected to be in service by the end of this year, the new network - based on market-leading Nortel Networks 10 gigabit-per-second DWDM (dense-wavelength division multiplexing) optical solutions - will position 186k to deliver a range of fast, scalable and reliable IP solutions to its customers throughout the UK. 186k provides businesses with sophisticated hosting, development, e-commerce and telecom solutions.

"Nortel Networks is an industry leader in optical solutions, and the natural choice as a strategic supplier for our new network," said Lawrie Haynes, chief executive officer, 186k. "We have been working closely with Nortel Networks to realise time to market advantage, and have been impressed by their superior technical skills and responsiveness."

"Nortel Networks momentum in the next generation service provider market in Europe continues," said Malcolm Bayes, VP of Nortel Networks sub-Saharan Africa, and Country Manager of Nortel Networks South Africa. "The company continues to break new ground, and with 186k we will demonstrate our ability to implement a full network from planning and design to implementation in the EMEA region."

Nortel Networks is building market share in Europe as growing use of the Internet drives demand for faster, wider, smarter optical networks. Nortel Networks Optical Internet solutions offer the speed, performance and reliability required to cope with massive increases in Internet traffic, which continues to grow at double- and triple-digit rates worldwide. A recent study by RHK of the European optical networking market indicates that Nortel Networks is the leader in WDM. The study says that Nortel Networks share in the European WDM segment has increased from 23 percent in 1999 to 37 percent at year-end 2000.

Nortel Networks Optical Internet solutions for 186k will include Nortel Networks OPTera Long Haul 1600 Optical Line System and Nortel Networks OPTera Connect DX optical switch, which will provide service to 10 gigabits per second per wavelength.

Other Nortel Networks solutions to be provided to 186k will include Nortel Networks Passport PVG voice gateway, Nortel Networks Preside network and services management, Nortel Networks CVX 1800 multiservice access switch and Nortel Networks Succession Communications Server 2000 softswitch, which will provide full IP functionality for data and voice traffic. Nortel Networks will also provide a range of Global Professional Services to 186k, including network design, planning and integration.