Intelsat is announcing the launch of GlobalConnexSM (GXS) Network Broadband, a cost-effective, last-mile broadband solution designed to provide enterprises, government agencies, Internet cafes and other closed user groups with reliable, high-speed access to all IP-based applications, including corporate Internet/intranet access, voice over IP, video conferencing and virtual private networks.
GXS Network Broadband is an addition to Intelsat GlobalConnexSM Broadband, a portfolio of managed, integrated network services for end-to-end delivery of voice, data, video and IP traffic. GXS Network Broadband leverages iDirect technology, which couples high-speed access with measurable QoS for a true enterprise-grade broadband experience. Plus, using the iDirect platform allows GXS Network Broadband channels to accelerate deployment of pan-regional services, since iDirect technology has the unique ability to access multiple satellites from a single, low-cost hub.
Internet Solutions, a South African-based service provider offering converged communications services, has already signed on with Intelsat to act as its first in-region channel partner. Internet Solutions is currently using Network Broadband to provide Internet and MPLS VPN networks to its customers in Africa.
M-Web, one of Africa`s leading providers of Internet services, has also signed on as a channel partner to Intelsat for the provision of GlobalConnex Network Broadband services to businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. M-Web plans to use Network Broadband to provide Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding SA) meaningful, benefit-driven solutions to ensure the Internet adds value to companies` business processes and enhances consumers` ability to communicate, access information and transact.
As Intelsat continues its global GXS Network Broadband roll-out, signing quality distribution channels like M-Web and Internet Solutions will be a top priority for the company, as it strives to balance speed-to-market priorities with ensuring matchless end-user customer service.
Details of GXS Network Broadband
GXS Network Broadband is specifically designed for multi-location businesses demanding true enterprise grade connectivity at speeds faster than DSL, and is capable of data rates up to 5.25Mbps and 2.25Mbps for outbound and inbound traffic, respectively. The service can also operate at higher data rates, if necessary.
The new service is fully customisable and able to meet all customer demands for converged voice, data and video applications on one platform, almost anywhere in the world. Additionally, customers can use the service to build multiple, scalable networks which leverage a common hub platform and interface with multiple satellites simultaneously using both C- and Ku-band frequencies. Once deployed, customers have the option of managing the network themselves or having Intelsat manage it for them.
Comment from Intelsat
Ramu Potarazu, COO of Intelsat, stated: "With GXS Network Broadband, customers can manage networks across multiple satellites and regions, using just one hub, giving them an unparalleled ability to deploy enterprise-grade, fast, connectivity anywhere in the world, with extremely favourable cost. Intelsat is looking for additional channel partners in Africa who are as committed to bringing reliable, flexible and higher functionality communications services to businesses in Africa as Intelsat is."
Comment from Internet Solutions
"This is a smart and low-risk business offering for us and other service providers because the network infrastructure is owned and managed by Intelsat, enabling us to provide a low-cost service to end-users by keeping their equipment costs down," said Jacques Rautenbach, General Manager of Africa Services at Internet Solutions.
"GXS Network Broadband delivers business value to our customers by giving them instant high-speed access to all their mission-critical IP applications, no matter where they`re located."
Comment from M-Web
"M-Web Africa, which operates in sub-Saharan Africa, outside of SA, has delivered premium, reliable Internet products and services to its consumers and leading businesses for years; a low-risk offering such as GlobalConnex Network Broadband enables us to enhance the value we can provide to our customers," said Harry Aucamp, General Manager, M-Web Africa.
"The business model provided by Intelsat for this service allows us to offer it economically while focusing on our competency of subscriber management. Leveraging Intelsat`s Network Broadband product will bring yet another reliable and cost-effective alternative to our many business customers."
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As a global communications leader with 40 years of experience, Intelsat helps service providers, broadcasters, corporations and governments deliver information and entertainment anywhere in the world, instantly, securely and reliably. Intelsat`s global reach and expanding solutions portfolio enable customers to enhance their communications networks, venture into new markets and grow their businesses with confidence. For more information, visit www.intelsat.com.
Internet Solutions
Internet Solutions (IS) has transformed its business model and become a leading converged communications service provider.
The business was founded on the principle of developing a robust infrastructure in order for corporates to conduct e-business. Over the past decade IS has established itself as a leader in this space, attracting over 80% of SA`s top businesses as clients.
During its 10-year life span, IS has evolved and grown its service offerings. Today, the company is the leading hosting service provider and security service provider in SA, as well as having significant market share in the virtual private network and application service provider space.
Internet Solutions has earned an impressive collection of accolades, including eight First National Bank "Most Admired" awards, two Financial Mail Best Company to Work For awards, a place in the Top Unlisted Company Awards and first place in the ISP category for ComputerWeek Strategist`s Best of Breed IT Awards, 2004.
The company partners with major players such as Cisco, Microsoft, Oracle, BT and AT&T, and in 2002 was certified as a Cisco Managed Security Service Provider, the first and only company outside of the US to be awarded this accolade. For more information, visit www.is.co.za.
M-Web
M-Web, one of Africa`s leading providers of Internet services, has pioneered developments in the local industry since its launch in 1997. As a result of its ongoing leadership position in the industry for six years, M-Web understands that the Internet is a tool. The company therefore draws on its experience and expertise to develop meaningful, benefit-driven solutions to ensure the Internet adds value to companies` business processes and enhances consumers` ability to communicate, access information and transact.
Since its inception, M-Web has delivered premium, reliable Internet products and services to Africa`s consumers and leading businesses. In addition to providing a professional, quality service, M-Web focuses on making the Internet easy for its customers, which include approximately 250 000 residential Internet and small business members and blue-chip corporate clients.
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