Network service provider LMKI Inc.
Thursday aligned with New Edge
Networks Inc. to deliver broadband Internet services to small
businesses in U.S. semi-rural markets.
The companies forged the pact in order to leverage LMKI’s broadband
integration capabilities with New Edge Networks’ digital subscriber line
access to businesses in underserved markets.
Steve Godsey, New Edge Networks general manager, said LMKI was the perfect
partner to extend its DSL services.
“LMKI has a very promising business case and is a solid example of new
broadband integrators whose customers can benefit from our network’s
bandwidth, speed and performance,” Godsey said. “LMKI will help New Edge
reach additional customers.”
Bryan Turbow, LMKI president and chief technology officer, said the deal
would equally expands its service area.
“Our agreement with New Edge broadens LMKI’s footprint, and accelerates the
adoption of our virtual private network services nationwide,” Turbow, said.
“New Edge’s national presence will expose us to a larger market share of
businesses that need our services.”
New Edge Networks began providing high-speed Internet access last December
and currently serves up DSL access from more than 200 locations nationwide.
The broadband service provider is set to expand its brand of high-speed
services to more than 300 locations before the year is through and has
plants to install equipment in more than 750 locations in all 50 states by
early next year.
In related news, New Edge Networks settled its squabble with U S WEST Wednesday.
New Edge Networks won concessions from U S WEST that will
help the company accelerate introduction of broadband services in 14
western states.
In exchange for these concessions, New Edge Networks has withdrawn a
complaint charging anti-competitive practices against U S WEST.
The settlement requires U S WEST to reduce the timetable it takes to
complete collocation of New Edge Network’s equipment from 45 to 30 days. U
S WEST must waive one month’s recurring fees if it misses the 30-day deadline.
Additionally, U S WEST must also bulk test and pre-qualify telephone lines
in markets identified by New Edge Networks to determine whether they are
conditioned and capable of carrying DSL service. U S WEST will waive line
conditioning charges if its tests and pre-qualifications fail to identify
the need for line conditioning.
Susan McAdams, New Edge Networks vice president of external affairs, said
the real winner in the dispute is the consumer.
“Broadband demand is phenomenal and accelerating,” McAdams said. “DSL is
single best way to get it to customers in a timely manner.”
“Regional Bell Operating Centers had problems with their internal systems
and outside plant records,” McAdams added. “These problems continue to
stand in the way of broadband deployment. Through this agreement customers
in underserved cities will have faster access and choices for broadband
services.”
