New Edge Networks and Microsoft announced that they have reached an agreement designed to accelerate the national deployment of MSN HighSpeed consumer broadband DSL service.
Under the terms of the agreement, Vancouver, Washington-based New Edge Networks will serve as DSL service provider in small cities, towns and semi-rural areas served by the company.
The service will be available beginning early next year through MSN’s retail channels as well as online.
“This alliance brings broadband DSL deeper into the consumer mainstream and helps bridge the digital divide in underserved communities where broadband demand is as strong as it is in the major cities,” says Dan Moffat, president, CEO and co-founder of New Edge Networks. “For New Edge Networks, the alliance with MSN validates the value of our national broadband DSL network, coverage and reach into small cities around the country.”
Residential DSL lines provide download speeds up to 25 times faster than traditional phone lines, providing the necessary bandwidth for many of today’s Internet applications. In addition, DSL lines allow simultaneous voice and data transmission over the same line, eliminating the need for a separate computer line.
“We are committed to bringing MSN HighSpeed to every neighborhood in the United States and working closely with New Edge Networks allows us to deliver on that promise,” says Ted Kummert, Vice President of MSN Internet Access. “Now we will be able to offer an easy and affordable way for even more consumers to take advantage of the best of the Web by optimizing their connection with MSN HighSpeed.”