[May 30] Communications technology supplier Nokia
and fiber-optic network operator KPNQwest
have signed an agreement that will create the largest Digital Subscriber
Line (DSL)
footprint in Europe.
KPNQwest will launch commercial DSL services in Germany in
the third quarter of 2000, and says it will roll them out to other European
countries “as and when deregulation allows.” Access to the so-called
“last mile” in telecom networks is essential for DSL providers.
For the project, Nokia is supplying technology to enable services such
as remote data access, streaming media for webcasts, hosted applications
and interactive video.
“We strongly believe this partnership will rewrite the rules of broadband
access in Europe and be a key step in the Internet revolution,” said
Peter Kuhne, senior vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa,
Nokia Networks.
Nokia’s end-to-end solution includes Broadband IP access system
components, comprehensive network management, and services such
as system integration, emergency support, on-site assistance,
operator training and first and second line maintenance.
KPNQwest is currently deploying a 19,000 kilometer fiber-optic
network connecting 46 cities in Europe. It supplies a full
range of data-centric IP-based services, making it one of
the largest business ISPs in Europe.
In the rush to build “cybercenters” — such companies as
Colt and Intel and many computer manufacturers are currently
building them in Europe — KPNQwest claims a head start. It
already has twelve, and plans to build another eighteen
10,000 square meter facilities to support its operations
in 15 European countries.