CLEAR and Compaq Partner to Beta Test System

CLEAR and Compaq Partner to Beta Test New Business Networking Service

CLEAR Communications and Compaq New Zealand have teamed up to test CLEAR's groundbreaking IP-based Wide Area Network (WAN) service.

A beta test programme has begun and it is expected to conclude in mid-October. CLEAR has given the service a name, IP Express, and says it is on track for launch by the end of October.

IP Express wil use leading-edge technology to provide broadband access with the facility for customers to easily migrate to high-speed networking. Customers will connect to the service using ethernet and it will initially be available in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Jane Hindle, CLEAR's Senior Manager Data Transport Services, says IP Express will be the first service of its type in New Zealand, and among the first in the world.

"This type of broadband access has not previously been deployed on a large scale in New Zealand," she says. "It is also significant for CLEAR because it is another major step towards becoming New Zealand's number one on-line service provider to business.

"IP Express will revolutionise business networking by using local area network (LAN) technology to deliver a WAN service."

Ms Hindle says although CLEAR anticipates a high demand for this new technology, its deployment strategy will focus on delivering quality rather than quantity.

The trial with Compaq New Zealand is being carried out over a number of different locations nationwide.

Compaq New Zealand's Director of Services Kimbal Riley says: "The network will use the latest communication technologies and allow very high speed and multimedia support, based on an ATM core. With the potential to scale, IP Express offers Compaq the opportunity to take full advantage of its information exchange assets and capabilities, through more effective working tools and efficiency.

"Compaq Services has been involved in the supply and support of CLEAR's Cisco/Stratacom-based ATM core since its inception and is pleased to take advantage of the enhanced services this technology offers to the New Zealand business community."

The beta test programme will also test IP Express' capability to provide telehosting facilities for ISPs and IT companies who provide application services and support for their customers.

"This is very significant," says Ms Hindle. "Until now these companies have not been able to offer telehosting without risking decreased network performance for their customers. Now they will be able to put servers where they want, enabling their customers to outsource their IT requirements without risking network performance. It will provide a new level of telehosting service in New Zealand."

ENDS

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