KPNQwest and Qwest Announce Strategic Partnership for MSN Internet Access

Strategic Insights -

KPNQwest, the pan-European provider of data-centric services, and Qwest Communications International Inc., a leader in broadband Internet-based communications, have sealed a multi-year agreement to provide local dial-up internet access to MSN subscribers via Qwest's nation-wide IP network. Separately, Qwest is supplying high-speed dedicated internet access links to Microsoft Internet data centers in the US and Europe.

Key Takeaways:

  • KPNQwest and Qwest have signed a multi-year, multimillion-dollar agreement to provide local dial-up internet access to MSN subscribers via Qwest's leading nation-wide IP network.
  • Qwest will supply high-speed dedicated internet access links to Microsoft Internet data centers in the US and Europe, including London through KPNQwest's pan-European IP network.
  • The agreement will increase the capacity of MSN Internet Access and expand its ability to deliver the service to a rapidly growing user base.
  • Qwest will have more than 1 million dial ports by the end of this year and will provide MSN with 24x7 operational management services for the network and its equipment.
  • KPNQwest's CEO, Jack McMaster, stated that the agreement marks a major step in the strategic relationship with Microsoft, enabling leading-edge dial services for businesses and consumers.
  • Microsoft's Vice President for MSN Internet Access, Ted Kummert, stated that the company is happy to expand its existing dial-up services with Qwest's network.

Statistics:

  • Qwest will have more than 1 million dial ports by the end of this year.
  • Qwest's IP network and KPNQwest's pan-European IP network provide reliable, secure internet connections for MSN subscribers and any internet users accessing MSN and Microsoft-owned web content.
  • The Qwest Macro Capacity Fiber Network spans more than 25,500 miles in North America.
  • KPNQwest is building a high-capacity European fiber optic, Internet-based network that will span 11,800 miles when it is completed in 2001.
  • KPNQwest has twelve CyberCenters(tm) and has announced plans to build a further eighteen 10,000m2 CyberCenters across Europe.

Sources:

  • M2 PressWIRE - 17 May 2000 - KPNQWEST: KPNQwest & Qwest announce multimillion dollar agreement to provide Internet access for MSN
  • Qwest Communications International Inc. - www.qwest.com
  • KPNQwest - www.kpnqwest.com
  • M2 Communications Ltd.