WorldCom Launches New High-Speed, Fixed-Wireless Internet Service In Lafayette
LAFAYETTE, La., February 21, 2002 - WorldCom (NASDAQ: WCOM),
the leading global business data and Internet communications provider,
today announced the immediate availability of its high-speed
fixed-wireless MMDS (multi-channel multipoint distribution service)
Internet access service in Lafayette. The new service enables customers
in the Lafayette area to use one of the most innovative, cost-effective
and simple broadband access solutions to connect their business to the
WorldCom global Internet network.
WorldCom's MMDS fixed-wireless service delivers reliable high-speed
Internet access with guaranteed performance up to 30 times faster than
a conventional dial-up modem. Available to customers within 35 miles of
a centrally located transmittal tower, it is a quick and convenient
alternative to other broadband services, delivering an immediate
high-speed access opportunity, especially for customers in areas where
DSL and cable broadband are unavailable.
"WorldCom is committed to delivering what business customers want most
from a broadband service provider: fast installation, guaranteed
performance, reliability, and complete customer service and support,"
said Kerry McKelvey, president and CEO of WorldCom Broadband Solutions.
"WorldCom MMDS customers in Lafayette can expect delivery of their
high-speed broadband Internet access in as little as five to 10 days,
eliminating the wait that other broadband services often require - with
a significantly higher value proposition."
In addition to Lafayette, WorldCom currently offers MMDS in
Bakersfield, Calif.; Baton Rouge, La.; Montgomery, Ala.; Jackson,
Miss.; Hartford, Conn.; Chattanooga and Memphis, Tenn.; Tallahassee and
Pensacola, Fla.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Springfield, Mass.; and Kansas
City, Kan.
Industry research firm Gartner forecasts that by 2005, MMDS market
share will increase to 10 percent - from less than one percent in 2001
- in comparison to other competitive Internet access technologies.
Improving Online Business
As more essential business functions move to the Internet,
high-speed access becomes a significant strategic component for any
business that wants to remain vital and competitive. The experience of
Fussel Enterprises is just one example of how WorldCom MMDS service is
enabling companies to take greater advantage of e-business
opportunities.
"One of my enterprises is an auto dealership, PickYourAuto.com,
which allows local car dealers to sell cars over the Internet.
WorldCom's fixed-wireless service enables us to conduct e-business,"
said Gary Fussel, CEO of Fussel Enterprises in Bakersfield, Calif. "We
upload a lot of pictures, and this high-speed Internet service really
helps us operate more efficiently and in a more cost-effective manner."
WorldCom offers a wide range of high-speed access alternatives
including MMDS fixed wireless, DSL, and fiber-optic technologies to
provide custom-tailored, scalable solutions to meet individual customer
needs.
To get WorldCom Broadband Wireless Access, business subscribers
should call 1-866-WCOM-FAST.
About WorldCom
WorldCom group (NASDAQ: WCOM) is a pre-eminent global communications
provider for the digital generation, operating in more than 65
countries with annualized revenues exceeding $21 billion. With one of
the most expansive, wholly owned IP networks in the world, WorldCom
provides innovative data and Internet services for businesses to
communicate in today's market. For more information, go to
http://www.worldcom.com
.
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