Intelsat Launches GlobalConnexSM Network Broadband in Africa


8 March 2004

Intelsat is announcing the launch of GlobalConnexSM (GXS) Network Broadband, a cost-effective, last-mile broadband solution designed to provide enterprises, government agencies, Internet cafes and other closed user groups with reliable, high-speed access to all IP-based applications, including corporate Internet/intranet access, voice over IP, videoconferencing and virtual private networks.

GXS Network Broadband is an addition to Intelsat GlobalConnexSM Broadband, a portfolio of managed, integrated network services for end-to-end delivery of voice, data, video and IP traffic. GXS Network Broadband leverages iDirect technology, which couples high-speed access with measurable QoS for a true enterprise-grade broadband experience. Plus, using the iDirect platform allows GXS Network Broadband channels to accelerate deployment of pan-regional services, since iDirect technology has the unique ability to access multiple satellites from a single, low-cost hub.

As Intelsat continues its global GXS Network Broadband rollout, it is actively seeking in-region channel partners in the Middle East Signing quality distribution channels will be a top priority for the company, as it strives to balance speed-to-market priorities with ensuring matchless end-user customer service.

Internet Solutions, a South Africa-based service provider offering converged communications services, has already signed on with Intelsat to act as its first in-region channel partner. Internet Solutions is currently using Network Broadband to provide internet and MPLS VPN networks to its customers in Africa.

MWeb, one of Africa's leading providers of Internet services, has also signed on as a channel partner to Intelsat for the provision of GlobalConnex Network Broadband services to businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. MWeb plans to use Network Broadband to provide Sub-Saharan Africa 9excluding South Africa) meaningful, benefit-driven solutions to ensure that the Internet adds value to companies' business processes and enhances consumers' ability to communicate, access information and transact.

DETAIL: GXS NETWORK BROADBAND
GXS Network Broadband is specifically designed for multi-location businesses demanding true enterprise grade connectivity at speeds faster than DSL, and is capable of data rates up to 5.25 Mbps and 2.25 Mbps for outbound and inbound traffic, respectively. The service can also operate at higher data rates, if necessary. The new service is fully customizable and able to meet all customer demands for converged voice, data and video applications on one platform, almost anywhere in the world. Additionally, customers can use the service to build multiple, scalable networks which leverage a common hub platform and interface with multiple satellites simultaneously using both C- and Ku-band frequencies. Once deployed, customers have the option of managing the network themselves or having Intelsat manage it for them.

Ramu Potarazu, COO, Intelsat, Ltd. stated, "With GXS Network Broadband, customers can manage networks across multiple satellites and regions, using just one hub, giving them an unparalleled ability to deploy enterprise-grade, fast, connectivity anywhere in the world, with extremely favorable cost. Intelsat is looking for additional channel partners in Africa who are as committed to bringing reliable, flexible and higher functionality communications services to businesses in Africa as Intelsat is."

"This is a smart and low-risk business offering for us and other service providers because the network infrastructure is owned and managed by Intelsat, enabling us to provide a low-cost service to end-users by keeping their equipment costs down," said Jacques Rautenbach, General Manager of Africa Services at Internet Solutions. "GXS Network Broadband delivers business value to our customers by giving them instant high-speed access to all their mission-critical IP applications, no matter where they're located."

"MWEB Africa, which operates in sub Saharan Africa, outside of South Africa, has delivered premium, reliable Internet products and services to its consumers and leading businesses for years; a low-risk offering such as GlobalConnex Network Broadband enables us to enhance the value we can provide to our customers" said Harry Aucamp, General Manager MWeb Africa. "The business model provided by Intelsat for this service allows us to offer it economically while focusing on our competency of subscriber management. Leveraging Intelsat's Network Broadband product will bring yet another reliable and cost-effective alternative to our many business customers."