WorldCom
Launching Satellite Broadband Service
By Roy Mark
WorldCom plans to connect its global IP network to
Hughes Network Systems
satellites to provide satellite broadband service for business
customers throughout the
United
States. The deal allows WorldCom to deliver two-way satellite
broadband service in metropolitan, suburban and even the most
remote geographic areas, where fast Internet connections, like
DSL, are limited or unavailable. Financial terms of the deal
were not disclosed.
Known as WorldCom Internet VSAT (very small aperture
terminal), WorldCom is the first major data services provider to
offer satellite broadband service. Within the next two years,
DirecTV, a subsidiary of Hughes Electronics, plans to offer
satellite broadband as part of its pay TV package.
Similar to a satellite TV system, WorldCom's Internet VSAT
uses small, oval satellite dishes to send and receive
information. With downstream information rates of up to 1 Mbps,
WorldCom Internet VSAT allows remote users to utilize advanced
business applications such as multi-casting, data-casting and
interactive services, with remote access to IP VPNs, intranets
and extranets.
Priced comparably to DSL connections, WorldCom Internet VSAT is an "always on"' service that does not require the
installation of landline connections. The installation and
performance of this solution is assured with service level
agreement (SLA)
guarantees.
