PHILADELPHIA, PA -- Nov. 29, 1999 -- Comcast Commercial Online Communications, Inc. (CCOC), today announced that it is extending its strategic relationship with Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO), the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, by becoming the first certified Cisco Powered Network IP-based cable operator. Comcast will use its end-to-end, Cisco-enabled cable infrastructure to offer high-speed Internet services to small businesses, schools and telecommuters in New Jersey. Comcast is using its Cisco Powered Network to provide a complete suite of advanced IP services to the business-user. The services will range from remote access to the corporate Intranet over a secure VPN to secure Internet connectivity for small and medium LANs. End-users will also be able to choose among service packages with varying access speeds and bandwidth guarantees. The resulting service offerings allow Comcast to make cable a compelling alternative access technology for the multi-billion dollar business-user Internet access market.
"Providing HFC-based IP services to business customers represents a tremendous market opportunity for Comcast," said Matt Fanning, vice president of Comcast Commercial Online. "We've become a Cisco Powered Network because we see Cisco as one of our most strategic partners in realizing this opportunity. Their products and solutions help us provide a compelling case for business customers to use HFC-based IP services. Delivering these broadband IP services to business customers over a Cisco Powered Network infrastructure moves us yet another step closer to our vision of becoming a world-class broadband telecommunications service provider."
With Cisco Powered Network-certified services, Comcast's business customers know they will receive industry-leading network services that are easily customized and compatible with existing infrastructures. The superior end-to-end solution benefits business customers by providing:
- Improved interoperability
- Easier adoption of new technologies and services
- Firewall security
- Enhanced network availability, performance and reliability
Comcast's Cisco Powered Network is based on the award-winning Cisco uBR924 cable access router and its uBR7246 Universal Broadband Router Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS). Both products are based on the industry standard Data-Over-Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS), and the industry leading Cisco IOS. software.
"Cisco is working with Comcast to aggressively roll out new business services to meet customer demands and advance the cable networking market," said Larry Lang, vice president of marketing for Cisco's Service Provider Line of Business. "As the first IP-based cable operator to be certified in the Cisco Powered Network program, Comcast is demonstrating its vision of becoming a world-class telecommunications provider through the delivery of cost-effective broadband solutions."
Comcast's participation in the Cisco Powered Network program demonstrates its ability to provide industry-leading technology solutions and services that are based predominantly on Cisco solutions. As a benefit of the program, Comcast will be able to participate in joint marketing, technology sharing and selling activities with Cisco. Together, Comcast and Cisco are helping to create a New World communications infrastructure that supports high-value integrated communications services. This New World network will enable both individuals and business communities to gain the benefits of these leading-edge technologies and services.
About Comcast Commercial Online
Comcast Commercial Online Communications, Inc. offers solutions that enhance the ability of large organizations to deliver services to their customers and employees by extending the corporate organization beyond traditional boundaries. These services allow telecommuting from the home with the same tools and access available to associates when in the office. This increases telecommuter productivity and dramatically expands the recruitment pool of desired personnel.
For smaller organizations Comcast Commercial Online delivers Internet speeds and services formerly available only to the largest enterprises. Utilizing an enhanced broadband network infrastructure augmented by our hybrid fiber coaxial capabilities and innovative switching and routing capabilities, any size organization can look like a Fortune 100 company to the world. at http://www.comcastwork.com.
Comcast Corporation is principally engaged in the development, management and operation of broadband cable networks and in the provision of content through principal ownership of QVC, Comcast-Spectacor and Comcast SportsNet, a controlling interest in E! Entertainment Television and through other programming investments.
Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is theworldwide leader in networking for the Internet.Cisco, Cisco IOS, Cisco Systems, the Cisco Systems logo are registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners.
