AUSTIN, Texas - April 18, 2000 - Vectris Communications, a data networking solutions provider, announced today that it has deployed a multi-services, broadband network based on equipment from Cisco Systems, the worldwide leader in data networking. Through its network, Vectris will deliver high-speed Internet and managed data and voice solutions over DSL in secondary markets throughout the central and southwestern United States. In addition, Vectris has been designated as a Cisco Powered Network and secured $60M in equipment financing from Cisco Capital.

Vectris partners with ISPs, CLECs, VARs and other service providers to provide a broad suite of tailored data solutions. The Cisco DSL and IP+ATM core-switching technologies enable Vectris and its distribution partners to offer high quality DSL-based services. This will result in increased revenue opportunities, long-term profitability and a quality reputation for Vectris and its distribution partners.

"With our Cisco Powered Network, Vectris customers are assured of end-to-end quality and reliability for high-performance Internet and data networking. The Cisco-Vectris alliance promotes the rapid deployment and marketing of DSL-based services," said Carey Balzer, President and CEO of Vectris. "We will provide turnkey installation of broadband services, enabling our customers to quickly be more productive, competitive and profitable."

The Vectris network is based on Cisco smart DSL products including: Cisco 600 series DSLcustomer premise equipment, Cisco 6100 family of IP DSL switches, and Cisco MGX 8850 and Cisco BPX 8620 IP+ATM core switches. The deployment offers a complete suite of easy-to-implement, high quality data solutions to end-users.

"We are pleased that Vectris selected Cisco for its broadband service network," said Larry Lang, Cisco Vice President of Service Provider Marketing. "Our DSL and IP+ATM products are perrfectly matched to deliver end-to-end solutions that enable Vectris to rapidly bring New World services to market through a highly scalable, reliable, and flexible network. By bringing together the key elements of DSL access, ATM aggregation, and MPLS, Vectris is positioned to quickly adapt to the rapid pace of change in this fast-growing market."

As a Cisco Powered Network, Vectris is able to provide industry-leading technology andend-to-end solutions. Vectris will also benefit from participation in joint marketing, technology sharing and cooperative selling activities with Cisco and its distribution partners. Both companies are helping to create a highly reliable communications infrastructure that supports high-value integrated communications services.