SYDNEY -- 23 June 2000 -- Telstra Corporation has teamed with internetworking leader Cisco Systems to create a new inter-capital multimedia network capable of delivering gigabit Ethernet services to corporate customers.
The new service, code-named 'EpiCentre', is due to be launched later this year and will be delivered direct to customers, offering on-site interconnection with their local area networks or even desktop computers.
Telstra Retail Director of Data and IT Solutions, Mr Max Smith said "This is an Ethernet plug in the wall. If you're in a building, our idea is to give you Ethernet to the wall socket."
A single EpiCentre connection will support a variety of options from a "plug and play" Internet Protocol (IP) based service suitable for customers with limited in-house networking expertise through to advanced Virtual Private Network services.
EpiCentre has been built using Cisco equipment from end-to-end and will be marketed jointly by the two companies as a Cisco Powered Network.
"This is another example of Telstra and Cisco working together to deliver next-generation services to customers," said Mr Steve Blunt, Cisco Regional Manager, Telstra Business Unit.
"The Cisco and Telstra sales forces will work together to take this new service to customers," said Mr Smith. "This is both a network and enterprise solution."
Based on common equipment, Cisco Powered Networks feature advanced end-to-end management and quality of service capabilities. For instance, EpiCentre customers will be able to self-configure services at will via the Web. They will also have access to comprehensive reporting functions.
The new network went live on a trial basis in May and is being used to connect Cisco's own information technology operations in Melbourne and Sydney. Subject to success of the trial, a full commercial service should be available in major Australian capital cities later this year.
As a gigabit Ethernet service capable of handling IP and other networking protocols, EpiCentre will be able to carry integrated voice, data and video traffic. It has been designed as a simple, cost effective way for customers to interconnect offices in metropolitan areas and link to Telstra's IP-based services such as Big Pond and hosted applications.
Customers will be able to buy bandwidth on the new network in increments from 10 megabits per second to 1,000Mbps. Pricing is yet to be finalised.
About Telstra Corporation
Telstra is Australia's principal telecommunications company. It offers a broad range of telecommunications and information services and is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX code 'TLS'). See www.telstra.com.au for further information.
About Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco news and information are available at www.cisco.com.
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Cisco, Cisco Systems and 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.
