MADRID, Spain, September 21, 2000 - Telefonica Data, the Telefonica Group subsidiary that provides global telecommunications services to companies, has reached an agreement with Cisco Systems to incorporate the latest IP routing technology into its IP (Internet Protocol) network.
Cisco Systems' IP routing technology is based on Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology and allows users to obtain highest Internet access speeds due to its larger switching capacity.
This initiative will benefit companies, specifically users of broadband technology (ADSL) who increasingly demand multimedia content and real-time information over the Internet. The security and reliability of the network will also be increased due to the more advanced routing techniques and differentiated service quality opportunities.
This initiative, which will entail a total investment of 11.5 million dollars, will be implemented in Spain. This agreement will later be extended to other markets where Telefonica Data operates. Moreover, this expansion by Telefonica Data represents a new step in the development of carriers providing new value-added IP services for businesses.
Guillermo Fernandez-Vidal, CEO of Telefonica Data, said the incorporation of Cisco Systems MPLS technology in the Telefonica Data IP network, "allows for an expansion of network capacity in order to meet our clients4 new needs and offers a broader range of value- added IP services."
Jorge Botifoll, General Manager of Cisco Systems Spain said, "the use and implementation of the new technologies by Telefonica Data creates a highly reliable and scalable IP network infrastructure that is able to support VPNs and other IP services based on MPLS technology and real-time IP services. By building its network with Cisco4s solutions, Telefonica Data is demonstrating its commitment to provide its customers with the most robust and technologically advanced IP services available."
To carry out this initiative, Telefonica Data will use Cisco's 12016 Internet routers with Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) features in Cisco IOS.. The most advanced routing techniques and differential service qualities will also create increased network security and reliability for Telefonica.
About Telefsnica Data
Telefonica Data, subsidiary of the Telefonica Group, is the leader in the offer of telecommunications global services for companies. At present, the company is expanding internationally, developing activities in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Venezuela, Uruguay and Peru, Central America and the United States. Telefonica is also present in Austria, Italy and Germany. For more information see http://www.telefonica-data.com.
About Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. at www.cisco.com.
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