TAMPA, FLA. - Intermedia Communications is introducing a nationwide DSL service that includes options for firewalls, VPNs and Web hosting, and also makes it easier and quicker for companies to network over the Internet.
Called Intermedia DSL, the service can link far-flung branch offices with each other as well as headquarters - sites that might otherwise be restricted to using dial-up Internet access because faster options cost too much.
Customers can buy the service at symmetrical upload and download speeds ranging from 128K bit/sec to 1.5M bit/sec. Customers can also buy asymmetric DSL (ADSL) with a maximum download speed of 8.1M bit/sec. Upload speed for ADSL is 1.5M bit/sec, the company says.
Companies with dispersed branches and telecommuters could use the service to avoid dealing with the individual regional Bell operating companies that set up DSL lines. They also avoid distributing the hardware and software needed to network the DSL-connected sites by having Intermedia take care of that for them.
The average time between ordering and getting the service turned up is 22 days, the firm says.
Intermedia is expanding its area of DSL coverage from about a dozen cities to 1,300 through an arrangement with Rhythms NetConnections, a nationwide DSL provider. This is happening while other national DSL efforts are stumbling. Verizon just canceled its planned takeover of DSL provider NorthPoint Communications. Jato Communications canceled its national plans, as did Comdisco with its DSL arm called Prism.
Other providers such as DSL Networks and SBC Communications offer DSL services nationwide.
Customers should note that WorldCom is in the process of buying Intermedia for its ISP and Web-hosting arm, Digex, and it is unclear what WorldCom's plans are for the rest of the company.
Intermedia manages its DSL service and installs a variety of customer-site equipment depending on customer needs. Hardware options include gear from Cisco, Netopia and WatchGuard Technologies, as well as software from Axent and Check Point.
For example, a customer that already has a central site connected to the Internet via a T-1 line and a Cisco router might also opt for Cisco gear in its remote offices. Another customer that wants its Internet connection backed up if the DSL lines fail could choose a Netopia router that automatically dials the Internet via a 56K bit/sec modem on a separate phone line if the DSL connection breaks.
Basic service that includes Internet access and e-mail costs $139 per month for a 128K bit/sec connection and climbs to $999 per month for an 8.1M bit/sec connection. Dial backup costs $15 per month more and requires a separate phone line.
Intermedia offers Web hosting starting at $20 per month for 20M bytes.
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