News
Issue #2002 - 40 (October 2002)
(Updated Oct. 22, 2002)

INFRASTRUCTURE, PRODUCTS & SERVICES

DSL from Verizon to enable Home Wi-Fi through Linksys Wireless Routers

Source: News story written by Mala Nugehally, based on Linksys Press Release 

Verizon Online has just announced shared DSL services for the monthly price of $39.95. This capability is made possible by Linksys wireless routers, which Verizon supplies as part of this service option. PC World magazine's World Class Award of best overall hardware product for 2002 has made the Linksys's Wireless Router the product of choice. Verizon hopes that through this service, it can get more people hooked on to home networking through shared DSL. Contrary to other cable and DSL providers, Verizon does not charge extra for every computer that is connected to the Linksys router or any additional maintenance fees. Verizon Advanced Services' group president for sales and marketing Andrea Custis said "We encourage customers to get as much value as possible from their DSL, and home networking is a great way to get everyone at home doing more, learning more and having more fun online."

Some of the key features of this service include:

• A promotional offer for consumers ordering Verizon Online DSL before Dec 19, 2002 with two pricing options
• $39.95 a month, every month, with an annual commitment (early termination fee applies) 
• $29.95 a month for the first three months, then $49.95 thereafter with no annual commitment and no termination fee
• A further reduction in price for Customers of Verizon Online DSL service in New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania for $34.95 a month when they sign up for a plan that includes DSL, wireless, long-distance and local and regional toll services from Verizon
• For residential customers, a choice of Linksys EtherFast Broadband Router for $99.99 or the Linksys Wireless Broadband Router for $179.99. Required wireless network cards and wireless USB adapters from Linksys are also available for $89.99 each.

Customers can qualify their telephone lines for DSL service by visiting Verizon Online's Web site at www.verizon.net.

For More Information: http://www.linksys.com  and http://www.verizon.net

MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: It is good to see carriers bundle Wireless LAN offerings. ISPS have been reluctant in the past and putting up artificial barriers for more than one user at the other end of the DSL or cable. Next, we expect Verizon to bless WLAN hotspot market.

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.