WASHINGTON and ZURICH -- Equant (NYSE: ENT) (Euronext Paris: EQU), a recognized industry leader in global IP and data services for multinational businesses, has completed the first phase of implementation for a global IP VPN solution and corporate mail system for Landis+Gyr, a leading supplier of power measuring systems based in Zug, Switzerland.

Equant's global IP VPN solution with an integrated messaging platform based on Microsoft Exchange and Secure Gateways connect Landis+Gyr subsidiaries in 26 countries. The multi-year contract with Equant includes setting up and operating an IP VPN based on MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology and will provide Landis+Gyr with convergence of the network infrastructure.

Landis+Gyr, previously called Siemens Metering, was taken over from the Siemens Group in 2002. Landis+Gyr had to separate its entire IT infrastructure and network platform from Siemens. As a result, it conducted an evaluation to find a convergent solution that could be easily expanded and upgraded at any time. During the process, Equant suggested a customized IP VPN solution that included a complete messaging environment with Internet gateways, secure authentication, encryption and firewalls. Equant's implementation-oriented approach, which includes consulting and professional services, also contributed significantly to its selection by Landis+Gyr.

Migrating from the legacy Frame Relay network to Equant IP VPN was carried out under the strict security regulations of Siemens and was completed in only two months.

"Equant was the firm which best fulfilled the requirements of this project," said Konrad Braun, chief information officer of Landis+Gyr. "The extensive service portfolio and the consultation in advance of the project execution were the most important factors for us to choose this provider. Since then, all 26 locations were decentralized and successfully migrated within eight weeks. Today, Equant has partner status with us."

"Equant is very pleased to be viewed as a partner by Landis+Gyr," said Detlef Spang, Equant's senior vice president of Sales and Marketing, Western Europe. "By using a consultative approach, we are able to help customers make a smooth transition to a global IP VPN. The successful implementation for Landis+Gyr is another example of how Equant can help customers achieve their business objectives."

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