LONDON -- Tiscali UK, a subsidiary of Tiscali, the Internet Communication company, is now believed to be the first UK service provider to carry live, commercial voice traffic on a single, consolidated, carrier-grade voice over IP (Internet Protocol) network - with activation of its new service based on Succession softswitches from Nortel Networks (NYSE:NT)(TSX:NT.). Nortel Networks Succession Communication Server 2000 softswitch controls how voice traffic traverses the network, positioning Tiscali UK to drive reduced operational costs and to build a foundation for delivery of new, multimedia IP services. It also cost-effectively extends geographical coverage by enabling use of smaller footprint `media gateways' as `points-of-presence' under centralized control. "Tiscali UK and Nortel Networks are radically changing the way UK phone services can be delivered by eliminating the need for separate voice and data networks," said Stephane Huet, chief operating officer, Tiscali UK. "We chose Nortel Networks voice over IP technology because it is second to none in the industry and was available for immediate deployment." "This agreement will allow us to deliver a market-leading, robust and proven 2.5 gigabit network with 18 points-of-presence in cities across the UK, enabling us to handle growing customer demand for high-value IP and voice services," Huet said. Tiscali SpA Nortel Networks Corp.