BROOMFIELD, Colo. -- Level 3 Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq:LVLT) today announced that its operating subsidiary is now providing Comcast with underlying backbone support for the rollout of its new voice service offering, Comcast Digital Voice, which enables voice communications using Internet protocol.

As Comcast begins the rapid deployment of Comcast Digital Voice across its national footprint, Level 3’s backbone support will allow the IP-based calls to travel along a privately managed network. This will extend the capability of Comcast’s existing private, advanced broadband network, allowing the IP-based voice service to enjoy quality that may not be available from non-facilities-based VoIP service providers.

“Level 3 continues to be an important partner and a company that we rely on to provide the infrastructure we need to offer reliable and innovative home phone services to our customers,” said Catherine Avgiris, senior vice president, finance and administration of Comcast Voice Services. “Level 3 is widely recognized as a leading enabler of advanced voice services and delivers the broad national coverage and demanding performance standards we require to continue delivering valuable products and services.”

“We’re pleased that Comcast has chosen Level 3 to provide backbone support for their Comcast Digital Voice rollout,” said Sureel Choksi, executive vice president of Services for Level 3. “We believe the market is poised for rapid adoption of innovative voice services and look forward to further supporting Comcast as it adds IP-based phone service to its leading suite of cable, entertainment and communications products and services.”

Level 3 Communications Inc.

Comcast Corp.