XO Launches ServicesXO Launches Services

SEATTLE -- Businesses in the Seattle metropolitan area now have a new option for high-speed Internet access and private data networking services thanks to the roll out of broadband wireless technology from XO Communications and Nextlink Wireless, Inc., an affiliated XO company and the nation's largest holder of Local Multipoint Distribution System (LMDS) spectrum with licenses in 75 metropolitan markets.

With broadband wireless technology, businesses at locations that lack fiber connections or are only served by one local incumbent service provider can receive high-speed Internet access and private data networking services directly from XO. XO can deliver high speed network services directly to businesses over wireless links at speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 155 Mbps (OC- 3) to support a wide range of communications services. These services include high-speed dedicated Internet access, metro Ethernet, voice over IP (VoIP), wide area networks in campus or business park settings and network redundancy. From wireless hubs deployed in the Seattle metropolitan area, XO can provide these services to qualified line-of-sight locations within a range of up to 11 miles.

Broadband wireless technology allows XO Communications to expand its network coverage in Seattle beyond its metro fiber network and fill a critical gap for businesses that require higher-speed network speeds but are constrained by the bandwidth limitations of current "last-mile" copper-based access connections or due to a lack of direct access to fiber. Today, last- mile copper connections often cannot scale above T-1 (1.5 Mbps) speeds to meet businesses' higher-bandwidth demands, while direct fiber access is available in less than 20 percent of buildings in the United States.

"XO's deployment of broadband wireless technology opens the door to a wider world of options for high-speed network access for businesses that are trapped because they are only served by copper or one local telecom provider," said Paul Merritt, general manager of the Seattle market for XO Communications. "This expansion of our network is part of our continuing focus to provide businesses with innovative high-speed network services and alternatives in the wake of a consolidating telecommunications industry."

XO Communications Inc.