March 8, 2004

Covad Communications Group Inc., announced full network and systems integration with New Edge Networks, allowing businesses and distributed enterprises to purchase business-class broadband services directly from Covad or its selected partners in 235 MSAs in 44 states.

Under the terms of a previously announced reciprocal service agreement, Covad is selling broadband services in small and midsized cities reachable through New Edge Networks. The agreement expands Covad’s footprint from 35 to 44 states, reaching an additional 5.5 million businesses.

“Combining our networks was a logical and strategic move that not only benefits Covad and New Edge Networks, but also business broadband customers nationwide,” said Charles Hoffman, president and chief executive officer of Covad. “With one of the largest broadband footprints available, businesses, particularly distributed enterprises, can purchase DSL access from a single provider, making Covad the quintessential one-stop-shop for broadband services.”

Hoffman added, “Covad’s and New Edge Networks’ footprint are an ideal fit for each other. Our network primarily covers larger cities while New Edge Networks provides reach where Covad does not have a presence. The combined networks allow both companies to considerably grow their addressable markets.”

“The two networks together can provide business-class DSL services to more cities and companies than ever before, making Covad a smart choice for businesses who want quality broadband services from one provider, ” said Rod Woodward, telecommunications services industry analyst with Frost & Sullivan.

Story @ Phone Plus Mag