CenturyLink targets Omaha for 1-Gbps FTTP network pilot

CenturyLink, Inc. (NYSE: CTL) will jump into the 1-Gbps broadband access camp. The Tier 1 service provider says it plans to connect 48,000 homes and businesses in Omaha, NE, as part of a fiber to the premises (FTTP) pilot that will see 1-Gbps connections available to the entire footprint by this October.

The pilot will make CenturyLink the first U.S. Tier 1 carrier to offer 1-Gbps commercial fiber-optic broadband services. The service provider expects to begin rolling out the symmetrical 1-Gbps service next week. CenturyLink will then evaluate the results before deciding whether to expand the service offering to more customers. The company says that factors that will influence its decision include the level of community support, the competitive landscape, and the ability to earn what it considers a reasonable return on its investment.

"CenturyLink is pleased to offer its Omaha customers ultra-fast broadband speeds up to 1 Gbps to help keep pace with growing broadband demands," said Karen Puckett, CenturyLink chief operating officer. "This demonstrates our commitment to deliver communications solutions that provide our customers with the technology they need to enhance their quality of life, now and into the future."

Omaha’s 1-Gbps customers also will have a direct connection to CenturyLink’s newly enhanced 100-Gbps global network (see "CenturyLink deploys 100 Gbps via multiple vendors,""CenturyLink is Infinera's Tier 1 DTN-X customer," and "CenturyLink targets Ciena platforms for metro 100G requirements"), the company says.

For more information on FTTx equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.