16k, the telecommunications subsidiary of Lattice Group, has selected Nortel Networks (NYSE:NT) (TSE:NT.) to design and build an Internet Protocol (IP) optical backbone network in the UK under a contract estimated to be worth $100 million over two years.
Expected to be in service by the end of this year, the new network, based on market-leading Nortel Networks 10 gigabit-per-second DWDM (dense-wavelength division multiplexing) optical solutions, will position 16k to deliver a range of fast, scalable and reliable IP solutions to its customers throughout the UK. 16k provides businesses with sophisticated hosting, development, e-commerce and telecom solutions.
Nortel Networks is building market share in Europe as growing use of the Internet drives demand for faster, wider, smarter optical networks. Nortel Networks Optical Internet solutions offer the speed, performance and reliability required to cope with massive increases in Internet traffic, which continues to grow at double- and triple-digit rates worldwide.
Nortel Networks Optical Internet solutions for 16k will include Nortel Networks OPTera Long Haul 1600 Optical Line System and Nortel Networks OPTera Connect DX optical switch, which will provide service to 10 gigabits per second per wavelength.
Other Nortel Networks solutions to be provided to 16k will include Nortel Networks Passport PVG voice gateway, Nortel Networks Preside network and services management, Nortel Networks CVX 100 multiservice access switch and Nortel Networks Succession Communications Server 2000 softswitch, which will provide full IP functionality for data and voice traffic. Nortel Networks will also provide a range of Global Professional Services to 16k, including network design, planning and integration.