Level 3 Launches MPLS-based Ethernet WAN Service

Level 3 Communications introduced an enhanced wide area Ethernet service for its U.S. and European networks. The new (3)Flex Ethernet service is based on Level 3's MPLS backbone and provides two classes of service (CoS) that can be managed per virtual connection as applications require. The two classes of service are: Optimized, which is a variable bit rate service that combines a committed information rate with the ability to burst up to twice that rate; and Enhanced, an unspecified bit rate service that allows the customer to burst up to full port speed. (3)Flex Ethernet provides scalability from DS-3 and 100BaseT to multiple Gigabit Ethernet interfaces. Customers can access the service via cross-connects, fiber extensions, metro Ethernet and SONET connections. Customers are billed on a usage basis and pricing is distance insensitive.


Level 3 will market the new service to its service provider customers through its direct sales force, and to enterprise customers primarily through other service providers, system integrators and value-added resellers. The (3)Flex Ethernet service replaces the company's existing (3)Packet service.


Separately, Level 3 named NetCologne, one of the leading regional carriers in Germany, as a new customer for its (3)CrossRoads wholesale IP transit service. In addition, NetCologne has also purchased (3)Link Private Line and (3)Flex Ethernet services from Level 3.
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