Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Kenya Data Networks Deploys Strix's Wireless Mesh

Kenya Data Networks (KDN), East Africa's largest public data network operator, is deploying Strix Systems' Access/One Network Outdoor Wireless Systems (OWS) and Indoor Wireless Systems (IWS) to launch a new "Butterfly" Wi-Fi service. Initially available in the cities of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret -- which have a combined population of over 4 million -- Butterfly will ultimately provide seamless connectivity throughout Kenya.



KDN will leverage Strix's multi-radio, multi-channel, multi-RF architecture. A planned WiMAX module, which will be a simple plug-in upgrade to existing nodes, will enable KDN to provide additional WiMAX backhaul and high-speed services. In addition, the multi-radio design offers seamless high-performance broadband coverage in the areas where the Strix nodes are deployed, allowing users to move around without losing connectivity.



The Strix architecture reduces operating expenses for KDN's clients by enabling the operator to deploy a network within the free Wi-Fi spectrum. As a result, end users do not have to pay frequency fees, which are quite high in Kenya, and their cost of entry is cheaper. The Strix solution enables KDN to expand its subscriber base and provide high-quality broadband service to Butterfly customers throughout Kenya.

http://www.strixsystems.com