Singapore, 13 July 2000 -- StarHub, Singapore’s new info-communications provider, will build Singapore’s first intelligent new-generation broadband IP network with end-to-end equipment from Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Scheduled for launch by fourth-quarter 2000, this new IP-network, marketed as StarHub IP.Q - The Intelligent Broadband IP Network, is to be made available in 150 selected commercial buildings in Singapore by end of 2001.
StarHub IP.Q will be able to prioritise and deliver mission critical applications at guaranteed bandwidths and speeds of up to 100 times faster than conventional networks. It will also integrate Internet access, high-speed data communications, voice, video, access to applications and content-on-demand into a single fully secure network delivered via a single Ethernet connection.
This new product is expected to significantly reduce the investment costs and complexities faced by companies in managing different networks, services and applications for their business communication needs. In addition, StarHub IP.Q will offer customers more flexibility in bandwidth usage, more flexible to customer enabling them to add more bandwidth when needed.
Using the latest standard in IP-technology - Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) - the network will be highly secure and application- and content-aware, intelligently identifying and allocating the necessary bandwidth depending on the type of application. This translates into better service to the company’s internal ‘clients’ as well as more efficient bandwidth consumption and cost control.
"Once again, StarHub has taken the initiative to bring the benefits of new technology to Singapore. We believe this project continues the fulfillment of our promise to deliver cutting-edge products and services which will help our customers to improve their bottom line," said Mr Peter Kaliaropoulos, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations for StarHub at the MOU signing ceremony with Cisco Systems this morning.
He added, "Bandwidth restrictions are becoming a real problem for customers because of growing use of the Internet and increased usage of online applications. StarHub IP.Q solves this problem and saves a company money with a uniquely flexible service. Businesses can now look forward to a smarter, simpler and more flexible solution to meet their on-line communication and application needs. StarHub IP.Q will give businesses instant access to a range of applications and services and interconnect them with the Internet and with their other office locations, all at high speed, all via a single IP-connection."
Cisco Systems, the developer of MPLS technology, has been selected as the technology and solution provider by StarHub to build this network. Cisco will provide technical expertise and delivery of critical network-backbone equipment for this project.
"With the continuing explosion of data traffic in the Internet, corporate intranets, and extranets, the foundation for the new world has indisputably become IP internetworking. More than any other company, Cisco Systems has been responsible for creating, enhancing, and advancing the frontiers of IP internetworking technology. The combination of StarHub’s innovative approach together with Cisco’s leading IP technology, allows businesses in Singapore to enjoy "intelligent" IP-based services. Services that will make a difference in the Internet Economy," said Mr Gary Jackson, Vice President, Asia Operations, Cisco Systems.
In addition, StarHub and Cisco also announced today the signing of a joint-marketing agreement, combining the marketing- and sales-strengths of both companies to provide the StarHub IP.Q network service to businesses in Singapore. This will allow businesses in Singapore to obtain StarHub IP.Q services together with Cisco equipment from Cisco-certified resellers.
This project is part of StarHub’s long-term investment in next generation IP-based broadband services to meet the growing and changing needs of Singapore’s fast-expanding corporate market.
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