Thus signs IP network enhancement deal with Cisco

Scottish alternative telco Thus has contracted Cisco Systems for the delivery of an IP platform to enhance its national IP network. The new infrastructure will support services using multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) and virtual private network (VPN) technologies and will give Thus the capacity to deliver converged voice, data and video services. The network upgrade is a key factor in Thus’ e-security strategy, as greater capacity and flexibility will increase its ability to deal with issues such as service attacks and viruses; the company has pointed out that according to the 2002 DTI Information Security Breaches survey, 78% of large businesses questioned fell victim to e-security breaches in 2001, with serious incidents costing an average of GBP30,000 to rectify. The network enhancements will be based on Cisco 12000 and Cisco 10000 Series routers. The value of the deal was not disclosed.