Sonera chooses Cisco for next-gen Ethernet broadband network

--Metro Ethernet network to deliver high-speed broadband
access to consumers in Helsinki

24 September 2002 -- Sonera, a Finnish provider of mobile and telecommunications services, is deploying a combination of Cisco Catalyst 2950 switches and metropolitan
optical fibre to provide next-generation Ethernet-based broadband.

Initially, 15,000 existing residential customers in the apartments of the Helsinki Area Student Villages (HOAS) will be able to receive high speed Internet access via 10/100 Ethernet ports so that each user will have a capacity of 256kbit/s. This initial network will provide a foundation to address Helsinki's increasing demand for high speed Internet access.

The Cisco technology will help provide Ethernet access through an optical fibre network running right to the basement of apartment blocks. Subscribers will be able to access the service using a simple Ethernet socket in the apartment together with a network card, which will eliminate the need for a modem.

"The combination of Ethernet, optical fibre and IP provides Sonera with a solid foundation for future offering of services such as voice over IP and video on demand down the line," said Mr. Jari Hakalin, Director, for Sonera.

Sonera is deploying Cisco Catalyst 2950 switches in the basement of apartment blocks and Points of Presence (PoPs) to effectively provide local area network access for subscribers. Sonera will take advantage of its existing investment in optical fiber, together with existing category 5 in-building cabling to deliver these services to end customers.

"Sonera has recognised the advanced nature of the broadband market in Finland, and is providing consumers with residential Ethernet-based broadband connectivity which can scale to 10 or 100 Mbps access speeds for a compelling price," said Mark de Simone, VP technology & solutions marketing for Cisco in EMEA.

"Many European providers are recognising that the
next-generation Ethernet broadband model now makes rolling out advanced broadband services to consumers and businesses a viable prospect."

Sonera Corporation is a leading provider of mobile and advanced telecommunications services. Sonera is growing as an operator,
as well as a provider of transaction and content services in Finland and in selected international markets. The company also offers advanced data solutions to businesses, and fixed network voice services in Finland and neighboring markets. In 2001, Sonera's revenues totaled EUR 2.2bn, and profit before extraordinary items and taxes was EUR0.45bn. Sonera employs about 7,500 people.