Qwest Communications International Inc. (Denver, CO) intends to deploy a nationwide Internet

Qwest Communications International Inc. (Denver, CO) intends to deploy a nationwide Internet Protocol (IP) network. The planned OC-48 (2.5-Gbit/sec) network is scheduled for activation this month and will offer new IP services, including high-speed Internet access, IP-based virtual private network (VPN) services, and an expansion of the company`s Q.Talk voice-over-IP network service. Qwest is also entering the Web hosting business and will establish 10 major "CyberCenters" for customer-hosted applications. By the end of 1998, centers are planned in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington, DC. The remaining centers in Seattle, Dallas, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta, and Miami are scheduled to open in 1999. Qwest also announced the acquisition of Icon CMT Corp. (Weehawken, NJ), an integrated Web solutions provider, in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $185 million. This acquisition is expected to support Qwest`s entry into the Web hosting and enabling market.