XO expands Ethernet over copper, VPLS

Service provider XO Communications has started offering a new, extended-reach Ethernet over copper service to its business customers. Based on Hatteras Networks technology, the service is targeted at business users within 11,000 feet of a point of presence or collocation spot, and it is being offered at speeds ranging from 20 Mbps to 70 Mbps in 10 Mbps increments, as well as 200 Mbps and 500 Mbps offerings.

The carrier also said it is upgrading its network to support virtual private LAN service to deliver Ethernet within service classes, probably by sometime next year. Ethernet over copper technology has been around a long time, and VPLS support is a more recent goal of service providers, but both moves show how carriers in the ultra-competitive Ethernet market need to look at new ways of extending services, increasing service variety and improving service quality in order to differentiate themselves.

For more:
- check out this coverage at Telephony

Related articles:
XO counts Speakeasy among its Ethernet over copper resellers. XO report
Hatteras Networks talked up new carrier deals at NXTcomm. Hatteras report