Windstream Invests in $20M in Fiber Network

Windstream announced last week that it plans to invest approximately $20 million to expand its core and backhaul fiber network. The rural carrier says that its network will deliver more bandwidth to wireless carriers, and Ethernet and next-generation technologies to business customers.

“Wireless carrier needs for more bandwidth are growing dramatically due to the explosion of data and multimedia devices,” said James Taylor, Windstream director of wholesale business solutions. “Our fiber-to-the-cell site program will allow for faster data speeds and enhance overall reliability.”

Indeed, this fiber expansion will enable wireless carriers to offer next-generation services and meet the increased data needs of their customers. The fiber will allow for 3G and 4G technology, and will meet an ever-increasing demand for bandwidth that is difficult to achieve when using traditional copper-based lines.

Windstream is following the lead of CenturyLink, AT&T, Verizon and Qwest which have all entered the emerging wireless backhaul market. NTCA also outlined this business opportunity in a recent ePaper.

Windstream offers voice, broadband and HD video systems across 16 states, largely in rural areas. The company has approximately 3 million access lines and about $3.1 billion in annual revenue.

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3. Windstream to Acquire Iowa Telecom
4. Windstream Launches ‘Lifetime Price’ on Data/Voice
5. Zayo Partners with 10 Independent Telcos for Colorado Fiber Network