Work completed on advanced IP network backbone

Etisalat has successfully completed the next-generation Internet Protocol (IP) backbone network, a senior official confirmed.

The implementation of the multi-million dirham network with routers supplied by U.S. network service provider, Juniper Networks, began in mid-2001.

The M160 routers were installed in points-of-presence throughout the UAE, enabling Etisalat to offer broadband Internet services nation-wide. "The IP roll-out has been completed. Basically, this means speedier and efficient IP services," the official told Gulf News yesterday.

Abu Dhabi-based Alpha Data will provide the required technical support for operating the IP technology.

Alpha Data is the authorised distribution partner of Juniper Networks. This is the first contract in the Gulf for California-based Juniper Networks.

Juniper had embarked on a phased approach in its network deployment. Juniper Networks commands 40 per cent of the $6 billion global market for the next generation IP networks.

Some 65 per cent of the company's sales are in the U.S. and the rest is in Europe and the Far East.