Verizon rolling out Wi-Fi services

Verizon Communications has started offering wireless LAN service to small businesses and plans to eventually launch the service nationally. Using 802.11b equipment, Verizon is installing and maintaining the networks in business offices, either selling the networks independently or integrated with T1, ATM and frame relay services.

Verizon officials said the move is an effort to provide more value with its transport services, helping Verizon customers expand their network capabilities without seeking out another service provider. “We’re making transport services more sticky,” said Brian Whitton, executive director of network platform evolution.

While the service is now only offered in Boston, Verizon plans to expand the service nationwide, though it has set no timetable for doing so. Verizon is also considering building hotspot services in its networks giving its corporate customers greater mobility, but it hasn’t settled on a business case yet.

“Hotspot is growing, and we’re looking at it seriously in Verizon,” Whitton said. “During the next 12 months we’ll see that shake out.” -- Lynnette Luna and Kevin Fitchard