Windstream expands availability of next-generation business data services to rural America

Windstream (NYSE: WIN) announced today that the company will expand its portfolio of next-generation business data services into more than 600 additional rural markets in its service area. These services include advanced Ethernet Internet Access and Virtual Private Networking capabilities delivering higher performance, reliability, as well as flexible service options to nearly all Windstream business customers.

Unlike cable modems, Ethernet Internet Access uses next-generation Ethernet technology to provide the reliability, security and predictable performance of a dedicated Internet connection for a fraction of the cost of traditional access solutions, such as T-1 circuits. Also unlike conventional cable access solutions, Internet bandwidth is dedicated to the customer and not shared, allowing it to provide consistent performance for businesses that need to transfer large data files or critical documents. Businesses today can take advantage of Ethernet capabilities to reduce their equipment costs and use the symmetrical upload/download speeds for mission critical network and business applications. The service is available in speeds ranging from 3 Mbps to 10 Mbps in most markets to accommodate businesses of all sizes.

"Building meaningful relationships with our business customers while providing them with dependable and advanced data services is our ultimate goal,” said Windstream Vice President of Product Marketing Don Perkins. "We’re excited to expand the availability of this next-generation network technology to an even broader customer base."

Windstream customers also can bundle Ethernet Internet Access with other business solutions including ConnectStream Virtual LAN Service (VLS) and ConnectStream Virtual Private Network (VPN). These products enable customers to connect multiple branch offices and remote locations together using Windstream’s privately managed backbone. Business customers can also add network protection with ConnectStream Secure, Windstream’s affordable managed security solution. This product manages customers’ network security, protecting business critical data from malicious Internet attacks.

For more information on Windstream’s Ethernet Internet Access, or other next-generation business solutions, visit www.windstream.com.

About Windstream

Windstream Corporation is an S&P 500 company that provides phone, high-speed Internet and high-definition digital TV services to customers in 16 states. The company also offers a wide range of IP-based voice and data services and advanced phone systems and equipment to businesses and government agencies. The company has approximately 3 million access lines and about $3.1 billion in annual revenues. Windstream is ranked 4th in the 2009 BusinessWeek 50 ranking of the best performing U.S. companies. For more information about Windstream, visit www.windstream.com.