MWeb signs agreement with Level 3 Communications

Level 3 offers a comprehensive suite of data, voice, video and managed services leveraging a reliable, secure global network. It operates one of the world's largest IP networks, a continuously upgradable platform, reaching more than 45 countries.

As a result of the agreement, Level 3 CDN customers in the US, Europe and Latin America will have access to a new broadband market in South Africa. In addition, South African content providers will have the option to distribute their content across Level 3's international networks.

Breadth of content services will be enhanced

Francois Theron, MWEB CEO, says this agreement will leverage the respective strengths of each company in content and media delivery, as well as quality Internet networks. This will significantly enhance the breadth of content services and connectivity speeds available to customers connecting to and from South Africa.

"MWEB's agreement with Level 3 is a very efficient way to get the content on the Level 3 network into South Africa and we plan to make that same content available to all our peering partners. Besides the benefit to South African Internet consumers, this new channel will open up a pipe for local content producers to expand internationally," says Theron.

"MWEB is one of a few ISPs that has access to international connectivity on both coasts of Africa, linked together by a very large terrestrial network in South Africa," Theron continued. "Our relationship with Level 3 will allow us to enhance the reliable, high-quality global connectivity and comprehensive Internet solutions our customers increasingly demand, with the unique benefit of access to a redundant and scalable IP network."

Connectivity will expand offerings

James Heard, regional president of EMEA for Level 3 added: "Leveraging MWEB connectivity in South Africa, combined with the broad reach of Level 3's international IP and CDN networks, will allow us to expand our offerings to new and existing customers around the world. We have worked hard over the years to build out our international connectivity, and this agreement with MWEB is an important next step in expanding that connectivity even further into a region where we see a lot of potential for growth."

Level 3 has a strong history of commitment to global service providers. Through its existing Points of Presence (PoP) sites in Marseille and more than 400 other PoP locations across Europe, the company allows for greater connectivity to the Middle East and Africa as well as more reliable and scalable IP network services.