KPN selects Alcatel-Lucent as lead network integrator for advanced IP Centrex / VOIP Services for business markets

Dutch telecom operator KPN has selected Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU)as lead network integrator to design, deliver, install, integrate and maintain an end-to-end multi-vendor IP Centrex solution. The Advanced Hosted VoIP solution is part of KPN’s All-IP strategy, which aims at building a next generation network based on IP technology. The network enables KPN to offer hosted communication services for the small and medium enterprise (SME) market and to deliver a wide variety of new communication services to both consumers and businesses.

The IP Centrex solution Alcatel-Lucent will deploy, is a multi vendor application and includes products from Broadsoft, Atreus and Comptel. Alcatel-Lucent will integrate these products on the IMS Core it is currently deploying at KPN. In addition, Alcatel-Lucent will provide design services, network integration, project management and installation and testing services. Alcatel-Lucent was selected after it and KPN concluded a successful pilot.

With the new solution KPN will be able to expand its business communications portfolio by introducing hosted Voice over IP and virtual PBX offerings to the SME and SOHO market. IP Centrex offers a low cost solution to businesses that need to replace their end-of-life PBX systems. In addition it offers innovative IP-based applications to these customers and offers a long term alternative for customers wanting to migrate from their existing ISDN based network to a fully IP based environment.

“Offering new IP-based services to our customers is key in KPN’s strategy for the future. Our new All-IP network integration services, will enable us to deliver on this strategy,” said Louis Rustenhoven, vice president Voice of KPN. “This new project specifically aims at small and medium businesses and the SOHO market that want to switch from traditional PBX telephony to advanced hosted IP communications.”

“With this contract Alcatel-Lucent underlines its capabilities in multi-vendor deployments and network integration,” said Christian Reinaudo, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s Europe and North activities. “KPN is at the forefront of IP technology with a full transition of its network. We are proud to be able to contribute to this transition, which enables KPN to deliver a wide variety of new compelling services to businesses and consumers.”