FX Networks wins KAREN
From December 2010 FX Networks will provide the nationalnetwork for the KAREN (Kiwi Advanced Research and Education Network). Accordingto a statement announcing the deal, “the arrangement secures the continuationof KAREN’s existing 10Gbps backbone connectivity and footprint around thecountry for an initial term of three years through to December 2010, with twotwo-year renewal options”.
The network was established in 2006 with a government grantof $43 million. TelstraClear won the initial contract to supply the network,routers and switches, and first level help desk and network management services.It was put up for renewal in November last year, with RFP documents showing ithad been split into three distinct parts. KAREN has 70 members and connects 120sites with monthly traffic across all ports of 1-3 petabytes.
Donald Clark, CEO of the network REANNZ which is responsiblefor KAREN, says the new contract includes options to move to a dark fibre basednetwork.
“This is the most excitingdevelopment for KAREN since the network was launched in 2006. We are confidentthat we have selected a progressive, long-term partner in FX Networks and havesecured the best national connectivity options for our community and providedcertainty to our members on cost and presence,” he says.
“Over the last 4 years, thedemands of our members has driven innovation in network supply and servicesacross the telecommunications industry. In earlier times our investments havehelped other network suppliers extend their networks, now we’re helping FXNetworks.”
Meanwhile an announcement on a separate contractfor international connectivity, which has a maximum budget of $16 million, isdue later this month.
