Nokia Siemens Networks to power Fastweb’s new MVNO activities

Fastweb, the Italian fixed network operator, has selected Nokia Siemens Networks as a technological partner when it launches mobile services later this year.

Italy’s largest alternative broadband provider will start complementary wireless services as it becomes a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), using Nokia Siemens Networks solutions for an effective rollout of the new service. This will provide Fastweb with a suite of convergent core network products and network implementation services to facilitate the launch of mobile data services and resolve potential bandwidth issues.

Fastweb is a pioneer of the “all-IP” network, offering convergent Internet access for voice, data and video services to its residential and business customers. Fastweb’s entry into the MVNO space is based on the recent agreement signed with 3Italia, Hutchinson Whampoa Group, which will allow the company to offer mobile services (voice, data, video) with a separate prefix (373).

Fastweb, currently serving 1.3 mln fixed network customers in Italy, will integrate the new mobile network with its broadband platform.

Nokia Siemens Networks will deliver the network control solution, featuring its Intelligent Service Node (Flexi ISN), during the first quarter of 2008, ensuring that the whole system be in place for the MVNO service launch, scheduled for the second half of the year.