Juniper Networks, the fixed-line router giant that recently jumped into the wireless packet core market by declaring it has developed its own solution, got its foot into the wireless industry's door through a router deal with Allied Wireless Communications Corp. (AWCC), a former Alltel business that Verizon Wireless is selling.
AWCC has contracted for Juniper's new MX 3D Series Universal Edge Routers for Internet offload of traffic, a product Juniper introduced during the CTIA Wireless 2010 trade show late last month. The solution diverts bulk data traffic to the Internet to assist with wireless network congestion. The routers are also the basis of Juniper's evolved packet core (EPC) solution, but both companies aren't saying whether the deal will eventually lead to an EPC deal.
ACC offers service in six states using Alltel's former assets. As a condition of its acquisition of Alltel, Verizon wireless was forced to sell those assets. Atlantic Tele-Network is buying those assets for $200 million and is awaiting approval of the FCC.
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