Windstream to offer Managed WiFi, aligning with recent E-Rate Modernization Order
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Windstream (NYSE:WIN, news, filings), a leading provider of advanced network and cloud communications, is now offering its Managed WiFi solution to E-Rate eligible K-12 schools and public libraries.
This new option for E-Rate participants comes on the heels of the E-Rate Modernization Order, recently issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC.) The order expands funding for broadband and WiFi solutions, in an effort to close the connectivity gap that many schools and libraries face today. The FCC will be allocating $2 billion over the next two years, allowing E-Rate program participants to install and manage campus-wide WiFi networks. In order to meet the rapidly changing needs and budgets of today’s K-12 schools, Windstream has packaged its Managed WiFi solution specifically for those taking advantage of E-Rate funding.
“Windstream has a deep, successful history in the E-Rate program, built on our ‘smart solutions, personalized service’ brand promise,” said Joseph Harding, executive vice president and enterprise chief marketing officer for Windstream. “Our Managed WiFi solution creates a secure and reliable network for K-12 schools and libraries as they adapt to the changing technology needs of today’s students. Additionally, our expert E-Rate team has been in place since the program’s inception in 1997, helping our customers maximize funding and better understand the overall process – all with the ultimate goal of helping schools advance 21st century learning.”
Managed WiFi is an IP-based solution that enables authorized computers and devices to connect to the Internet and communicate with one another wirelessly within a defined geographic area. Since launching Managed WiFi in 2007, Windstream has designed and installed customized solutions for hundreds of enterprise customers. With the majority of its Managed WiFi customers in the hospitality industry, covering almost 100,000 individual hotel rooms, Windstream’s expansion of this customized solution to K-12 schools and libraries ensures that students, teachers and administrators are provided with constant connectivity regardless of their location on campus.
In order to take advantage of E-Rate funding for Managed WiFi and other solutions, schools and libraries must meet the upcoming Form 470 application deadline of February 26, followed shortly after by the Form 471 deadline of March 26. More on Windstream’s solutions for E-Rate applicants—from service options to important program deadlines—can be found online at windstreambusiness.com.
About Windstream
Windstream, a FORTUNE 500 and S&P 500 company, is a leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions, including cloud computing and managed services, to businesses nationwide. The company also offers broadband, phone and digital TV services to consumers primarily in rural areas. For more information, visit the company’s online newsroom at news.windstream.com or follow on Twitter at @WindstreamNews.
Media Contact:
Tanja Jameson, 501-748-7236
tanja.jameson@windstream.com
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