Ericsson and Cisco Transform Korek Telecom’s core IP network

• Korek Telecom has selected Ericsson and Cisco to transform its IP core network, leveraging the strategic partnership between the two vendors
• Ericsson and Cisco will deploy new IP core network sites and optimize existing ones by means of integrated solutions based on Ericsson services and Cisco ASR 9000 routers
• Korek Telecom subscribers will benefit from broader coverage and an enhanced user experience

Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC, news, filings), the main supplier of Korek Telecom, has been selected with its strategic partner Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), to transform the Iraqi operator’s IP core network. The two vendors will use their integrated solutions to deploy new sites and optimize existing ones, as part of the Ericsson Evolved IP Network.

The network modernization project will be backed by Ericsson’s services organization and will see the deployment of Cisco’s market-leading ASR 9000 routers. Upon completion, Korek Telecom will be able to better serve its subscribers with broader coverage and an enhanced user experience.

Muhsin Akrawi, CTIO, Korek Telecom, says: “We are pleased to once again sign with Ericsson in partnership with Cisco to transform our IP core network. Working with Ericsson, the deployment of Cisco’s most powerful routers for the telecom enterprise domain will be smooth and efficient.”

The strategic partnership between Ericsson and Cisco has proven very successful and has helped the two vendors win contracts for reliable mobile network infrastructure with scalable and high capacity.

Mike Weston, Vice President, Cisco Middle East, says: “Joining forces with a partner like Ericsson enables us to create more attractive offerings that significantly improve customer service and user experience, adding tangible value to service providers and driving a positive impact on their bottom lines. This collaboration demonstrates how our global partnership is delivering on the promise of creating the networks of the future that drive growth and differentiation for our customers.”

The long-standing business relationship between Ericsson and Korek Telekom also played an important role in this case.

Mohamad Dergham, Head of Ericsson North Middle East says: “This brings the best of the Ericsson-Cisco partnership to our work with Korek Telecom. Transforming the core network will allow quick wins on network quality and reach, as well as lay the foundation for next-generation functionality.”

The Ericsson Evolved IP Network guarantees end-to-end IP network performance and quality of service, enabling operators to take full advantage of what IP based products can offer in terms of functionality and cost of ownership.

About the Ericsson and Cisco strategic partnership

Ericsson and Cisco – two industry leaders in the development and delivery of networking, mobility, and cloud – formed a global business and technology partnership in November 2015 to create the networks of the future. The partnership offers customers the best of both companies: routing, data center, networking, cloud, mobility, management and control, and global services capabilities. The next-generation strategic partnership will drive growth, accelerate innovation, and speed digital transformation demanded by customers across industries. To date, over 300 active customer engagements have now started to turn into won deals. More than 100 deals, spread around the world, are in IP (routing and transport) and services. The companies announced deals with 3 Italy, Vodafone Portugal, Aster Dominican Republic and Cable & Wireless in Caribbean in 2016 as well as with Telefonica Guatemala and Vodafone Hutchison Australia this year.

Ericsson at Mobile World Congress 2017

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Ericsson is a world leader in communications technology and services with headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden. Our organization consists of more than 111,000 experts who have provided customers in 180 countries with innovative solutions and services. Together we are building a more connected future where anyone and any industry is empowered to reach their full potential. Net sales in 2016 were SEK 222.6 billion (USD 24.5 billion). Ericsson is listed on NASDAQ OMX stock exchange in Stockholm and the NASDAQ in New York. Read more on www.ericsson.com.