REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT - news) today
announced it is extending K56Flex technology to all U.S. members of MSN(TM), The Microsoft
Network Internet online service, in conjunction with UUNET Technologies Inc., a U.S. access
supplier for MSN. This expansion will provide members of MSN with the convenience and speed
of nationwide K56Flex access.
Deployment of the 56Kbps technology began today, and all MSN service areas are scheduled to
have 56Kbps access over the next several weeks. 56Kbps modems allow members of MSN to
access the network at near-ISDN download speeds without the inconvenience or high costs
involved with installing ISDN lines. There is no additional charge to members of MSN for the
56Kbps service.
''By offering the speed and convenience of K56Flex technology nationwide, MSN is once again
helping members get things done faster online,'' said Laura Jennings, vice president, The Microsoft
Network.
MSN recently finished a successful field trial of K56Flex access technology in seven U.S. cities,
including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, New York, Washington and Seattle.
According to Tom Blank, director of access services, The Microsoft Network, the K56Flex field
trial produced invaluable feedback from customers, which helped to make the current 56Kbps
offering more robust and stable.
''We'd like to thank all the members of MSN who participated in our 56Kbps field trial,'' said
Blank. ''Without their responses, this expansion would not have been possible.''
Access Expansion Update
In August, MSN announced a major modem capacity increase that provides more than 60
additional U.S. cities with new local dial-up numbers for members of MSN. Currently, access has
been increased by more than 350 percent in 1997. At least one local phone number in each MSN
service area is scheduled to be devoted to K56Flex technology. MSN is dedicated to supporting an
industry-standard 56Kbps technology when one has been reached.
For Interested Members of MSN
Taking advantage of MSN 56Kbps access is simple. Members of MSN must have a qualified
K56Flex modem (available at most computer retailers) and configure their Internet dialer with the
appropriate MSN dial-up number.
Background on The Microsoft Network
The Microsoft Network of online services makes it easy for consumers to harness the power of the
Internet to lead more informed, more fun and more productive lives. MSN combines a
comprehensive set of core Internet services, including e-mail, online forums and communities, and
content and services programming, with direct access to leading Microsoft(R) sites for news, travel,
investment, car buying, games and entertainment. Specific programming and services available on
MSN include the Microsoft Encarta(R) multimedia encyclopedia, the Expedia(TM) travel service,
Disney's Daily Blast(SM) and Family.com(SM), the Slate(TM) online magazine, the CarPoint(TM)
online automotive service, the Microsoft Investor online investing service, and up-to-date news and
information from MSNBC News. The MSN home page can be reached at msn.com.
Additional press information is available at press.msn.com.
Users can visit the MSN home page at msn.com to order MSN 2.5, the upcoming release of
The Microsoft Network. Users with the Microsoft Windows(R) 95 operating system and a modem
can try MSN version 2.5 with a free* one-month trial by calling 800-FREE-MSN (373-3676) and
requesting a CD.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The
company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed
with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full
power of personal computing every day.
*MSN offer: For users of the Windows 95 operating system only. One-month free unlimited trial is
available to new members of MSN in the 50 United States, the District of Columbia or Canada
only. A credit card is required. MSN premium charges, access charges (if access is purchased from
a provider other than MSN) and local phone and/or long-distance toll charges may apply. Access
availability may be affected by local market network activity and capacity. Offer expires Dec. 31,
1998.
NOTE: Microsoft, MSN, Encarta, Expedia, Slate, CarPoint and Windows are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. Daily
Blast and Family.com are service marks of Disney Online. Other product and company names
herein may be trademarks of their respective owners. The Microsoft Network is operated by
Microsoft Corp. on behalf of Microsoft Network LLC. |
