Covad Presents a Bill of Rights for Broadband Internet Users; Bill of Rights Celebrates Consumers' Rights in FCC Line Sharing Ruling

Cambridge Telcom Report, Nov 22, 1999

Covad Communications, the leading national broadband services provider utilizing DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), Thursday unveiled a Bill of Rights that supports the rights of broadband Internet consumers' who have been affected by the monopoly practices of the phone companies. The Bill of Rights is in celebration of the favorable FCC line sharing ruling that was announced Thursday and reflects the newly gained consumer rights.

"The broadband rights of consumers have been validated by the FCC's ruling for line sharing," said Dhruv Khanna, a Covad founder, executive vice president and general counsel. "This is all about embracing choice, and will be a winning scenario for both consumers and the phone companies. As the phone companies open up their networks for broadband choice, they will improve their chances to offer long distance services in their territories - a win-win for all."

The Broadband Internet User Bill of Rights is as follows: -- I have the right to a fast, always-on Internet connection

-- I have the right to experience the benefits of competition and be free of phone company monopolies

-- I have the right to hassle-free installation of my broadband service without paying and waiting for the installation of a second line if I don't want one

-- I have the right to easily place my broadband access order using the Web

-- I have the right to choose the broadband service that is best for me, my business and my family

-- I have the right to a competitive price and service quality for Internet access

Covad Communications is the leading national broadband services provider of high-speed Internet and network access utilizing DSL (Digital Subscriber Line). It offers DSL services through Internet Service Providers to small and medium-sized businesses and home users. Covad services are currently available across the United States in 51 of the top Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) and will be available in 100 MSAs by the end of 2000. At that time, Covad's network will reach more than 40 percent of all US homes and 45 percent of all US businesses. Covad Communications and its affiliates, doing business as Covad Communications Company, are wholly owned subsidiaries of Covad Communications Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: COVD). Corporate headquarters is located in Santa Clara, CA. FMI: www.covad.com.