DSL.net Issues Statement on FCC Rule Changes

Business Wire, Feb 20, 2003

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

NEW HAVEN, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 20, 2003

DSL.net, Inc. (NASDAQ: DSLN), a leading nationwide provider of broadband communications services to businesses, today issued the following statement regarding Federal Communications Commission rule changes on access to incumbent carriers' networks:

"We have not seen anything in today's FCC ruling that we believe will have any adverse impact on current DSL.net operations or its business model. DSL.net is a facilities-based provider and essentially uses the copper facilities of incumbent carriers to provide its high-speed Internet services to businesses. The FCC affirmed the availability of those portions of network elements that DSL.net uses to service its customers today. We remain optimistic that the FCC will support an overall regulatory framework that encourages competition and provides choice for consumers and businesses."

About DSL.net

Based in New Haven, Conn., DSL.net, Inc. combines its own DSL facilities, nationwide network infrastructure, and Tier I Internet Service Provider (ISP) capabilities to provide high-speed Internet access and value-added services directly to small- and medium-sized businesses throughout the United States. A certified CLEC in all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, DSL.net sells to businesses, primarily through its own direct sales channel. DSL.net augments its direct sales strategy through select system integrators, application service providers and marketing partners. In addition to a number of high-performance, high-speed Internet connectivity solutions specifically designed for businesses, DSL.net product offerings include Web hosting, DNS management, enhanced e-mail, online data backup and recovery services, firewalls, virtual private networks and nationwide dial-up services. For more information on DSL.net, visit www.dsl.net, e-mail info@dsl.net, or call 1-877-DSL-NET1 (1-877- 375-6381).

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond DSL.net's control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements. In particular, the risks and uncertainties include, among other things, regulatory, legislative and judicial developments, all of which could adversely affect the way DSL.net operates its business. Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. DSL.net undertakes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise. For additional information regarding these and other risks faced by DSL.net, see the disclosure contained under "Risk Factors" in DSL.net's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

DSL.net is a trademark of DSL.net, Inc. Other company names may be trademarks of their respective owners.