Ericsson to Supply Telephony Softswitch Solution to Algérie Télécom

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has been selected by leading operator Algérie Télécom as sole supplier and systems integrator for its network upgrade. The move sets the stage for Algérie Télécom to migrate to an all-IP network.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will supply its Telephony Softswitch solution to migrate the operator's national transit layer to a next-generation network architecture. Ericsson will also be responsible for network deployment, support, and training services. Deployment and systems integration will start in November, with the migration set to be completed by mid-2008.

Ericsson's Telephony Softswitch solution provides a simplified network architecture that enables the evolution towards an all-IP network by delivering full telephony services over IP infrastructure.

The deal builds upon Ericsson's 30-year relationship with Algérie Télécom and will evolve the operator's circuit-switched network to a multi-service network, allowing it to cost-effectively increase network speed, quality and capacity, and introduce high-speed broadband services to its 3.5 million subscribers.

Slimane Khireddine, Chief Executive Officer at Algérie Télécom, says: "This deal paves the way for the modernization of our network, a move that will cement our market-leading position while preparing us for the introduction of innovative multimedia services. By partnering with Ericsson, we can leverage our existing infrastructure and make our network future-proof."

Johan Lallerstedt, Head of Ericsson Northern Africa, says: "We are delighted to build on our long-term relationship with Algérie Télécom and provide them with a solution that can ensure a secure migration path, enabling the integration of traditional telephony with IP- based broadband traffic over a single network."

The deal follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Ericsson and Algérie Télécom to secure and modernize the operator's network.

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.