@Link Networks Launches Next-Generation Broadband Services in Detroit Area; Integrated Communications Provider Continues Aggressive Network Rollout.

Business/Telecommunications Editors

DETROIT--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 10, 2000

Integrated communications provider @Link Networks, Inc. today launched its high-speed integrated communications services in the Detroit area, as part of an aggressive deployment schedule that includes launches in 41 markets across the middle third of the country this year en route to an ultimate nationwide presence. @Link enters Detroit and its surrounding markets -- including Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Jackson and Adrian - with a next-generation, private broadband network that provides small- to medium-sized businesses with secure, high-speed private networks and other connectivity and application solutions via access technologies such as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL).

"Cost-effective, cutting-edge communications technology is now available in the Motor City," said Paul Osland, @Link's Midwest region president. "Our private network solutions allow businesses to build completely secure, high speed networks across multiple locations, or even among trade partners. Simply put, our technology will allow Detroit-area companies to achieve the connectivity they need to compete effectively in the digital economy."

By nature of its next-generation network, @Link can provide small- to medium-sized business customers a combination of bandwidth, customizability, reliability and security that previously was cost-prohibitive to all but the largest of companies.

"What makes the @Link experience different is that we can provide business customers with guaranteed levels of performance that ensure they will receive the bandwidth they need, customized by factors such as how many locations and people are on their network, what applications they run and when, and how critical those applications are to the profitability of their business," said Osland. "And we are putting the people and processes in place to deliver a customer service experience that is unparalleled in this industry."

Employing a locally-based sales team, @Link will target the huge number of small-to medium-sized businesses currently growing throughout Detroit and the surrounding areas. By directly dealing with its customers -- rather than solely through third-party resellers -- @Link will be able to ensure optimum levels of customer service in support of its performance guarantees.

@Link's deployment plan includes servicing markets in 14 states by the end of 2000. Other states in which @Link will deploy its technology in the near future include Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska and Texas. @Link recently launched services in Indianapolis, Chicago and Milwaukee, and has targeted the Cleveland area as the site of the next network deployment.

About @Link Networks

@Link Networks, formerly Dakota Services, was founded in 1997 and specializes in broadband data and communications solutions for small- and medium-sized businesses. @Link is a leading provider of secure, high-speed private network solutions and other data and communications services including video and, soon, voice, via access technologies such as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL). @Link is building a next-generation packet-switched network utilizing an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) backbone and advanced switching capabilities that enables the company to offer its business customers extensive Quality of Service and Class of Service capabilities, including highly customized broadband solutions and iron-clad service level agreements and performance guarantees. @Link serves customers in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin and will serve markets in 14 more states by the end of 2000.