Taiwan’s First International Telecom Deploys Starent Networks’ Solution for its WiMAX Network

Starent Networks, Corp. announced First International Telecom (Fitel), a telecom operator in Taiwan, has deployed Starent Networks’ solutions to enable high-bandwidth, multimedia services through its mobile WiMAX network.

Fitel provides mobile communications services through its network to more than one million subscribers. In 2007, Fitel acquired spectrum for a WiMAX network in Northern Taiwan, which allows it to expand mobile services and introduce high-bandwidth connectivity. The company is deploying Starent Networks’ ST16 multimedia core platform, for Access Service Network (ASN) Gateway and Home Agent functionality, in its WiMAX network. Additionally, Fitel is using the ST16 for lawful intercept as well as its In-line Services capability to deploy peer-to-peer protocol detection.

“There is growing demand for rich multimedia services throughout Taiwan,” said Charlie Wu, Chairman of Fitel. “To this end, we are partnering with the world’s leading WiMAX network solution providers to deliver high speed data applications with the quality our customers expect.”

“The global WiMAX ecosystem is expanding, and the expectation is for intelligent solutions that will enhance the delivery of wireless broadband services to consumers and enterprises alike,” said Ashraf Dahod, CEO of Starent Networks. “Taiwan is taking a leadership position in the roll out of WiMAX technology, and we are pleased to partner with Fitel in launching broadband wireless services in this region.”

The Fitel deployment is part of the M-Taiwan project. The M-Taiwan project is a government initiative to accelerate WiMAX ecosystem development and create a city-wide broadband network to support wireless broadband services. Fitel plans to complete initial deployment and start testing the WiMAX network in downtown Taipei by the first half of 2008.