AT&T Launches U-Verse for Small Businesses

AT&T Inc. today launched an Internet package for SMBs as telcos try to keep pace with cablecos such as Comcast Corp, which increasingly are focusing on commercial customers.

The service, Business U-verse, supports Internet access of up to 10mbps and unlimited access to AT&T’s Wi-Fi network.

Business U-verse uses the carrier’s U-verse platform and boosts speeds from the previously highest speed of 6mbps downstream. AT&T did not disclose upload speeds.

Unlike recent offers by Comcast, Business U-verse does not include a TV element. On the flip side, AT&T’s package uses something cablecos don’t have: a broad wireless network. Business U-Verse provides free unlimited access to a network made up of more than 17,000 Wi-Fi hot spots, according to AT&T.

Business U-Verse offers subscribers virtually unlimited e-mail storage and online protection packages, including antispyware, antivirus, pop-up blocker and SpamGuard Plus. AT&T is waiving its $95 installation fee for Business U-verse. The wireless-enabled equipment also comes with four Ethernet ports, a USB port for direct connection and AT&T's two-tier firewall.

Among the markets with AT&T Business U-verse availability are portions of southern and central California, as well as several markets in the Midwest, southwest and on the East Coast.

AT&T said it plans to offer the package in more markets in its 22-state service area at an as-yet unspecified time.

AT&T offers several tiers for AT&T Business U-Verse. Costs range from $40 to $100 per month depending on the downstream speed.

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